All good comments. I will recommend contractors but only when I know I will not be using them in the time period requested. The other problem is not all contractors are consistent. I recently recommended my best roofer and leak fixer for a project that would not interfere with my projects. Now this guy is the best and has high quality work at above average prices. He and the owner did not see eye to eye on the pace of the repairs (contractor is slow and plodding but will not quit until the job is done and perfect) and now I have two disgruntled parties who blame me.
And in spite of all of the comments here - no one has recommended any contractors to you.
So, what's a guy to do when he needs contractors? Here is my best advice.
Go to where they buy their supplies. I found the roofer above when I had to replace roof damage after a hurricane. The roof was a special fiber-based Spanish tile that had an installation manual that was voluminous. I knew my regular roofers could not take the time needed for a proper installation. I called the manufacturer of the tiles and got the names of the local suppliers, I called them and asked for the names of who they considered to be their most knowledgeable installers of the tiles. I called these companies and hired one. I have done this many times, especially when going into a new area where I have no contractors.
Second, ask your respected contractors. I recently started renovations on 4 townhouses in a rural area where I had not one contractor. I did know one electrician that has done commercial work for me nearby. I asked who he would hire to work on his rental houses and then I hired the people he recommended, then if I liked that contractor I asked him the same thing until I had a book full of names of quality contractors. Of all people the landscaper was the best source of referrals!
It does not matter if you are looking for plumbers, carpenters, or landscapers - you can find the best where they go every day to buy supplies.
