All Forum Posts by: Account Closed

 I simply look in the mirror.   :)

But seriously, referral is probably the best method and it may take time...weeding through some bad ones, to find good ones. The good thing is though: once you find one, you'll find others through him...because birds of a feather flock together. 

Good contractors absolutely do exist but you also have to be willing to pay accordingly.  All expensive contractors are not good but all good contractors are expensive...and worth every penny.

@Kyle Mann Welcome to BP!  

Thats funny but I hope you're kidding!

@Henry Sims  Is it just the photo or are those bath sinks and mirrors different sizes?  I know we all have different tastes but if it's the latter, I don't care for it.  I hope that's not going to become a new style trend!  :) 

I do think the kitchen looks attractive and I applaud you for addressing the sagging floors.  

Good luck with it!

@Jane A. Since it is the subfloor, I would say forget the epoxies. Your best bet without taking up the finished floor, is to just put solid blocking underneath. You can use treated 2x10's, on the flat, directly under the damaged areas and toenail or pocket-screw them in place. 

This is not the ideal, but if the rotted area is not too big, it will be fine.  The most important thing is that you address the original cause of the rot...which it sounds as though you've done. Good luck!

@Henry Sims I'm amazed you are able to complete this in only 2 months and for only 20k. @Barbara G. asked earlier, what you did about the sagging floors: I too am curious. 

@Shayla Sadler  Welcome to BP!!  Good luck with your future endeavors. 

@Jane A.You haven't said specifically what it is that you're trying to repair but there are several epoxy compounds made for wood. I've used many of them and like Abatron products the best (http://www.abatron.com/). Bondo is not really made for wood repair and will not last (it will fall out).

None of these will work if there is any wood movement or if the directions are not followed explicitly.  And very few are designed for structural repairs.  

The general process is that the wood in question must be made completely dry (12-16% MC). Then a consolidated is applied til the area is saturated. Finally an epoxy compound is applied and when dry, can be sanded & finished. 

Epoxy repairs properly done are time consuming and the products are expensive. They do have their uses but it is generally best to just replace the wood if you can. 

@Matt Speer I agree with @Jean Bolger.  A seriously fire-damaged house could cost a lot to restore...much more than 50k.  Be careful!

@Heather Ippolito  From just your description, of the two, I would probably prefer the latter since it is in a nicer neighborhood on a quiet street.

One thing also to consider is the age of the houses and their systems e.g. roof, HVAC, etc. 

I'm sure you will get lots of good advice from others here on this topic. I wish you much success in your investments!