When to Hire a GC

When You Should Hire a General Contractor Instead of a Drywall Repair Company

When embarking on a home renovation or repair project, it's easy to assume that you can handle everything on your own or that a drywall repair company can take care of all the work. However, there are certain instances where you’ll need to hire a general contractor (GC) instead of relying on a drywall repair company. While drywall specialists are experts in their craft, they don’t typically offer the wide range of services that a general contractor can provide.

A general contractor can manage the bigger picture, coordinating all aspects of a renovation, including drywall installation, framing, plumbing, electrical work, and finish carpentry, like trim and molding installation. Below, we’ll cover the key situations in which a general contractor’s expertise is needed over that of a drywall repair company, including substantial wall, door, or window framing and baseboards and trim moldings installation.

1. When Substantial Wall, Door, or Window Framing is Required

While drywall repair companies are skilled at fixing and installing drywall, framing is a completely different part of construction that requires specialized knowledge and tools. Framing involves creating the structural skeleton of your walls, doors, windows, and sometimes even ceilings. This requires precise measurements and a deep understanding of building codes and structural integrity.

Here are some instances when framing would require a general contractor:

a. Building or Changing Interior Walls

If you are looking to add a new wall, whether it’s a partition wall for a new room or a load-bearing wall, a drywall repair company can’t do the framing. A general contractor will hire or work with a framing carpenter to ensure the new wall is properly constructed, with the correct studs, headers, and other structural components.

For example, if you’re turning a large open room into two smaller spaces or adding a new closet, a GC will manage the project by overseeing the construction of the wall framework, followed by drywall installation.

b. Framing Around Doors and Windows

Adding, enlarging, or moving doors and windows requires extensive framing work. The general contractor will ensure that the new door and window openings are framed according to building codes, providing a solid structure that supports the weight of the surrounding walls. They’ll also make sure that the framing is properly sealed to prevent air leaks and moisture damage.

This is especially true if you're considering changing the dimensions of an existing window or door opening. A drywall repair company wouldn’t have the expertise to ensure the structural integrity of a space when altering these types of openings.

c. Load-Bearing Walls

If your project involves removing or altering a load-bearing wall, this is a major construction task that requires a general contractor’s attention. A load-bearing wall supports the weight of the house, including the roof and floors above. Removing or shifting the position of a load-bearing wall needs to be done with great care, ensuring that temporary supports are used while new framing is put in place to maintain the structural integrity of the home.

A drywall repair company would not have the structural knowledge to handle these kinds of significant changes, as they typically focus on surface-level tasks like installing drywall sheets or repairing drywall damage. A GC, on the other hand, will work with structural engineers or experienced framers to get the job done safely and correctly.

2. When Baseboards and Trim Moldings Need to Be Installed

Once your drywall is hung, finished, and painted, the final touches like baseboards and trim moldings are often required to give your space a polished and finished look. Drywall repair companies don’t typically handle trim installation, as this is an entirely different skill set that requires a keen eye for detail and precise cuts. While some drywall companies may install basic trim in some cases, it's not typically part of their core service offering.

Here are the types of projects involving baseboards and trim molding that would require a general contractor:

a. Installing Baseboards

Baseboards are an essential part of the finishing process in a room. They not only enhance the aesthetic of your space, but they also protect the bottom of the walls from wear and tear. Installing baseboards involves cutting them to fit the room and securing them to the walls. This requires careful measurement, cutting, and nailing, which should be performed by someone with carpentry experience.

A general contractor will typically manage this aspect of the renovation and may hire a finish carpenter to perform the work. If you want custom or intricate baseboards, a general contractor can source the materials and ensure they are installed properly, allowing for expansion gaps or other necessary adjustments.

b. Installing Window and Door Trim

Beyond baseboards, other trim pieces, such as door casing, window trim, or crown molding, are often needed to give a room a more sophisticated and cohesive look. A general contractor will help select the right trim for your home’s style, order the necessary materials, and then install it with precision.

The installation of window and door trim often requires more skill than installing drywall or baseboards due to the detailed cuts required around corners and angles. The general contractor will ensure that the trim fits seamlessly around windows and doors, and is properly finished.

c. Crown Molding and Decorative Trim

Crown molding is an elegant detail often found at the top of walls in kitchens, living rooms, or bedrooms. Installing crown molding is more complex than other types of trim, requiring an experienced finish carpenter who can make intricate cuts and install it properly. If you’re planning on adding crown molding or other decorative trims, a general contractor will bring in the right professionals to complete the job to your specifications.

General contractors have the expertise to work with skilled carpenters who specialize in trim work. They will ensure the proper materials are used and that the trim is installed with precision to achieve the intended look.

3. When Electrical or Plumbing Work is Involved

A drywall repair company typically does not have the expertise to handle electrical or plumbing systems. If your drywall project requires rerouting wires, installing outlets, or moving plumbing lines, a general contractor must be involved. These types of renovations often require specialized permits and licensed professionals.

For example, if you are installing new drywall in a kitchen and need to relocate electrical outlets or plumbing lines, your general contractor will hire licensed electricians or plumbers to ensure the work is done up to code. Once the rough-in work is complete, the general contractor will then bring in the drywall crew to finish the space.

4. When the Project Requires Multiple Subcontractors

A general contractor acts as the project manager for home renovation projects that involve multiple subcontractors. If your drywall project requires coordination with other trades, such as electricians, plumbers, or painters, a general contractor will handle all of the logistics.

The general contractor ensures that work is completed on time, on budget, and to code. They will communicate with all parties involved, schedule subcontractors at the right times, and supervise the entire process to avoid delays or errors.

For example, when installing drywall in a basement, a general contractor would coordinate the work with the electrician, plumber, insulation specialist, and drywall team to make sure that all aspects of the project are completed in the proper order.

5. When the Project is Part of a Larger Renovation

If your drywall project is part of a larger home renovation, such as a kitchen remodel, bathroom overhaul, or basement finishing, hiring a general contractor makes more sense. A GC will help oversee the entire renovation process, ensuring all elements of the project come together cohesively.

From the design phase to completion, a general contractor will manage the project scope, timeline, budget, and quality of work. They will handle the scheduling of tradespeople, sourcing materials, and obtaining necessary permits for the renovation. Whether it’s a large-scale remodel or a smaller home improvement project, the GC will ensure all aspects of your renovation are professionally handled, including the drywall installation.

Conclusion

While drywall repair companies specialize in installing and repairing drywall, there are certain situations where you’ll need the expertise of a general contractor to ensure the success of your renovation. A general contractor’s expertise in structural framing, finish carpentry, electrical and plumbing work, and project management is essential for larger and more complex projects.

If your drywall work involves substantial changes, such as framing new walls, installing trim, or handling multiple trades, a general contractor will be your best option. They will bring together the right professionals, ensure all work is done up to code, and help bring your vision to life with a seamless and coordinated approach.

When in doubt, don’t hesitate to reach out to a general contractor to guide you through your project. Their expertise will save you time, money, and potential headaches, allowing you to enjoy the final result with peace of mind.  Here at Grand Rapids Drywall Services, we would be happy to assess your project and make recommendations for managing your project!