Woes of a Rental House: Shoddy Work in Residential Remodeling Projects
Recently, after purchasing a rental house that had undergone a significant remodel, we encountered some truly shoddy work during our renovation endeavors. This experience is not uncommon among many homeowners and commercial carpenters who are trying to tackle significant changes on their properties.
Baseboard Heaters and Electrical Mishaps
One of the most chaotic issues we encountered involved the installation of 240-volt baseboard heaters. The work was not only poorly executed but also exceedingly dangerous. The conduit, instead of being installed in the attic with easy access and a complete floor (which could be considered an original flat roof under the newly added pitched roof), was run around the outside of the house. Moreover, the attic itself was already in a state of disrepair and in the process of becoming dangerously unstable.
Unfortunately, the issue didn’t stop there. When we tried to use any of the heaters, they immediately tripped the breaker. Upon investigation, we found that the installer had not only defeated the purpose of the safety temperature cutout but had also created a dead short by rewiring it to ground. To exacerbate the problem, a jumper was installed, creating a worse situation where the other bedroom heater was connected to the same heater through dead shorts.
The Horrors of Wire Nuts and Exposed Wires
The issues with the electrical work didn’t stop there. Wire nuts designed for up to three wires were used with five to seven wires, and the over-stripping of these nuts exposed more than an inch of bare wire. This bare wire not only posed a safety risk but also directly shorted to the heater, causing further complications and hazards.
Ignoring Basic Electrical Principles
It became clear that the licensed electrician hired to complete this installation was not only unskilled but also wholly unfamiliar with the differences between 120-volt and 240-volt hookup. This lack of knowledge could have resulted in severe safety hazards if not recognized and rectified promptly.
Resources for Woodworking Enthusiasts
For people who love woodworking and are diligently searching for detailed plans to build their dream projects, we highly recommend checking out the comprehensive list of 16,000 projects available online. These plans are incredibly detailed, leaving nothing to guesswork while also being simple enough for beginners to follow. Each project comes with step-by-step instructions, cutting and materials lists, and detailed schematics from all angles, ensuring a clear and manageable building process that can be tackled even by those new to woodworking.
Conclusion
Renovations and remodeling can be daunting tasks, even for those with considerable experience. Shoddy work can lead to significant safety hazards and result in a subpar final product. By ensuring that the appropriate professionals with experience and up-to-date knowledge are consulted, such issues can be minimized. Additionally, for those looking to take up woodworking as a hobby or profession, having access to detailed, beginner-friendly plans can greatly enhance the quality and enjoyment of the project.