Home improvement professionals vary. Who you hire also will depend largely on the size and complexity of your project. What follows is a brief description of the different contractors who do work for homeowners:

General contractors – they manage all facets of the project, including hiring and supervising subcontractors, obtaining building permits, scheduling inspections, and working with architects and designers.

Specialty contractors – these are the folks who install products, such as cabinets, bathroom fixtures, and bookshelves.

Architects – they design homes, additions, and major renovations.

Design/build contractors – they offer one-stop service and will see your project through from start to finish.