Advice on home improvements and repairs
When advice is sought on home improvements there will be a myriad of people with opinions based on no more authority than, ‘the butcher, the baker and the candlestick maker said’…..
And if they didn’t say it then it was the next door neighbour, a friend of the next door neighbour, or my friend who is….
Then there’s, ‘the salesman said!’
To begin with….your situation is likely going to require a solution specific to your aim and not some general proposition based on vague similarities.
Separate the BS – when seeking advice on home improvements
If you want to separate the thoroughbreds from the donkeys, ask them to guarantee the outcome as a result of what they are proposing…..
Don’t be surprised if you are greeted with….’oh yeah well I’m just saying’….
If the person offering the solution is not accepting responsibility for the outcome, then it’s a conversation based on conjecture and supposition.
This is not to say they are wrong but don’t presume it to be right.
You’re more likely to be left in doubt as a result of the discussion.
If you’re going to make a mistake, make it yours.
Reality – when they have the money, you’re stuck with the result
The solution is going to cost money somewhere along the line …your money..and you want it to be a once only exercise that leaves a pleasant taste in your mouth, not something that needs to be bitterly revisited.
Confidence…ask so as to learn
So be kind to yourself….when you want to know something about ….ventilation for example….don’t ask a roofer….
Sure he may know how to install, but he won’t sign on the dotted line as to the outcome….
‘We install a lot of ’em,….doesn’t guarantee your desired outcome is going to be forthcoming.
Especially as most of ’em’ are sweetener giveaways on the roofing deal.
Always look for the down side because it’s guaranteed to be there, that way you can make an informed decision.
When someone seemingly knows more than you do, doesn’t mean they know….
In this industry, the one eyed is king to the blind…
Remember….the trades are not what they used to be, and not all so called ‘professionals’ are….
A true professional is one with historical experience.
They will outline the pros and cons as they have a reputations to protect.