A long time ago I realized that "To code" was said to express that there was a minimum level of construction technique and materials that was required to pass an inspection. This "To Code" language was used to instill confidence in the client to know that even if a...
This is the sentiment of many of our clients. I share the feeling of working closely with my clients and believe we bring something special to the table. It is not a tangible thing, it is just the way we roll. Conventional wisdom says that as a contractor, I should be...
I recently taught a class at community education. Naturally, I ask, what do you want to know and this is what it boiled down to. For a myriad of reasons tuning up the home by remodeling is high on the list of TO-DO's Money is Cheap (right now) The number struck me as...
The times they are a-changing. There is a palpable shift in the way we must think and act to keep up with the changes in our industry. Every day something else hits us and we are either going to sink or swim depending on how we react. As we know, how we react to...
The true cost of a remodeling project is typically more than you think. How can I say this with certainty? Because some of the costs are hidden. In fact, they are rarely known till the bloody end of the autopsy. The materials pricing used to be the most stable, it...
What a remodeling project should cost is a great question. "Hell If I Know" is usually the answer. Remodeling is not a commodity especially in older homes that I typically work on. For me, I take this responsibility seriously and need to do a few things first. Before...
Primary Suite Remodel & DeckThe Challenge Inaccurate plans were provided that had to get updated over the course of the project. The project is on a creek so lots of precautions were needed to keep erosion out of it. The Idea Create a primary suite that is...
Whole House RemodelThe Challenge The home was in the hillside district and in the WUI which means that the home has some extra requirements as far as firesafe and extra structural requirements. There had been an addition done to the house years prior that was not...
Whole House RemodelThe Challenge The property was occupied during design and the new owners were very occupied with their school aged children. Lots of deferred maintenance items had to be addressed. The Idea The home was purchased in advance of moving in with the...
Garage renovationThe Challenge The sagging roof caused be removed bracing over the years made it look like a sway-back horse. A chiropractic adjustment and some serious support were needed. Keeping with the historic look and feel of the garage was important. There...