Frequently Asked Questions About Remodeling

 

This is my first remodeling project, where do I even start?

We understand remodeling projects can be overwhelming. The first step of choosing a contractor might be the most important decision you make for the outcome of your project. We invite you to visit our site to learn more About Us and How We Work. To see what our past customers are saying, take a look at our Testimonials. Finding someone you can trust that will deliver the best value and highest quality for your money is the ultimate goal. The time and research you put forth now in finding the right contractor will pay dividends for many years to come.

How much will it cost to do my project?

With all the variables involved in remodeling, the extent of work is the largest determining factor. Explore pictures of Our Work to see past projects and their price ranges. For additional information, we recommend checking out the Cost vs Value Report published every year by Remodeling Magazine. This is an excellent resource that uses real data from our local Spokane market to determine project costs as well as the value those projects retain at resale.

Is it smart to get 3 bids?

It depends on what your criteria is on picking your contractor. You cannot judge a contractor, the kind of work they will do, if they will be on time, or how they run their business by looking at a bid. All three bids will vary in price but not all three will contain the same materials, processes, and workmanship or talent making them impossible to compare. Ultimately, the price difference will be the deciding factor as everyone is taught to throw out the lowest and highest and accept the middle bid. But why? Based on what?

If you needed heart surgery, would you ever consider asking three surgeons to submit bids and then go with the lowest price? The answer is an emphatic, "Of course not!" However, many homeowners think nothing of shelling out tens of thousands of dollars and opening up their home to a remodeler whom they have selected based solely on his price.

The price alone only tells you one aspect. We don't take short cuts or cut corners. We want to be up front in telling you that, so if you are shopping prices, our price will probably not be the lowest and you will be wasting your time with us.

The bitterness of poor quality remains long after the sweetness of a low price is forgotten.
- Benjamin Franklin

Can I supply my own materials?

Throughout our 48+ years in business we stand behind the materials we use because we know they work and will stand the test of time. Quality and craftsmanship are our number one priorities. By supplying materials we guarantee a smooth job progression. Shipping damages, product quality control problems, and missing parts will happen occasionally.

While buying the parts originally may be the same price we would pay, in the long run those parts could cost you double the amount or more. If anything goes wrong you will have the responsibility of not only replacing those parts, but any surrounding or attached parts that get damaged in the removal process. Additionally, you will have to pay more than twice for the labor; once for the first install, for the removal and again for the installation of the correct materials.

When we supply the materials we take on the responsibility of replacement at no cost to you to ensure your job is done right.

Can I do the work?

Everyone likes to swing a hammer right!? But it's not always that simple. We get asked all the time if the customer can do some of the work. We will consider the possibility on a case by case basis. If something is done improperly or not in a timely manner, who is responsible? This can lead to additional job costs for extra labor and materials to correct mistakes and delays. We encourage you to be involved throughout the whole process and ask any questions along the way. But in order to keep your job running smoothly and on track, we prefer to do the work. That's why you hired us right!?

Who will be working in my home?

We take pride in our abilities and what we can offer, therefore, we do not use sub-contractors for every aspect of the job. This way it is not a different person coming to your house everyday. You get to see us each and everyday! No scheduling conflicts and your job does not sit idle waiting for the next sub to start. And finally, too many middlemen just raise the cost for you!

We loved that you were on site to oversee the work and did not subcontract it out...
- Drew & Alice Anderson Spokane, WA

Will there be a big mess during the project?

Remodeling is a messy, dirty job. But that doesn't mean it can't be managed and contained. We treat your house as if it were our own. We not only clean up at the end of each day, but multiple times throughout the day. Quality work cannot be performed in a dirty environment. It is more than just safety for you and your family, but stress free peace of mind. That is why the vacuum is the first tool to come off the truck and the last to be loaded every single day.

Not only did you clean up your own messes you cleaned up some of mine as well!...
- Pat & Dee Cerutti Spokane, WA

Do you specialize in this type of remodeling?

Remodeling is a specialty business. Not all contractors do remodeling projects, just as not all doctors are specialists; some have a general practice. In interviewing contractors for your remodeling project, evaluate their experience at doing the type of project you have in mind. A fence/deck builder may not be the best person to do your kitchen or bathroom. Experience in remodeling is a must.

My house was built 3 months ago so there is no asbestos right?

Many homeowners believe if their structure was built after 1989 then it cannot contain any asbestos. But contrary to popular belief, asbestos has never been banned by the EPA, and still to this day the U.S. does not have an outright ban on the substance. There is simply no way to know if materials contain asbestos based solely on the date of manufacture or what the material looks like. The only way to be sure is to have an AHERA inspector take samples to be tested in a lab. Some of the common materials we test are vinyl flooring, cove base, ceramic tile adhesive and grout, wallpaper, laminate countertops, and popcorn ceilings. Testing and abatement are not only important for your family's health and ours while working, but also protects you from any liability in the future if you sell your home.