Why now is a good time to hire building help

[John Raabe]

This chart says it all. Lots of builders and construction subs are looking for work

[rwanders]

   And the availability of quality craftsmanship is better now too along with somewhat better prices!  Those with marginal skills have had to find other occupations.

[paul s]

True in many ways but still get all their licience numbers  and copies  their insurance certiicates.  You ask why, I went on a water damage job just  a week ago and an improperly installed metal roo_ "sorry that key between d and g is not working" and a real mess. insurance company is looking or the contractor and the good thing is they are covering the loss which is over $ 10,000.

[MountainDon]

Paul, I had the same f--- problem a while back on our Gateway Laptop. If it's a laptop you can swap it out yourself. I found the part and excellent service at  laptopjacks.com.  Less than $30 for the keyboard itself.

[paul s]

woowww  thanks i will put my techie son on it thanks a mint

[metolent]

I've definitely found that to be the case.  Insulation is one of the areas where it doesn't seem to pay to DIY.  I had priced everything out to get exactly what I wanted (R38-C for cathedral ceiling, R21 for walls, R38 for floor) from what seemed like every place I could find.  Total came to ~$3200 for materials only.  Then figured it would take a few days to get it in myself. 

Should be the cheapest way to go, right?  NO! 

Several quick calls to insulation contractors with bids in the $2000 range for the same materials + labor + energy seal.  I've since added the FSK paper (for under all of the ceilings which will be covered in cedar T&G) and sound insulation for all interior walls and floors and the bid is still at ~$2500.  I'll still be on site to make sure it's done to my satisfaction, but I'll be watching them get it done.