WHAT IS A RENOVATION CONTRACTOR?

When someone takes on contracted work to renovate buildings, they are working as a RENOVATION CONTRACTOR. Much like a general contractor who works on new buildings, a renovator will deal exclusively with existing buildings, bringing on sub trades as required to complete the project.

EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING

A skilled renovator may have the following work experience:

• 5 - 10 years in construction carpentry, especially in home building;
• A background in design or project management;
• Years of experience installing insulation, air barriers, windows and doors;
• Experience with preparing and installing finish layers like drywall, tile and trim;
• Possible certification in regulated trades like electrical or HVAC;
• Strong skills in business and construction planning.
• Working with municipal building inspectors and permit processes

WHAT DOES A RENOVATION CONTRACTOR DO?

The kinds of work that would be involved in renovation contracting might include the following:

• Inspecting buildings to assess their readiness for renovation;
• Project planning, estimating and contracts, including working with subcontractors;
• Demolition and material recycling;
• Wood framing, masonry, concrete forms and pours;
• Insulation, air barrier and vapour barrier installation;
• Installing interior doors, exterior doors and windows;
• Interior and exterior finishes and trim, including flooring, tiles, siding and cabinetry;
• Installing drainage materials, flashing and metal elements of trim and moisture management;
  
• Decks, porches and landscaping.