Home Remodeling Tips

Your home . . . Where families grow and make memories that are woven into the very fabric of every room. A home is where children and grandchildren escape the world to a place of love, safety, and comfort. In this unique escape, all the worries of the world quietly drift away and life is about sharing, caring, and laughter. This is where you grow dreams and memories.

If you’re considering a home remodel, the following tips can help you make sure the experience is a satisfying one:

• Use only a contractor who is licensed and bonded, and has both general liability and workers compensation insurance. Protect yourself and your home!
• Make sure your contractor provides you with a written contract illustrating the payment schedule, warranties, insurances, start and completion dates, and pricing broken down into the 25 major construction categories so you can clearly see where the money for your home remodeling project is being spent.
• Make sure the contract includes all materials, labor, taxes, permits, and inspections. Never make the final payment to the contractor until the Building Department has singed off on the job as complete.
• Never pay with cash. Always pay with a check so you have a record of your payments.
• Use only a design and build contractor who performs the architecture, structural engineering, title 24 requirements, homeowner association paperwork, all plan checking with the Planning and Building Departments, and acquires all permits. This type of company illustrates responsibility, confidence, professionalism, and the necessary skills to bring the project together correctly.
• Make sure your contractor acquires all the necessary permits from the building department. This is the only way you can be sure your home will be remodeled correctly so you and your family are safe and will enjoy your newly remodeled home for many years to come. Don’t overlook this important step!
• Hire only a contractor who is a member of the Master Builders Association (MBA), the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI), the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA), and the Building Trades Association (BTA). It’s important that your contractor belong to these organizations, as they have certified the competency and professionalism of your contractor.
• Look for a contractor who provides you with professional Architectural drawings and structural engineering using programs like AutoCAD where you will see your new home grow before any work begins. Your eyes will gleam and your thoughts soar and excitement builds as you begin to see your dreams crystallize.
• Visit a personal fixtures consultant to coordinate your bathroom and kitchen suite of fixtures, accessories, and appliances.

Professional contractors use professional brand name products in your remodeling project, because they are proven, top quality, and guaranteed. When you’re interviewing contractors, ask if they will use the following manufacturers when planning your home remodel:

• Lauzon® hardwood floors that warm and charm your home.
• Fabrica® carpets that warm your feet and provide that finishing touch that accents your home remodeling project.
• Architectural tiles and stones that capture the timeless elegance of classic artesian craftsmanship.
• Energy efficient Halo® Air-Tight™ and Nora® Air-Tight™ halogen recessed lighting to create that luxurious ambient illumination.
• Genuine jewel like beveled edge mirrors, glass, and wardrobe doors that reflect timeless beauty.
• Solid Craftmaster® sculptured doors using Baldwin® finishes that bring to life your personal style.
• Milgard®, Andersen®, Marvin®, and Velux® windows and sky lights fill your home with beautiful, spacious, uplifting natural light and fresh air.
• Fine architectural finishes using Dunn Edwards® paints and lacquers to entice the senses and relax the soul.
• Handcrafted cabinets made from select grades of hardwoods that embrace both tradition and excellence.
• Stone, granite, Zodiaq®, or Corian® countertops and splashes that bring natural beauty and elegance to your home.

Thoroughly investigate any company or contractor when evaluating possible projects partners. When you consider that your home remodel will not only add financial value to your home, but is also the place where your dreams take flight and memories are created, you’ll want to make sure you put such an important endeavor in the right contractor’s hands.

About the Author
Dan A. Derkum
Design-and-Build Contractor
http://www.DADsConstruction.com
dan@dadsconstruction.com