The Rise of the Handyman: Why They're More Important Than Ever (and How to Find a Great One)
Our lives are busy. Between work, family, and social commitments, who has the time to tackle that ever-growing list of home maintenance tasks? This is where the humble handyman steps in, and their role is becoming increasingly important in today's world.
Why the Demand for Handymen is Booming
Several factors are contributing to the surge in demand for handyman services:
Dual-Income Households: With more people working outside the home, there's less time for DIY projects.
Aging Population: As the baby boomer generation ages, the need for home modifications and accessibility features is rising.
Rising Specialization: Many homeowners lack the specific skills required for complex repairs, leading them to seek professional help.
Convenience and Expertise: Busy homeowners appreciate the convenience and expertise a handyman offers, tackling a variety of tasks under one roof.
Where Can a Handyman Help?
Handymen are skilled professionals who can address a wide range of residential needs. Here are some common areas where they can be your hero:
General repairs: Leaky faucets, loose doorknobs, creaky floors – they've seen it all and can fix it fast.
Carpentry: Building shelves, installing crown molding, repairing furniture – no woodworking woe is too big (or too small).
Plumbing: Fixing leaky pipes, unclogging drains, installing toilets – they'll keep your water flowing smoothly.
Electrical: Replacing light fixtures, troubleshooting outlets, installing ceiling fans – keeping your home brightly lit and safely powered.
Assembly: Putting together furniture, mounting TVs, installing appliances – say goodbye to confusing instruction manuals.
Odd Jobs: From hanging pictures to fixing a fence, a handyman can tackle those nagging to-do list items you just can't get to.
When to Call a Handyman vs. a Specialist
While handymen are skilled in a broad range of areas, there are times when a specialist might be necessary. Here's a general guideline:
For simple repairs and maintenance tasks: Call a handyman.
For complex issues requiring specific licensing or expertise (e.g., electrical rewiring, major plumbing overhaul): Hire a licensed professional.
When unsure: A good handyman will be upfront about their limitations and can recommend a qualified specialist when needed. Handyman are well connected and have well-vetted networks of reliable specialists in various industries. At the very list, they can help you build a comprehensive plan of what needs to be done so you are educated and have confidence when you shop around for specific contractors.
Finding the Perfect Handyman
With the growing demand, finding a reliable and trustworthy handyman is key. Here are some tips:
Get recommendations: Ask friends, family, and neighbors for referrals.
Check online reviews: Look for reviews on platforms like Google My Business, Nextdoor, or Angie's List.
Verify licensing and insurance: Ensure the handyman has the necessary licenses and insurance for the jobs they perform.
Get quotes: Obtain quotes from several handymen before making a decision.
Be clear about your needs: Clearly communicate the project details and desired outcomes.
By leveraging the expertise of a skilled handyman, you can free up your time, avoid costly repairs down the line, and keep your home running smoothly. So next time that to-do list seems overwhelming, remember – there's a hero in your neighborhood ready to lend a hand (and a toolbox)!
Elmbrook Handyman is always ready to help with your maintenance and home improvement projects. Simply click the button below to fill in our intake form and a member of our team will be with you shortly.
[Source: National Center for Healthy Housing]
[Source: CIM.io]
[Source: Wisconsin Realtors Association]
