We realize there is a lot to learn about any home remodel project, so we have provided answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.
The Triangle is booming – North Carolina is becoming one of the hottest spots in the nation for tech companies, and with that comes a wave of new homebuyers. However, many homes in the most desirable neighborhoods have outdated floor plans, and often don’t have the space needed. Redesigning and adding on are great ways to create the home that’s right for you, right where you want to be!
Perhaps you have done some research online or spoken with a friend and been surprised to learn how much a home improvement project costs. It’s not uncommon to wonder if your dream of a renovation is out of reach when hearing numbers for the first time, so we encourage you to dive a bit deeper into learning what is involved. Large remodels of spaces like kitchens and bathrooms often involve changing the layout – removing a wall here, adding a door or window there – and there is structural work (and labor) involved. Changing the layout also necessitates moving electricity, plumbing, and ductwork. In other words, a lot goes on behind the scenes (or the walls, to be specific!) Another big factor driving costs is aesthetics: things like faucets & plumbing fixtures, cabinets, countertops, tile, flooring, light fixtures, and appliances. There is a broad spectrum of product options for each, ranging from builder-grade and budget-friendly to high-end luxury. You will have choices regarding all these aesthetic elements, so this is an area in which you may be able to reduce costs by choosing materials that best suit your budget. For a more in-depth look at what’s involved in pricing your project, check out our blog.
Discussing your budget can be uncomfortable, and it may have you wondering why we ask and if your answer will drive up the price. To the latter point, the answer is no. A reputable contractor will not pad or inflate an estimate, so this need not be a cause for concern. The reason we ask about your budget is to gain a clear understanding of your vision and desired scope of the project, as well as your priorities: what you really want to accomplish and why, and your wants versus needs. We strive to bring your goals into alignment with what is attainable, and we understand that sometimes this may require revising and value-engineering your project in order to make it happen – often we can work backwards to streamline the scope of the project when a client is candid about their desired budget. We strive to be transparent and manage expectations, and to maximize what is achievable no matter what you choose to spend.
Having a set of architectural and structural plans are essential for a comprehensive visual account of any large renovation or addition. Evaluating the designs in detail allows us to obtain the precise dimensions and materials required and estimate the cost of the project most accurately. We are happy to work with plans you already have, and if you need designs and engineering, we will gladly arrange for you to collaborate with one of our professional associates. We offer design-build services as well. To learn more about the design-build process, check out our blog.
Allowances provide a range of approximate costs of certain line items when specifics have yet to be determined because you, the client, will make a selection. This includes but is not limited to countertop materials, flooring materials, doors, tile, fixtures, basins, etc. We will refer you to our trusted vendors, who are aware of how allowances and the selection process works. They will show you options and help you to stay within your allowable budget. If you happen to fall in love with a selection that exceeds your allowance for that particular item, this will be considered a change order and charged additionally. Allowances include applicable taxes and Contractor markup.
Buying your own materials can seem like a way to save money and cut constructions costs. The reality is that it often creates challenges with regard to coordination, budgeting and timing. Ordering an incorrect specification or size is common, and sourcing materials can be difficult. For these reasons, we typically do not agree to clients purchasing their own materials. In some cases, a client does have specific items that they elect to purchase. In this instance, clients are fully responsible for timely delivery and accuracy of product(s). Any delays caused by materials that are not on-site at the time work commences may result in the project being rescheduled. Materials purchased by the client are also not covered under, and are specifically excluded from, our warranty, as is damage caused by or related to client-purchased materials.
From the moment you make the decision to move forward with your home improvement project, it’s natural to want things done right away. After all, this is an exciting change and may be one that was years in the making! The process starts with getting permits from the municipality in which your home is located. This can take anywhere from a couple of days to several weeks. During that time, you will be making selections of materials – things like your tile, flooring, countertops, faucets, etc. Some of these may require special order and we will notify you of expected lead times. Once your permits are ready and materials are ordered, construction can begin! Ordinarily it takes:
Kitchen remodel ~ 7-9 weeks. Partial remodels with fewer variables can take much less. Think about the logistics of where you will eat/cook while your project is going on.
Bathroom remodel ~ 5-8 weeks. A smaller or cosmetic remodel may be only 3-4 weeks.
Finish out an attic or basement ~ 8-10 weeks
Screened porch or deck ~ 4-5 weeks
Three- or four-seasons room ~ 6-10 weeks
Home addition ~ 2-3 months
Closer Look General Contracting is licensed through the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors by our Qualifier and owner, Phillip Oddo. We are fully insured, and we background check all of our employees.