04/01/2026
Builder vs Contractor vs Construction Manager. Which one do you REALLY need? 🤔🏗️
Hiring the right company is an obvious first step on any project; but the question most people skip is the more important one, what type of company should I hire?
There aren’t strict, legal definitions for terms like builder, general contractor, or construction manager, but in practice they usually fall into the following categories.
Builder
A builder is typically best for straightforward projects. They’re often sole proprietors or small outfits with one or two employees. Builders usually self-perform most of the work and are skilled in general carpentry, drywall, painting, and similar trades. These are a good fit when the scope is simple and doesn’t require much coordination with other trades.
General Contractor
A general contractor typically has a larger staff and oversees all aspects of construction, from site work through finishes. While some work may be done in-house, specialized trades like electrical, mechanical, and plumbing are usually subcontracted. General contractors most often work under a fixed-price contract, providing an estimate up front and delivering the project for an agreed-upon cost.
Construction Manager
A construction manager self-performs little, if any, physical work. Instead, they work closely with the client, often starting in the preconstruction phase to help develop plans, scopes, and budgets that align with the client’s goals. Construction managers usually work for a fee or percentage of the project cost, with pricing that is transparent and shared openly with the owner.
Why Solid Roots Construction
Over the years, we’ve learned that different projects, and different clients, require different approaches. Whether you’re at the earliest concept stage or bidding a completed set of plans, Solid Roots Construction can serve as either a General Contractor or Construction Manager to help you reach your project goals efficiently and realistically.
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