As a proprietor of a mold remediation business, his statement that "Fear and worry are generally non-productive [and] bad" is a very powerful and heartening one. Instead of a kneejerk defense, he apparently realizes that there are less-than-reputable companies out there whose business practices poison those of the legitimate companies.
So, what home renovation trades out there, in my opinion, have a preponderance of companies which try to pump up the "Fear Factor" in order to generate business? In no particular order:
Mold Remediation
As mentioned, many mold remediation companies know that they have guaranteed business, especially during the crucial period when a house is being sold. Does this mean that all mold remediation is bad? Not at all. As a resident of a "wet" state (Washington), I know well how easily mold can get out of control.Replacement Windows
The replacement window industry does a good job of instilling fear in the minds of homeowners. And in some ways, it's with good reason. In theory, you can replace windows yourself. In practice, it's much more difficult to replace your own windows. Certainly, if it's just a failed window, you can have a glazier fix it. But you're still stuck between a rock and a hard place with replacement windows: experienced installers are pretty much necessary, so you need to deal with them.Vinyl Siding
Another job best left to the professionals, even more so than replacement windows. The vinyl siding companies will tell you that vinyl is cheaper than other types of siding, and unfortunately in most cases they are right.So where does the Fear Factor come into play? When they overestimate the cost of your siding job. Given the cost of installing vinyl siding, it's in your best interests to get up to four or five estimates. Guaranteed, you will find those five estimates varying wildly.
