Frequently Asked Questions
– What sort of renovations do you do?
We typically take on renovation/remodeling projects starting around $20,000-$30,000 and up. That could look like a kitchen renovation, bathroom renovation, general updating (trim work, flooring, feature walls, fireplaces, etc.), basement renovation, adding in a secondary suite, an addition, or a whole home renovation. Our team and our trusted group of subcontractors can help with the entire process from the initial planning stages to final touches.
– How do you ensure that a project stays within budget?
We have detailed estimating templates that help us accurately estimate costs and labour hours for many aspects of construction. Sometimes renovations can be tricky because there are unknowns – there may be rot in parts of the house that need to be repaired, or past improvements that were not code compliant and need to be remedied, or there are several layers of old flooring under the current flooring (yes, this happens more than you would think). We capture the unknowns in the form of contingency funds, which could be 10-20% of the total budget depending on the age and condition of the house. Ideally, we never have to touch those funds, but it is good to be prepared to spend that additional amount to properly deal with things that come up.
– How do you maintain a project schedule and ensure it stays on track?
We take extra time before construction begins to plan, source, and pre-order materials if necessary to ensure that there will not be any delays due to material shortages or fixtures out of stock. Again, we use our experience, judgement and estimating templates to create an accurate timeline. We provide our clients with weekly updates with pictures so you can see how the project is progressing.
– How do I know I will be happy with the end product?
We strive to deliver the highest quality workmanship, we do not cut corners, and if something is not up to our standards (or yours) we will address it right away. The planning process is important in this regard as well – it is far easier and cheaper to make changes on paper before construction has begun. If we can check all the boxes for your dream home with high-quality products and material selections during planning, we are confident that our team can make your dream a reality.
– How do you typically communicate with clients during the project?
We know that staying connected with you every step of the way is key to a successful project. That’s why we keep the lines of communication wide open! Whether it’s through emails, phone calls, or texts, we make sure you’re always in the loop. Plus, we’ll send you weekly updates with pictures so you can see the progress firsthand. And hey, we love having you onsite too! That’s why we encourage a weekly visit to chat face-to-face, address any questions you might have, and make sure we’re on the same page with your preferences and selections. It’s all about making sure your vision comes to life exactly the way you want it.
– How long will the project take?
It really depends on what you’re envisioning! Every project is unique, with its own timeline and scope. For instance, sprucing up a bathroom typically takes around 3 to 6 weeks. If you’re thinking of adding a basement suite, you’re looking at about 3 to 4 months. And if you’re dreaming big with a whole home renovation, that could span around 5 to 6 months or even longer. Before we even start swinging hammers, we like to take some time upfront for pre-construction work – planning, getting permits, and ironing out all the nitty-gritty details. It’s like laying a solid foundation for the rest of the project, ensuring everything runs smoothly from start to finish.
– Can I live in my home while you are completing renovations?
Well, let’s break it down. If we’re working on a bathroom or a specific section of your home, chances are you can still live in your house during the renovation. If it is a whole home renovation, you will most likely have to find alternate living arrangements for the duration of the project. Construction zones can get pretty chaotic with all the noise, dust, and people coming and going. Even though we do our best to contain the mess, it can still be a bit disruptive. Sometimes it is a better idea for your convenience and sanity to arrange alternate living arrangements. If you are completely set on cooking on a hot plate in your basement while we renovate the top floor of your home, we can work with that too – in the end, the choice is yours and depends on what you feel comfortable with.