Here are a few frequently answered questions:
What should I expect during my remodeling project?
Every Remodeling project is going to be different, but a typical kitchen makeover may include:
- SAFETY & PROTECTION for your HOME and YOU
- Planning, designing, and selecting materials
- Dust and Safety barriers
- Removal of all components being upgraded
- Electrical and plumbing work will be completed by a licensed contractor and meet local code requirements
- Cabinets will be installed with proper bracing
- Countertop will be field measured for fabrication off site than installed along with sinks/faucets and backsplash
- Painting of the new space will be completed
- Flooring, base, and trim will be installed
- CLEAN UP and Customer acceptance
Dust – is part of the process. Unfortunately we cannot eliminate it but we will do everything in our power to try and limit dust in your home, but there will inevitably be some. Typically, we will block off rooms and openings with dust barriers, and seal HVAC air returns, but this only limits the dust. It is always a good plan to remove all heirlooms, electronics (PCs, radios, stereos, etc.) and other dust sensitive items from the project area.
How long will it take to remodel my kitchen or bath?
Expect the project area to be out of commission for a few weeks, depending on the extent of the remodel. BHB plans their projects to minimize the disruption and does not start any project until all long lead items (cabinets, countertops, plumbing fixtures, etc.) have been selected and orders are submitted. Once the construction starts a typical kitchen or bath upgrade can take up to 6 – 8 weeks.
Who is responsible for my Project?
There will be Project Manager who will be responsible for and in charge of your project; he will be the single contact if you have any questions or issues. There will be a number of individuals that will come through your home — BHB keeps a daily log of our sub-contractors and tradesmen noting their arrival and their departure. The majority of the sub contractors have worked with BHB for a number of years and all meet our high standard of workmanship and etiquette. All of our sub contractors are monitored by our Leadership Team, and we require them to be clean and tidy with their work, manners and appearance. We are “Guests in your home.”
What can I expect in the way of Project Status & Communications?
BHB will establish a time that is convenient with each customer to discuss the progress of each project. In this day-and-age of email and texting, we can typically communicate with our clients almost daily about various items having to do with the project; this might be the weekly schedule, a change order, or just basic questions. If an urgent matter develops an alternate communication will be arranged during the orientation of the project with our leadership team.
How does BHB determine a project budget?
Budgeting is a key ingredient in preparing to do a renovation or remodel project. Keeping the customer’s guidelines in mind, the budget numbers are based on experience, prevailing prices, project specifications and the estimated time it will take to complete the project. BHB will always encourage open discussions during the Requirements & Design Phases to insure that the homeowner fully understands the cost impact of various project requests. Always remember it is better to adjust the budget costs on paper in the planning stage before changes have to be made during the construction phase.
Can I make changes along the way?
Many customers want to make changes to the plan as the new look unfolds. When these changes come up, we will ask that you discuss your requests with our Project Manager and sign a Change Order Form confirming any desired changes. The majority of changes will impact the production schedule and the budget.
Can I provide my own building materials?
There are many building materials available online and in local home improvement centers which can appear to be a ‘real bargain’ when compared with the materials provided by contractors; but the quality is not always comparable. Labor costs of contractors for ‘customer provided materials’ are generally more costly even though the rate is the same as it would be if the contractor provided the materials. Customer provided materials are usually not “install ready” which requires the contractors to take time to determine what extra parts are needed, acquire the additional parts, and then do the actual installation. What may seem like a great deal may cost you the customer, more time and money than is necessary.
What do I need to know about permits?
This is an area most people would prefer to ignore, but it is important to address. Various permits are often required for a full kitchen or bath renovation or when room additions or new structures are being considered. Architectural and Engineering Documents, and Building Permits are intended to protect you and your home from poor workmanship and potential damage.
Who takes care of permits?
There are times when our Architect will submit the plans and there are times when it is best for us the Contractor to apply for permits. As a NARI member BHB has committed to a code of ethics, and to following the law as it relates to this topic.
Does BHB have a planning process?
BHB follows a proven planning process that has assisted many customers. This process helps each customer develop a realistic budget, and puts them on the path to transitioning their home into the way they live today. BHB’s seven steps to remodeling project success include:
- Initial Customer Meeting and Project Overview
- Conceptual Design and Project Development
- Design Planning and Project Selections
- Scheduling and Build Agreement
- Construction Budget and Selection Approval
- CONSTRUCTION & BUILD
- Continuing Care
“It is the rule of three; there is Good, Cheap and Fast. You can have any two; Good and Cheap, won’t be Fast, Cheap and Fast, won’t be Good; Good and Fast, won’t be Cheap.” … Make your choice. BHB is Good and Fast… Quality work in a reasonable amount of time.