What are the first steps to start a remodeling project?
Find a contractor that can understand your intentions to renovate and that takes the time to listen to all of your ideas. More important than judging a contractor by price is finding someone you can build a good working relationship with. Remember, people that renovate your home will be inside and around your house for an extended period of time.
How much time does a renovation take?
Preparation for a small renovation project will take about 2 months. That includes considering design options, fixtures to use, layout plans, lighting, etc. Bigger projects will take 3 to 4 months to plan and prepare. Small bath renovations take 3 to 4 weeks. Average kitchen renovations take 5 to 8 weeks. Building a small and simple addition can be done in 2 months. The average size addition will take 3 to 4 months to build.
What are helpful things to know about my prospective contractors?
- Ask to see similar projects done by the contractor you're interviewing
- Request a list of references that you can contact to ask about their experience working with this contractor
- Find out about their design process
- Learn all about the pre-construction process like permitting and pre-construction meetings
- Ask how the construction process is supervised, who the subcontractors are, and how the project will be finalized
Who should I trust for design?
Design build firms, such as our own, are able to generate designs that will work with a predetermined budget. As the design changes, the cost can be easily adjusted. Because design build firms are experienced in construction, they are better at understanding money-saving design options that can be incorporated early on. Projects designed by an architect usually contain themes and features that reflect their style. If you are considering many different design options that require a more complex design process, using an architect can be useful.
Should I include green build methods?
We recommend using as many green build features as possible for your project. As you can see from our website, we love passive solar design and we love incorporating even small aspects of it into a renovation, such as adding south facing windows. A really successful green build feature is the adding of insulation to the attic, exterior walls, and basement. Living in a house that is easier to heat and cool is not only easier on your wallet but also more comfortable.
