General Contractor vs. Restoration Contractor

Are you planning to update your outdated interiors? Does your property need fixing after significant water damage? You may be surprised to know that there are two separate specialists suitable for the above jobs. When you search for contractors in your area, you’ll probably come across general contractors and restoration contractors.

To understand the difference between general and restoration contractors, it’s important first to learn the difference between construction and restoration.

Construction usually refers to building a commercial, residential or industrial space from the ground up. It can also involve renovations and extensions for existing properties. In comparison to restoration, construction is typically a lot more time-consuming as well as labor-intensive.

On the other hand, restoration refers to the process of bringing a property back to its original condition. Whether a fire broke out or a flood caused property damage, restoration involves making necessary repairs. Since repairs and improvements are made to an existing property, restoration is much more cost-effective and faster than construction.

Now, let’s take a look at the difference between a general contractor and a restoration contractor.

What Is a General Contractor?

General contractors specialize in new construction, remodeling, and extensions. Whether you want to build a new office space or add an extension to your existing home, a general contractor will be an ideal choice. Moreover, general contractors also work on renovation projects. From improving outdated interiors to designing a new layout, these professionals provide remodeling services as well.

Such contractors usually provide end-to-end construction solutions. They should be licensed and may work with subcontractors like plumbers, electricians, carpenters, etc. Since general contractors usually work on cosmetic property improvements, their services will probably not be covered by your insurance. You will have to pay out of pocket for such services.

If you’re planning to hire a general contractor, it’s important to do your research to find an experienced contractor. Otherwise, you will be stuck with unnecessary stress and delays. Here are a few things to consider when looking for a general contractor:

Check License
As previously mentioned, a general contractor should have a license to provide construction and renovation services. Make sure you check the contractor’s license before hiring them.

Ask About Experience
If you’re planning to build an office space, then a residential general contractor is not the right fit for you. When selecting a contractor, ensure that they have the relevant experience for your specific project.

Look for Local Contractors
It is always better to hire a local expert when it comes to construction and renovation.

Past Projects
Look at their past projects to learn more about their work. This will also help you understand if the contractor is a suitable choice for your project.

Ask for Estimate
Remember to ask for an estimate to ensure the contractor’s services are within your budget.

What Is a Restoration Contractor?

Restoration contractors specialize in restoring damaged or old properties. They are the expert if you want to salvage a damaged building and make it functional. At times, certain areas may have to be demolished and constructed again. But for the most part, restoration can be done without the need for demolition. Usually, damage can be fixed and restored to its previous condition using professional techniques and supplies.

Restoration work is often covered by insurance. If any damage has occurred to your property, you should call a restoration contractor to assess your property. After assessing the damage and estimating the restorations’ cost, the contractor will negotiate the price with your insurance company. You would just have to pay the deductible.

It’s also important to note that restoration services can’t always restore property just like before. The focus is on fixing the damage. So your property may look different after restoration, but it will be functional again.

When to Hire a General Contractor or Restoration Contractor?

If you want to construct a new building or make changes to your existing property, then hiring a general contractor is the better choice. However, if your residential or commercial property was impacted by water, wind, fire, storm, or other similar elements, then you need the expertise of a restoration contractor.

General Contractor for Water Damage

We are your water damage first responders when the water disaster strikes. Don’t let flooding ruin everything you hold dear in your home or office. At Beltway, our experts will be at your site for immediate water removal and restoration. We pay close attention to every detail to ensure your furniture and belongings are safe. We use our specialized tools and experience to minimize the damage. 

When it comes to water damage restoration, you need a specialist to help you retain the aesthetic and excellence of your home or commercial property. 

Flooding often causes long-term damage when water is not removed correctly. That is why you need an expert to remove each drop properly without affecting your carpet, furniture, and appliances. At Beltway Commercial Services, we understand the stress and emotion one goes through after water damage in their home or business. Thus, we take great pleasure in restoring each aspect of your residential and commercial property to its best possible original state. 

At Beltway, we handle each water damage restoration project with great efficiency and expertise to ensure quality results. When faced with a similar situation, do not worry and reach out to the experts for the best possible resolution.

General Contractor Fire Restoration

When faced with a fire disaster, you need an expert with experience to help you with cleanup and restoration. Beltway Commercial Services is that expert. 

A fire disaster can put your life to a halt with everything you have turned to ash, and what is left is not in its best form, covered with smoke and dust. That is when fire restoration services come in to save the day. For all your fire damage repair and restoration needs, we use our expertise and experience to combat each problem with an efficient action plan. Our experts will be at your door with our specialized tools to ensure each aspect of your property is restored and repaired after getting damaged by fire. With our state-of-the-art fire damage restoration equipment and a team of professional technicians, we ensure complete recovery where possible. 

After the fire trucks have left, a lot still needs to be protected due to the chemical composition and toxic fumes formed due to the fire disaster. Our skilled team of professionals will go to great lengths to clean up, restore, and repair every component of your property.

Contact our team of experts for best-in-class fire damage restoration and cleanup services.