Litlcleo,

Interesting stories. If I knew a few people in the business, I could have done this on my own, but when contractors are too busy to return calls to a one-project prospect, Ubuildit was what I needed. Getting good contractors has been worth the Ubuildit fee to me. Also I can call the construction supervisor anytime with tech questions. Mainly they've provided me with small contractors with no advertising but word-of-mouth. Sometimes I use the lowest bidder and sometimes not. I chose my lumberyard based on the guy who did the takeoff; he took me in his office and really went over the plans with me, so he understood them, and I understood them a lot better than I had beforehand. Their bid was slightly higher, but it's made a real difference. And there's been no problem with picking up returns, replacements, and changes in orders. The framing contractor is permitted to charge materials to my account, so they get what they need when they want it. If there's a downside, it's the waste. I can't believe the nails and staples tossed around on the ground. The roofers left dozens of partially used and unused nail coils with the roofing waste. I know it costs too much in time to bend over and pick it up, but when I was a kid, we picked up every damn nail. Just an old habit.

Mike,

I like your idea. I think Andy's formica is too fancy for my shop bench, not that I have any engine blocks to toss on it. Being able to unscrew and replace the hardboard top might work out well for me.

Andy,

Have you begun on the house yet? This morning I had carpenters hanging house siding, the plumber finishing the rough-in, the HVAC guy starting the furnace duct work, and we did a walk thru with the electrician. And tonight I stain more T&G soffit material.

Sg