When it comes to the contracting industry, there’s often confusion surrounding who does what specific projects. Should you hire a general contractor or opt for an artisan? What makes up an artisan contractor, and what type of coverage do these contractors require? These questions must be asked by individuals using these professionals for their projects. To help make this decision easier, we will discuss the differences between general vs artisan contractor and how each can benefit your project in different ways.
What is a General Contractor?
A general contractor is an all-encompassing professional who oversees the entire construction project. They can run the whole show, hire all subcontractors, procure materials, ensure all building codes are met, and more. General contractors are responsible for every aspect of a project, from start to finish.
When to Hire a General Contractor?
Hiring a general contractor can be a big decision, as they oversee all aspects of a construction project. While some people prefer to take on projects themselves, there are several situations where hiring a general contractor is the best option. Here are some instances when you should consider hiring a general contractor.
Large-Scale Projects
If you’re planning a large-scale construction project, such as building a new home or commercial property, hiring a general contractor is essential. General contractors have experience managing all aspects of large-scale projects, including permits, subcontractors, and timelines. As a result, they can help ensure that your project stays on budget and schedule.
Complex Projects
Hiring a general contractor is highly recommended if your construction project is complex, with multiple stages and intricate details. General contractors have the expertise and knowledge to manage even the most complex projects, ensuring everything is done correctly and efficiently. They are also equipped to handle any issues during the project.
Lack of Time
A general contractor can be a great solution if you have a busy schedule and don’t have the time to manage a construction project yourself. They can handle all aspects of the project, from start to finish, allowing you to focus on other things. A general contractor can save time while also reducing stress.
Lack of Experience
Hiring a general contractor is a good idea if you don’t have experience with construction projects. They can guide and advise throughout the process, ensuring everything is done correctly. This can ultimately save you money and prevent mistakes.
Permits and Regulations
If your construction project requires permits and must comply with specific regulations, a general contractor can help. They have experience navigating the permit application process and can ensure that your project complies with all applicable regulations. This can prevent delays and fines.
What is an Artisan Contractor?
An artisan contractor is a skilled tradesperson specializing in crafts such as carpentry, masonry, or electrical work. They are typically hired to complete one aspect of a construction project, such as building decks or installing drywall. Artisan contractors can provide specialized services that general contractors may not be able to offer.
When to Hire an Artisan Contractor
Artisan contractors are skilled professionals specializing in a particular trade, such as woodworking or masonry. While general contractors oversee all aspects of a construction project, artisan contractors focus on a specific area of expertise. Here are some instances when you should consider hiring an artisan contractor.
Specialized Trades
Hiring an artisan contractor is the best option if you need work done in a specialized trade, such as custom cabinetry or ironwork. Artisan contractors have the specialized skills and knowledge required to complete these projects with precision and high quality.
Custom Work
Hiring an artisan contractor is highly recommended if you’re looking for custom work, such as a unique fireplace or handcrafted tile backsplash. They can create unique pieces that fit your exact specifications, ensuring you get the desired results.
Restorations and Repairs
If you need restoration work done on historic or older buildings, an artisan contractor can help. They have the experience and skills required to restore older buildings to their former glory. Similarly, an artisan contractor can provide high-quality, precise work if you need repairs done on a specific area, such as a damaged stone wall or stained-glass window.
Small-Scale Projects
If you have a small-scale project that requires specialized skills, such as building a custom bookshelf or installing decorative molding, an artisan contractor is a great choice. They can provide personalized attention to detail and ensure the project is completed satisfactorily.
Quality Workmanship
If you value quality workmanship and attention to detail, hiring an artisan contractor is a must. Artisan contractors take pride in their work and strive to create high-quality, beautiful pieces that will last for years to come.
Key Differences Between General Vs. Artisan Contractor
While both general and artisan contractors are involved in construction projects, there are some key differences between the two. This section will go over the key differences that separate both a general contractor vs an artisan:
Scope of Work
The main difference between general and artisan contractors is the scope of work they are responsible for. General contractors oversee all aspects of a construction project, including permits, subcontractors, and timelines. On the other hand, artisan contractors focus on a specific area of expertise, such as woodworking or masonry.
Specialized Skills
Artisan contractors have specialized skills and knowledge in their particular trade, while general contractors have a broad understanding of all aspects of construction projects. Artisan contractors often provide custom work and one-of-a-kind pieces that require precision and attention to detail. In contrast, general contractors ensure that all aspects of the project come together seamlessly.
Project Size
General contractors typically handle large-scale construction projects, such as building new homes or commercial properties. On the other hand, artisan contractors often work on smaller-scale projects requiring specialized skills and attention to detail.
Management Style
General contractors manage all aspects of a construction project, including budgets, timelines, and subcontractors. On the other hand, artisan contractors may work independently or as part of a small team and have a more hands-on approach to their work.
Permits and Regulations
General contractors ensure that construction projects comply with all applicable permits and regulations. Artisan contractors may also be required to adhere to these regulations, but their specialized work often requires a different set of permits and regulations than larger construction projects.
Why Both Contractors Need a Billing Software
While general and artisan contractors may have different roles in the construction industry, they both need reliable billing software to ensure that they get paid for their services before, during, or at the completion of the project. Good billing software should provide an easy way to manage invoices and payments, generate accurate estimates, and track project progress. With that said, here are some of the reasons why both general and artisan contractors need billing software:
Streamline Billing Processes
Billing software can help both general and artisan contractors streamline their billing processes. Automating invoicing and payment tracking saves time and reduces the risk of errors.
Better Cash Flow Management
Billing software also helps contractors manage their cash flow more effectively. It provides a clear picture of incoming payments and helps contractors identify outstanding invoices that need to be paid. This helps with budgeting and planning for future projects.
Improved Accuracy
Manual billing processes can be prone to errors, such as incorrect calculations or typos. Billing software eliminates these errors by automatically calculating amounts due and generating invoices with accurate information.
Increased Professionalism
Billing software can help general and artisan contractors appear more professional to clients. Automated invoicing, payment tracking, and the ability to accept various payment methods can help build trust and confidence with clients.
Invoice Tracking
Billing software allows contractors to track invoices and payments easily. They can quickly see which invoices are paid, which ones are overdue, and which ones are outstanding. This helps contractors stay on top of their finances and avoid missed payments.
Why Try ReliaBills?
Whether you’re a general or artisan contractor, reliable billing software is important for managing your business finances. That way, you can easily track invoices and payments and have a clear picture of your cash flow. For that reason, you should consider ReliaBills—the number one option for any contractor.
ReliaBills is a cloud-based invoicing and billing software designed to automate payment processes, reduce administrative overhead, and streamline payment processing duties. ReliaBills’ payment processing features include automated recurring billing, payment tracking, payment reminders, online payment processing, and much more!
It also provides valuable tools that help manage customer information, monitor payment records, and create proper billing and collection reports. As a result, invoice and billing management are simple and convenient. You also get access to active customer support, ready to assist you whenever you need help.
Get started with ReliaBills for free today! And if you want more features, you can upgrade your account to ReliaBills PLUS for only $24.95 monthly! Subscribing to ReliaBills PLUS will give you access to advanced features such as automatic payment recovery, SMS notifications, custom invoice creation, advanced reporting, and more!
With ReliaBills, you have an all-in-one solution to your invoicing and payment processing needs. Our convenient solutions will enable you to focus more on running and growing your brand or business. Get started today!
Wrapping Up
Whether you’re a general contractor, an artisan, or someone looking for one or both positions, knowing their differences is essential. By considering factors like experience, completion speed, and project type when choosing a professional for your next contracting job, you can ensure that the best professional is selected. Also, effective billing software like ReliaBills can help streamline payment processing and improve overall cash flow. So get started with ReliaBills today to take your invoicing and payment processing management to the next level!
