At some point, every homeowner faces a choice: Do you hire a handyman Lexington KY or look for a contractor? The line is not always clear, and you can save money or lose it based on this choice. The answer usually depends on the size and type of the project, your expectations, and how much control you want over the outcome.
The Difference Between Handyman and Contractor
A handyman Lexington KY does small jobs. Maybe a few hours or a day at most. This could be fixing leaky faucets, patching drywall, hanging doors, or small painting jobs. Some handymen offer “handyman construction” for slightly bigger repairs: fence fix, deck repair, or tile replacement. But if your job is large, involves permits, or requires multiple skilled trades, you are really looking for a general contractor Lexington KY.
Handyman jobs are small, quick, and do not need a lot of coordination. Contractors handle bigger jobs requiring organization and permits.
Here is a simple way to decide:
- Fixing something broken , Call a handyman
- Building something new (adding a room, kitchen remodel) , Call a contractor
- Updating a kitchen faucet , Handyman
- Full bathroom remodeling , Contractor
When to Call Which?
A handyman Lexington KY can often come out much faster and costs less by the hour. They are great for punch lists: a bit of painting, hanging shelves, fixing cabinet doors. But if you need to move plumbing or modify electrical, Lexington requires licensed trades. That is when you need a contractor.
Sometimes, handymen are more comfortable with certain jobs, maybe they specialize in decks, fencing, or drywall repair. Ask before you hire.
Cost Differences
This is probably the biggest point for most people. A handyman Lexington KY charges by the hour (maybe $40-60 per hour) with low travel fees. Contractors charge for the whole project and often markup materials, insurance, and other costs.
Quick chart:
| Service | Handyman | Contractor |
|---|---|---|
| Replace faucet | Yes | No |
| Tiling small area | Yes | No |
| Full remodel | No | Yes |
| Deck repair | Yes | Sometimes |
| Deck build from scratch | No | Yes |
Sometimes, people choose handymen for bigger jobs because they want to save money. This sometimes works for basic repairs, but risks big problems if rules are not followed.
Finding a Good Handyman
Check reviews, but be realistic. No one is perfect, and every handyman has a mix of feedback. Ask friends and neighbors, word of mouth matters. And make sure they are comfortable with your type of job.
Good qualities:
- Punctuality
- Good communication
- Stands by work (will come back if something fails quickly)
- Clear on pricing (won’t keep adding hours for no reason)
The best handymen are honest about what they can and cannot do. They do not pretend to be a contractor if the job is too big.
When a Handyman Is Not Enough
Jobs that change a home’s structure, wiring, or plumbing usually need someone licensed. Also, jobs that take multiple trades, like remodeling a basement, adding a deck, or doing a full kitchen. If you skip the right approach, you risk fines, failed inspections, or having to redo work.
Special Cases: Windows, Basements, and Decks
Some handymen are good at installing windows or handling replacement windows Lexington KY. But a project beyond a few windows, or where you are altering the structure, is a contractor’s job. Same goes for finishing a basement. You would want a basement remodeling contractor if walls, wiring, and plumbing are being modified. If a deck is just getting a few boards replaced, a handyman is fine. Building a deck from scratch needs a pro builder.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring
- What jobs do you most often handle?
- Do you work alone or have helpers?
- Are you insured (or licensed, if needed)?
- Are materials included in your pricing, or do I buy them?
- What happens if something breaks after your repair?
If people dodge these questions or cannot give a straight answer, think twice.
Living with Repairs
Most handyman Lexington KY jobs are quick, clean, and easy to live with. You might have some dust or debris, but it should be minimal. Contractors will bring more mess, but they also handle clean up and will return to fix any unexpected problems.
Finishing Thoughts
Picking between a handyman Lexington KY and a contractor is not always as simple as it looks. Think carefully about your project size, rules, and your tolerance for risk or mess. For anything big, complicated, or involving permits, hire a contractor. For repairs or small jobs, a trusted handyman will save you time and money. And do not feel bad about asking tough questions, they are used to it.