It’s an idea many of us toy with—hiring a friend to take on a remodeling project. You trust them, they know your style, and there’s that unspoken hope they’ll “hook you up” with a better price or faster service. It sounds like a win-win, right?

But then you start to wonder—what if something goes wrong? Could it ruin the relationship?

Remodeling is a big deal. It requires time, money, and, often, patience. The real question you need to ask yourself is: Do you want to mix those high stakes with a personal relationship? Because when things get tough—and they almost always do in remodeling—it could affect your friendship in ways you didn’t expect.

So, before you jump in, let’s take a moment to weigh the risks and rewards of mixing business with friendship—so you can decide if hiring a friend makes sense for you. 

When you’re getting ready for a home renovation, one of the biggest concerns is keeping your floors safe. You’ve likely invested time and money into choosing the perfect flooring for your home. The last thing you want is for those floors to get scratched, dented, or damaged during your remodel. Whether you’re remodeling a kitchen, bathroom, or tackling a full-home renovation, it’s crucial to make sure your floors are properly protected.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about floor protection during a renovation. We’ll answer all the common questions, help you choose the right materials, and make sure your floors come out of the project just as beautiful as before! If you’re planning a home renovation in New Hampshire, this article is a must-read!

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?

Dreaming of a fresh new look for your kitchen but dreading the thought of a full remodel? We get it—remodeling can be overwhelming with all the mess, stress, and expenses! 

The good news is, there are plenty of ways to update your kitchen without diving into a major renovation. You might be wondering:

• What are some budget-friendly ways to refresh my kitchen?

• Can I add an island without a complete kitchen overhaul?

• How can I update my backsplash without tearing everything apart?

• What small changes can make a big difference in my kitchen’s design?

• Can I give my cabinets a facelift without replacing them?

• How can I modernize my kitchen without a full renovation?

There are so many creative ways to breathe new life into your kitchen without committing to a full remodel. Let’s explore some practical tips and ideas to transform your space without completely revamping your entire kitchen!

Are you thinking about remodeling your bathroom but not sure how to properly prepare for it? Have you been wondering:

• What preparations should I make before contacting a contractor?

• How do I prepare for the design & planning phase of a bathroom remodel?

• How do I prepare for the construction phase of a bathroom remodel?

• How do I prepare my home for a bathroom remodel?

• What should I expect during a bathroom remodel?

Preparing for a bathroom remodel can seem overwhelming, but with the right guidance, it can be a smooth and rewarding experience. From setting your goals to selecting materials, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know!

Remodeling your bathroom is a significant investment that can transform your home, but it comes with its own set of challenges. From unexpected issues to managing costs and ensuring a trustworthy contractor, there are many potential pitfalls to navigate. This comprehensive guide will help you understand and tackle the most common bathroom remodeling problems, ensuring your project runs smoothly and successfully.

In this article, we'll cover:

• What are the most common bathroom remodeling mistakes?

• How do I avoid design mistakes in my bathroom remodel?

• How can I handle unexpected issues during a bathroom renovation?

• How can I ensure my bathroom remodel stays on schedule?

• How do I avoid cost overruns in my bathroom remodel?

• What can I do if I have a disagreement with my contractor?

• What should I do if my contractor uncovers mold in my bathroom remodel?

• What are the dangers of asbestos in my bathroom remodel?

• What happens if a contractor damages my property?

• And much more!

Remodeling your kitchen is a significant investment that can transform your home, but it comes with its own set of challenges. From unexpected issues to managing costs and ensuring a trustworthy contractor, there are many potential pitfalls to navigate. This comprehensive guide will help you understand and tackle the most common kitchen remodeling problems, ensuring your project runs smoothly and successfully.

We'll cover:

What are the most common kitchen remodeling mistakes?

How can I handle unexpected issues during a kitchen renovation?

How can I ensure my kitchen remodel stays on schedule?

How do I avoid cost overruns in my kitchen remodel?

What can I do if I have a disagreement with my contractor?

What should I do if my contractor uncovers mold in my kitchen remodel?

What are the dangers of asbestos in my kitchen remodel?

What happens if a contractor damages my property?

And, much more!

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?

Have you heard all the horror stories of home improvement projects gone wrong? Are you worried that this might happen to you?

• Have you been asking:

• How will I know if the contractor I hire is trustworthy?

• How can I know if my contractor is ripping me off?

• How can I tell if my contractor’s work is good?

• How will I know if my contractor will complete my project on time and on budget?

Recently, my sister bought a home that needed some updating. Since she lives 1200 miles away, our company was unable to complete the projects for her. So, she asked me for advice on hiring the right contractor. 

What follows is the advice I gave her (in a more structured format). You might be surprised by what I told her!

Have you ever wondered why some contractors are more expensive than others? Why might one contractor quote $30,000 for a remodeling project, while another will charge $50,000 for the same job? Is the pricier contractor overcharging? Is the cheaper one cutting corners? 

Have you been wondering:

• Why is there a difference between contractors’ prices?

• Why are some contractors more expensive than others?

• How do contractors come up with their prices?

• What factors affect how much a contractor charges?

• What are contractor prices based on? 

• How will I know if a contractor’s price is fair?

• How can I avoid being overcharged by a contractor?

Let’s explore the factors that influence contractors’ pricing and help you make an informed decision for your project.

Have you been wondering if it will be possible for you to live in your home while it is being remodeled?

Have you been asking:

Can I live in my home during a bathroom remodel?

Can I live in my home during a kitchen remodel?

Will there be any health hazards during my remodel?

What can I expect when I live in my home during a remodel?

Will my belongings get dirty during the remodel?

These are all great questions! Let’s see if we can’t answer all of them for you today!

Have you ever wondered: How much return on investment can I expect from a home remodel? What remodeling decisions can I make to maximize my home’s resale value? How can I maximize resale value when I remodel my home? How can I maximize resale value when I remodel my kitchen?

We will answer all of these questions and tell you how our client did exactly this in a kitchen remodel.

When you’re planning a kitchen or bathroom remodel in Portsmouth, NH, one of the most critical decisions you'll face is how your contractor will bill you. Your choice in this area can significantly impact not only your budget but also your overall experience during the remodel. 

There are primarily two methods of charging for a service: a variable cost method, ie. Time & Materials or Cost-Plus. Or, a guaranteed cost method, like the aptly named Fixed Cost (also called Fixed Price). To avoid surprises, it is important to know which method your contractor will be using. 

Let's explore the different contract types—Time & Materials, Cost-Plus, and Fixed Cost—and help you decide which will be the best fit for your project.