Regardless of what type of new construction, renovation or remodel project you may be involved in as an owner, you will likely receive operation and maintenance manuals. These will be provided by your contractor generally at project closeout around the time of punch list completion. You may get a single 1″ binder or a dozen…
In any new construction, remodel or renovation project the accuracy of your project estimate is defined by the details presented in your scope of work. Without a detailed project scope, you are leaving it up to the bidding contractors to make assumptions on what you want. This may result in wide ranging cost estimates and will…
If you’re not familiar with the phrase “aging-in-place”, you may be soon. We’ve all heard how much the U.S. Baby Boomer population is increasing with a current estimate of approximately 77,000,000 in the US alone today. And with that comes an image of older consumers “winding down” as the years progress and simplifying their lives…
It goes without saying that if you notice water or dampness in your basement you have a problem somewhere that needs to be addressed. You can generally complete basement water leak repair yourself with the right tools and right information without having to hire a contractor. The internet and YouTube are ripe with videos and…
If you are considering a remodel for a room in your home or if you’re planning to sell your home and need to make some updates, it’s important that whatever work you do is done correctly and meets all governing code requirements. This can be a daunting task whether doing the work yourself or outsourcing…
Look up! It’s easy for forget the importance of proper lighting in a kitchen remodel design. You spend a ton of time researching cabinets, appliances and flooring and then stick with that same (possibly outdated) flickering fluorescent light that came with the house you bought. Kitchen lighting (and, yes, ceiling fans) can do more than just…
One of the more dominant features, when considering kitchen remodeling ideas, are your kitchen countertops. Aesthetically pleasing kitchen counters are important but it should also be highly functional and tailored to your lifestyle. Listed below are some of the more commonly used materials for kitchen countertops along with pros and cons for each. If you’re…
Part of a kitchen renovation is remodeling your kitchen cabinets and/or flooring. How you use your kitchen will help determine the best selection and type of materials to use. Many times, when we think of a kitchen renovation, we think about resurfacing kitchen cabinets or adding a kitchen island or updating appliances but do you consider…
Temporary storage of construction materials, whether on-site or off-site is a little more involved than you may think. Whether you are involved in new construction, home renovation or remodel, at times it is necessary to purchase materials in advance of their scheduled installation to ensure your project continues to move forward. What are stored construction…
Depending on what type of construction project you are undertaking, whether it be new construction, home remodel or renovation you may have to consider the need for Professional Liability Insurance coverage. In the instance of new construction if your project has been designed using the services of an architect, the architect should carry this type of…
Overhead Costs – The Difference Between Direct and Indirect
Included in every estimate for any construction or reno...
Your Risk When a Contractor Does Not Pull Permits
Whether performing remodel work or new construction, wh...
Contractor Markup – What are you really paying?
Contractor markup is a given when hiring a contractor f...
Construction Contingency May Be a Point of Contention When Building
A construction contingency, as it relates to a build pr...
Construction Errors have a Claim Statute by State
Construction errors or defects can be simply described...
