So a couple of stories to illustrate the point... My father was a plumber, and was 54 years old when I was born, retiring at 62. So I had the benefit of spending lots of my childhood with him, during which he sometimes volunteered his time on worthwhile building repair projects, often helping people recommended by our church as needing help. He was also an incredible craftsman. I remember counless times when someone in the trades would get stuck on something and stop by our house for a lesson and consult from my father, who was always a fan of learning about your trade / craft. So even after he retired he often knew more about buildings and new materials than those still working, because he had a passion for his craft.
Years later my wife and I owned a home repair company that did some light remodeling. I was more of an investor and manager than a worker, but having grown up in the trades and having rebuilt several homes myself I've always kept somewhat up to date on building science and materials. So I was always amazed at just how little most "contractors" - people who worked in the trades every day, earning their living - knew about new materials, code changes, etc. They just hadn't bothered to learn. And when offered the opportunity, most just "couldn't find the time" for a class, or seminar, or certification even when it was offered for free and might have earned them more money over time. They essentially had to be forced to learn. In fact, our frustration with finding high quality craftsmen who had a passion for their trade/craft contributed to our decision to eventually sell the company. It was just increasingly difficult to find these folks, and we had other ways to spend our time and earn a living.
My point is that sadly, most people don't work in a field for which they have a true passion. They know enough not to cause an easily identified problem, but not enough to optimize the situation for their customers. My personal exprience has been that stove dealers are the same way. There are great ones, but they are rare. Most know less about building science and sometimes their own products than a passionate amateur, which is the foundation of this board. So when one does find a truly great dealer: Strike up a relationship, pay their higher fees for service, and be glad you're able to do so. Otherwise, LEARN to protect yourself and optimize your situation.
I get to learn more due to other people's construction woes. Keeps me aware of new products on the market too.
