Rothrock Kitchen & Bath Remodeling

Ben Rothrock

Why Don’t Contractors Ever Work a Full 8-Hour Day?

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If you’ve ever hired a contractor for a home remodeling project, you might have found yourself scratching your head. The crew arrives early, gets to work, and then, around midday or early afternoon, they start wrapping up and heading out! 

“Wait a minute,” you think. “That’s not a full 8-hour day! Where are they going? Why aren’t they here from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. like I expected?”

It’s a great question—and one that many homeowners have. Contractors and their crews operate a little differently from the typical 9-to-5 schedule you’re probably used to. The reasons might surprise you, but once you understand the behind-the-scenes logistics of a remodeling project, it all makes sense.

In this article, We’ll explore the common reasons contractors don’t work a full 8-hour day on-site, address some misconceptions, and even dive into the less-talked-about pitfalls of the industry. By the end, you’ll have a new appreciation for the complexity of remodeling projects—and how to choose a contractor who will keep your project on track.

The Truth About Contractor Licenses: Are They as Important as Homeowners Think?

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You’ve probably heard it from everyone—your friends, neighbors, and even that home improvement article you found online: “Make sure your contractor is licensed and insured!” It’s practically Remodeling Rule #1, right?

But what if that shiny certificate isn’t quite the golden ticket it’s made out to be? What if a contractor’s license didn’t actually prove competence? And what if the skills needed to get a license weren’t even the qualifications your contractor truly needs for your remodeling project?

Today, we’re peeling back the curtain on this well-kept industry secret! Let’s dive into the truth behind contractor licensing, and discover when it matters—and when it’s just not the golden ticket it’s made out to be.

Is the “Zipcode Tax” Real? How to Avoid Overpaying for Remodeling Projects in Affluent Areas

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Have you ever looked at a remodeling quote and wondered, Am I paying more just because of where I live? It’s a valid concern, especially if you’re in an affluent neighborhood like Rye, Portsmouth, or New Castle, NH. Contractors sometimes get a bad rap for allegedly inflating prices in these areas, leaving homeowners wondering if they are being taken advantage of based on their ZIP code.

In this article, we’ll tackle this concern from every angle. We’ll address common fears, explain the assumptions contractors might make, and give you some insights into how you can tell if you are being charged a “Zipcode Tax.” Along the way, we’ll answer questions like:

  • Why do remodeling projects in affluent neighborhoods cost more?

  • How do contractors decide what to include in their quotes?

  • Are there legitimate reasons for cost differences between neighborhoods?

  • How can I make sure I’m not overcharged for my remodel?

By the end, you’ll feel confident in your understanding of contractor pricing—and empowered to make informed decisions for your remodel.

Hidden Costs in Kitchen & Bathroom Remodels: What Homeowners Need to Know

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Imagine this: You’ve finally made the decision to remodel your kitchen or bathroom, and after months of planning and budgeting, you’re ready to get started. You’ve hired a contractor, picked out your dream fixtures, and you’re all set. But then, the dreaded “hidden costs” start creeping in, throwing your budget into disarray. What happened? Well, that’s exactly what we’re here to unravel.

Hidden costs in a kitchen or bathroom remodel can turn an exciting project into a stressful experience. We’ve seen homeowners in the New Hampshire seacoast area get caught off guard by unexpected expenses, and it’s not uncommon. Let’s dive into the most commonly overlooked costs that could impact your remodel—and most importantly, how to prepare for them.

Tile Backsplash Installation in the New Hampshire Seacoast: What Homeowners Need to Know

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Have you been staring at your kitchen walls and wondering, “Wouldn’t it look amazing with a beautiful tile backsplash?”

Whether you’re dreaming of your first backsplash or ready to refresh a dated one, this upgrade can completely transform your kitchen. It’s like adding the perfect necklace to a little black dress—practical, protective, and downright gorgeous!

But if you’re new to the world of tile backsplashes, you probably have a lot of questions, like:

  • Can I install a backsplash in a kitchen that doesn’t have one?

  • How big a job is it to replace a tile backsplash?

  • Do I need to replace the countertops or cabinets when installing a new backsplash?

  • How much does a tile backsplash cost in New Hampshire?

  • Is my contractor installing my backsplash correctly?

  • How hard is it to DIY a tile backsplash?

Let’s take a closer look at everything you need to know about adding or replacing a tile backsplash in your kitchen. By the end, you’ll feel confident in your options and ready to take the next step toward transforming your space!

Featured Project: A Kitchen Renovation in New Hampshire that Transformed a Family’s Space

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Griffin and Lauren had been living in their charming Rochester, NH, home for eight years. Initially, they saw it as a temporary place, so they held off on making any significant updates. But as time went on, it became clear—this was the place they wanted to call home. That’s when Lauren declared, “Enough is enough—it’s time to make this kitchen my own!”

Like many homeowners in the New Hampshire seacoast, they were feeling the strain of a kitchen that didn’t quite fit their needs. Sure, it functioned, but it wasn’t the warm, inviting space they dreamed of. The dark cabinets felt heavy, the outdated laminate countertops were more of an eyesore than a feature, and storage? Let’s just say they were constantly battling to fit their growing collection of cooking gadgets.

It was time to turn their kitchen into a space they could truly enjoy—one that reflected their style and worked with their lifestyle.

What Is the Difference Between Time & Materials and Cost-Plus Contracts?

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What does cost-plus even mean? Is it just a fancy term for time & materials, or is it something entirely different? 

Navigating the world of remodeling contracts can be intimidating, especially if you’re not familiar with the industry lingo. That’s why we’re here to break down the difference between time & materials (T&M) and cost-plus contracts, so you can make an informed decision. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of how these contracts differ and when each one might be the right fit for your project.

And if you’re wondering, “Which contract type is best for my remodel?”—don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. We’ll get into that as well!

How Do I Choose the Best Kitchen Layout for My Home?

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We know firsthand that planning a kitchen remodel is both an exhilarating journey and, let’s be honest, a bit overwhelming. It’s not just about picking cabinets or countertops; it’s about designing a space that becomes the heart of your home, where meals are shared, conversations flow, and memories are made. So, how do you choose a kitchen layout that fits your space, lifestyle, and family’s needs?

In this guide, we’ll walk you through all the questions homeowners like you often ask when planning their dream kitchen. By the end, you’ll have a clearer vision of what layout makes sense for your home. Let’s dive into it!

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