Considering buying (inheriting) a house that needs a complete renovation. Both my partner and I are quite handy, but neither of us has any real knowledge of construction, ventilation, etc. After a lot of research, we realize that it’s not that easy to know which methods to use (e.g., there seem to be many theories about insulation) or what consequences a particular change might bring.
The house needs new roofing, facade, drainage system, windows, doors, electricity, water and sewer systems. New drainage and heating systems (probably geothermal heating). The plan is also to add insulation to the attic and (preferably outside) exterior walls. Furthermore, several interior walls will be demolished and new ones built (currently, we assume we don't need to remove any load-bearing walls), and all surfaces in the whole house need to be addressed.
Who can we seek help from to get a good, reasonable, and sound plan for how (and in what order) everything should be done? Construction engineer? Designer? KA?
We intend to hire craftsmen for tasks that we lack the knowledge and/or ability to do ourselves, but we would like help from someone who has an overall perspective and knowledge when it comes to houses. The carpenter assisting with insulation and a new facade might not necessarily know how the house's ventilation should be adjusted...
Perhaps this post is in the completely wrong section, if so, any kind soul with the appropriate permissions is welcome to move it...
The house needs new roofing, facade, drainage system, windows, doors, electricity, water and sewer systems. New drainage and heating systems (probably geothermal heating). The plan is also to add insulation to the attic and (preferably outside) exterior walls. Furthermore, several interior walls will be demolished and new ones built (currently, we assume we don't need to remove any load-bearing walls), and all surfaces in the whole house need to be addressed.
Who can we seek help from to get a good, reasonable, and sound plan for how (and in what order) everything should be done? Construction engineer? Designer? KA?
We intend to hire craftsmen for tasks that we lack the knowledge and/or ability to do ourselves, but we would like help from someone who has an overall perspective and knowledge when it comes to houses. The carpenter assisting with insulation and a new facade might not necessarily know how the house's ventilation should be adjusted...
Perhaps this post is in the completely wrong section, if so, any kind soul with the appropriate permissions is welcome to move it...
Architects are often also okay with handling the coordination of a construction project, they are accustomed to seeing the big picture, and since they are not craftsmen, they have no interest in telling you "you can't handle that, it's best to hire me for it." They are simply a more neutral party. But it somewhat depends on what kind of house it is. If it's a very old house, it might be a good idea to contact a building conservator.
Considering what you wrote, I intended to give advice from an overall perspective. But many architects, preferably slightly older ones, are also building engineers. If not, the architect can always provide tips on a suitable engineer if necessary. It's also possible that you will find a wise and sensible carpenter who can give you lots of tips and advice. On smaller projects, it's often the carpenter who coordinates since they have the most to do on the construction site (assuming a wooden house). The most important thing is that you have a solid trust in your "sounding board," then it doesn't matter what profession this person has. No profession masters all areas. We used (and still use) our carpenter. We speak the same language as him, and on a major renovation, there was only one point on which we disagreed with him. It doesn’t matter that he can’t keep the times he promised, as few craftsmen can, and it's part of the rules of the game. It's just about adapting and playing along so it works out well in the end.Aji said: