A handyman is capable of repairing a wide range of items. Their skillset includes tightening loose screws, restoring squeaky furniture, and installing cabinet hardware.
Many professionals choose to become a handyman for lifestyle reasons, such as flexibility and independence. However, this business model can limit growth potential. Specializing can make it easier to increase rates and hire employees. Contact Emerald City Handyman of Naperville now!
A handyman can offer a variety of electrical services, including repairing outlets and switches, updating light fixtures, running new wires, and installing ceiling fans. They can also rewire older wiring and inspect for damaged cords. Handymen can also run tests on smoke detectors and carbon monoxide sensors, ensuring that these vital safety devices are working correctly.
When hiring a handyman to perform electrical work, it is important to understand their capabilities and limitations. Look for a professional with experience in similar projects, a history of completing quality work, and a track record of customer satisfaction. They should be able to explain the project in detail and provide an estimate that includes labor and materials. In addition, it is a good idea to check whether the handyman is licensed and insured to do the work.
Unlicensed handymen often do dangerous work, which can result in serious injuries and property damage. This is why it is important to hire a licensed and experienced professional for any electrical work at home.
Electrical wiring is a delicate and complex process that requires specialized knowledge and equipment. Even minor mistakes can lead to fires, power outages, and other serious problems. Homeowners should always verify that the handyman is bonded and insured before hiring them for any electrical work. This ensures that if there is an accident or problem with the work, they will be liable for the damages.
In addition, homeowners should also ask the handyman about their certifications and licenses before hiring them for any electrical work. Most states require a trade license to perform certain types of work, such as plumbing and electrical. Handymen should be aware of these requirements and be sure to check with their state before offering these services.
In some cases, it may be necessary to hire an electrician in addition to a handyman for a specific project. For example, if the homeowner is installing a new kitchen or bathroom, it is likely that they will need to run additional wires. In this case, it is a good idea to hire an electrician who is familiar with the local regulations and can make sure that the work is done safely.
Plumbing
A handyman’s plumbing skills can include repairing or replacing taps, fixing leaks, unblocking sinks and toilets, and installing or rerouting piping. However, more complicated fixes like removing and installing toilets or replacing hot water tanks are better left to a licensed plumber. A reliable handyman will also be familiar with local plumbing codes and regulations. This ensures any work they do is up to code, protecting your family’s health and safety.
The ability to communicate effectively is one of the most important skills handymen should possess. They should be able to explain what work is required in terms that are clear and concise, provide a quotation for the job, and complete the task within a reasonable timeframe. Handymen should also be able to provide references from previous clients that highlight their work ethic and reliability.
In addition to communication, it is also important that a handyman can assess a project and determine whether or not it requires the services of a specialist. For example, a leaking water pipe may be an easy fix for a handyman, but it will require the use of special tools that may not be available to them. A specialist plumber can assess the issue, provide the necessary tools and expertise, and repair the problem in a much quicker and more efficient manner.
Keeping up with regular maintenance is a key component to the functionality of any home or business, and plumbing is no exception. Regular checkups and careful consideration of what you put down the drain can help prevent clogs and leaks, saving on costly repairs in the future.
Handymen can provide useful assistance for a range of general household and business tasks, but it is essential to know their limitations. A reputable professional should be able to provide references from previous clients, demonstrate their knowledge of relevant codes and regulations, and be willing to engage in open and transparent communication with clients.
If you are looking for a trustworthy, knowledgeable, and experienced tradesperson to carry out your next plumbing or electrical job, AllBetter can match you with the best pros in your area. We make it easy to find qualified and licensed tradespeople, with a simple online process that takes just 10 minutes.
Carpentry
A handyman is often referred to as a “jack of all trades,” and while they may specialize in one type of work, most perform a wide range of repair and improvement tasks. Handymen are more affordable than a general contractor but more skilled than a specialist. They’re able to tackle many types of repairs and improvements that can be done on both the interior and exterior of a property.
Leaky faucets, clogged toilets, and loose cabinet knobs are all common plumbing-related issues that a handyman can help with. They have the tools and know-how to handle a variety of plumbing problems, and can also install new bathroom hardware like sinks or shower heads.
Carpentry is another skill set that handymen are often able to offer. Whether your favorite rocking chair has a persistently squeaky leg or you want to add some decorative flair to your home, handymen can handle all types of carpentry projects. They can build custom shelving that aligns with your storage needs or mount decorative fixtures like chandeliers or ceiling fans. They can even construct and install staircases or other wood furniture pieces.
Handymen are also a great asset for homeowners who are moving into a new home or need to baby proof their current space. They can install outlet covers and safety locks, and set up baby gates and other child-proofing items. They can also assist with installing appliance replacements, like replacing a fridge or dishwasher.
Drywall repair and painting is another service handymen typically offer. They can patch holes and cracks, and can also remove wallpaper. Additionally, they can apply both interior and exterior paint and stain to wood furniture, doors, decks, and other surfaces.
Lastly, many handymen can also assist with outdoor maintenance by cleaning out gutters and downspouts. This prevents water damage and keeps rainwater flowing properly away from the home.
As a small business owner, it’s important to understand the different tasks that your handyman is qualified to do and what they’re not. This will help you determine which services to advertise and promote, and also ensure that your customers are receiving the quality of work they expect. When partnering with a handyman, it’s also important to negotiate payment terms and establish milestone payments when working on larger projects.
Painting
A fresh coat of paint can breathe new life into your living spaces. Handymen can do interior and exterior painting work, reviving the look of your home and transforming your spaces with world-class techniques. Their expertise also allows them to address problems like chips, scratches, and stains in painted surfaces. They can even patch and smooth drywall, creating a perfect canvas for wall coverings and paint.
However, there are some projects that require specialized skills or tools that can’t be handled by a generalist. In these cases, they’ll refer you to a licensed professional in that field. For example, a handyman will not typically replace or install an entire shower floor. They can, however, do more minor repairs to it and redo the plumbing and joists underneath it.
Handymen typically have lower rates than a professional painting company and can handle multiple jobs in one visit. This makes them ideal for smaller, more straightforward painting tasks and projects where budget and convenience are important. However, they may lack the specialized skills and experience of a painting company for larger or more intricate projects.
While a handyman can do most painting projects, it’s generally best to hire a professional painting company for comprehensive residential painting services. This will ensure that the job is done right from start to finish. They’ll prepare surfaces, including sanding and patching, and apply primer to prevent peeling or flaking. Then, they’ll paint walls and trim, ensuring a high-quality finish. They can also do more detailed work, such as adding a faux finish or murals, that a handyman might not be skilled at. When hiring a painter, make sure to get an estimate that includes the scope of the project and the materials that will be needed. This will help you stay within your budget and ensure that the work is done on time. Also, don’t be afraid to ask the painter about their experience and if they’re licensed. This will protect you against scams.