|
| I need to replace the header over a sliding glass window. It spans 9 feet. The header is 4x10. The trimmer and king studs need to also be replaced. I'm debating on whether to tackle this job or not. The wall is a load bearing wall that holds up one end of a cathedral ceiling. The trusses are 2x8 and are cut at the top plate. It extends outside at a width of 4in for the outlook. I have a poured concrete slab patio outside. I would build a temporary wall outside to support the roof while doing the work. I could also build a temporary wall on the inside if that is the best method.
Also, if I contract this out, is it better to just hire a general contractor. He will only be subbing out the framing. I will do the rest (drywall and siding). I could call a framer/carpenter directly, but I'm having a hard time finding one in the phone book. It seems like they all work under GC's. Can someone give me a ball park figure on the cost to contract it out? |
Follow-Up Postings:
|
| From your description, I'm thinking that you're removing a window and putting in a door that's wider than the previous window. Is there any rot? Are there any electrical lines/plumbing that'll need to be re-routed? If I understand the work, this isn't one of those rocket-science hard jobs, but if I were you, I'd want it completed quickly. That's why I'd suggest you use someone with a staff (say, 4 people minimum on the job: 2 carpenters, 1 laborer, 1 driver for materials/waste, plus maybe an electrician or plumber), rather that a one or two man carpentry outfit. That probably points to a GC. Sadly, those staff mean overhead, which means a higher cost for you, but in the big scheme of things it shouldn't be too awful. I suspect that you'll only get an accurate price when someone looks at it. |
|
| I would agree that it is not rocket science work. If you can do the siding / drywall work then it sounds like you have some skills. I would DIY. Think it through, take off the drywall so you can see everything prior to opening up to the elements, get all the material prior to starting, get a helper or two as the beam will be a handfull, and go for it. As far as hiring out the framing part of it, I think you would pay more than you think as it sounds like a pretty small job for a framer, especially with you wanting to finish it. I would think that would fall under some minimum bid thing with a big chunk of the cost going to pay for the contractor to get material |
Please Note: Only registered members are able to post messages to this forum. If you are a member, please log in. If you aren't yet a member, join now!
Return to the Home Repair Forum
Instructions
- You must be a registered member and logged in to post messages on our forums.
- Posting is a two-step process. Once you have composed your message, you will be taken to the preview page. You will then have a chance to review the contents and make changes.
- After posting your message, you may need to refresh the forum page in order to see it.
- It is illegal to post copyrighted material without the owner's consent.
- HTML codes are allowed in the message field only.
- No advertising is allowed in any of the forums.
- If you would like to practice posting or uploading photos, please visit our Test forum.
- If you need assistance, please Contact Us and we will be happy to help.