Imagine this: Your kitchen remodel is well underway. The old cabinets are gone, the walls are exposed, and you’re dreaming of the day you can finally use your beautiful new space! Then suddenly, the contractor doesn’t show up! Days pass. You call, you email, but all you get is silence or vague excuses. Frustration turns to panic. Will your kitchen ever be finished?

If this feels familiar, you’re not alone. Sadly, many homeowners face this exact scenario. While there are legitimate reasons contractors may pause work temporarily, sometimes projects are abandoned entirely. The result? A stressful situation where homeowners feel stranded and unsure of what to do next.

Understanding why this happens can help you protect yourself and navigate these challenges with confidence.

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.

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.

When you’re planning a home remodel, it can be tough to find a contractor you feel confident trusting with your project. But once you find that contractor, how can you be sure they won’t hire a subcontractor who isn’t as trustworthy? 

You’ve likely heard horror stories about subcontractors not showing up on time, making mistakes, or cutting corners. So, how can you make sure this doesn’t happen to you?

Your home is a big deal, and you want everything done right. What happens when your contractor brings in subcontractors? Will they communicate with you? Will they be held to the same standards? How do you know they’re qualified and reliable?

In this article, we’ll answer the most common questions homeowners have about subcontractors and their role in the remodeling process. By the end, you’ll feel more confident about what to expect and how to avoid potential headaches.

You’ve probably heard the horror stories—homeowners hiring contractors, paying a deposit, and then… nothing. No updates, no communication. Days turn into weeks, and doubt starts to creep in. Did I just get ghosted? Will this contractor show up on the start date? Or worse, will they disappear forever and never be heard from again? It’s a scary thought, especially when you’ve trusted someone with your home and hard-earned money.

If you’re worried about this happening to you, you’re not alone. Many homeowners share these concerns after hiring a contractor and paying that first deposit. But the truth is, a reputable contractor will keep you informed throughout the process.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the typical process and help you understand how a professional contractor should handle communication, timelines, and project updates, so you can feel confident in your remodel.

There are a lot of reasons why a homeowner might want to hire different contractors to work on their projects simultaneously. Maybe one contractor had the best price for your kitchen remodel, and another had a better price for the bathroom renovation. Or perhaps you really like your electrician and would like them to rewire your home while a general contractor handles the rest of the project.

In this article, we’ll explore the details of hiring multiple contractors, weighing the pros and cons, so you can decide if this approach is right for your project!

Hiring the right contractor for your kitchen or bathroom remodel can be a daunting task. It’s not just about finding someone who can do the work – it’s about finding a contractor who understands your vision, communicates well, stays on schedule, and ensures that the quality of work will meet your expectations.

When it comes to selecting a contractor, asking the right questions can make all the difference. By posing the right questions, you can gain insights into their experience, approach to project management, and overall reliability. This proactive approach not only helps you make an informed decision but also sets the stage for a successful remodeling experience, ensuring that your vision is realized while minimizing potential pitfalls along the way. 

So, what questions should you ask when interviewing contractors?

The design-build model has been gaining popularity amongst New Hampshire homeowners. But is it the right choice for your remodel? Have you been wondering:

• What does design-build mean?

• How is a design-build company different from a general contractor?

• How does the design-build process work for home remodeling?

• Are there benefits to hiring a design-build firm for my remodel?

• What are the disadvantages of hiring a design-build firm?

• Is a design-build company more expensive than hiring separate designers and contractors?

Let’s explore these questions, and more, and see if the design-build approach will be a good fit for your remodeling plans!

Imagine this: you’re about to embark on a dream remodeling project, but you’ll be out of town while it’s happening. Does this feel a bit daunting? Have you been left wondering:

• What should I do to prepare my home for a remodel if I'm going to be away?

• How can I ensure my home is secure while I'm away during the remodeling process?

• What are the risks of being away during a home remodel?

• How can I communicate effectively with my contractor while I'm not at home?

• What are the best ways to handle unexpected issues during a remodel if I'm not there?

• How do I make sure my remodeling project stays on schedule while I'm away?

• How can I track the progress of my home remodel while I'm away?

Preparing for unexpected issues during a bathroom remodel can seem daunting, but with the right information, you can navigate any surprises with confidence. 

Have you been wondering how to handle potential challenges that might come up during your remodel? Today we’ll answer some of the most common questions homeowners have, including:

• What are common unexpected issues that can arise during a remodel?

• How can I budget for unforeseen expenses in a remodeling project?

• Should I set aside a contingency fund for my remodel? How much should it be?

• What should I do if I discover structural damage during my remodel?

• What steps can I take to minimize the risk of unexpected problems during a remodel?

• How can I communicate effectively with my contractor about unforeseen issues?

Are you curious about how contractors keep large remodeling projects on track and within budget? Imagine having a tool that acts as your guide throughout the entire process, ensuring every detail is accounted for—from initial planning to final touches. That's what project management software does!

In this article, we'll explore the ins and outs of project management software, its benefits to both contractors and homeowners, and why it's a game-changer in the remodeling industry. We’ll answer all of your questions like:

• What is project management software?

• Why do contractors use project management software?

• What kind of information does project management software track?

• What is the advantage of hiring a contractor who uses project management software?

• How does project management software improve the efficiency of remodeling projects?

• Can project management software help in selecting materials and finishes?

• What project management software does Rothrock Kitchen & Bath Remodeling use?

• What is the role of the homeowner in using project management software?

Are you ready to transform your kitchen? A remodel can breathe new life into one of the most important spaces in your home. But, what does that process look like? Have you been wondering:

• What are the phases of a kitchen remodel?

• What is involved in the design phase of a kitchen remodel?

• What is the preconstruction phase of a kitchen remodel?

• What is involved in the construction phase of a kitchen remodel?

• What are the steps involved in a kitchen remodel?

• What tasks need to be done to complete a kitchen remodel?

Are you considering a home renovation or remodel? Whether it’s transforming your kitchen or updating your bathroom, embarking on a remodeling project is both exciting and daunting.

Have you been wondering: Where do I start in planning my kitchen remodel? What steps do I need to take to bring my bathroom remodel vision to life? Can my contractor help me design my remodel? Is it as simple as just talking to a contractor and letting them get to work?

Unfortunately, no, it isn’t that simple. There’s a lot involved in project planning to ensure everything turns out just as you’ve imagined.

As you’re looking forward to your bathroom remodel, are you worried about the schedule? Have you been wondering:

Will my bathroom remodel stay on schedule? What could cause my bathroom remodel to take longer than it should? What can I do to keep it on schedule? Is there anything I can do to keep my bathroom remodel from being delayed?

Well, we have good news and bad news for you. Let’s talk about all of these issues so that you have the information you need to make sure your bathroom gets done on time!