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Improving upon an existing structure takes more effort in all of the noted areas [sometimes much more] AND two other critical areas:
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- Planning - an existing slate... sometimes with a lousy picture that needs to be corrected. An experienced architect AND a builder with diverse remodeling experience at this stage are worth their weight in gold. The architect helps with concepts and design while the builder ads the reality of costs and scheduling. If an experienced builder/remodeler is not involved at this point, cost overruns are guaranteed. Let me repeat that last point because in all of our 30+ years working on projects, we’ve yet to see an exception to this: they are guaranteed. Not a good way to begin any venture... unless cost is not a consideration.
- Inputs - the same holds true for a remodeling project except for the fact that you need to match existing materials OR take into account that changing something in the new affects the old. This usually has significant implications on cost.. but if you’re comfortable with random price increases, it’s a non-issue.
- Construction - the new construction aspect is the easiest to predict and control.... which is why new construction project costs are typically more predictable.
- Tie-In - this is a wild card and the only way to properly predict this as a project cost is through experience. If your contractor lacks this relative to remodeling, be prepared for the surprise cost increases.
- Reconstruction - When something old is next to something new, generally it doesn’t look the same. Part of an experienced remodeler’s job is to help the client see this reality in advance and help them plan their job costs to avoid it... or prepare them for that inevitability.
- Staging - In remodeling, this is VASTLY different. The site needs to be set up for construction AND protection. Additionally, the contractor needs to address the fact that people will be living there. So, things like cigarette disposal, dust control, construction zones, and safety loom large. If your contractor is inexperienced, your family’s safety becomes a concern. TRY THIS: When interviewing your contractors, ask them how they plan to stage your jobsite. Make them be specific. This whole concept doesn’t even occur to the inexperienced remodeling contractor. You’ll be stunned by the responses you’ll get.
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As homeowners, a majority of your lives revolve around the place where you live.... and you’re probably busy. The last thing you need is aggravation from a contractor. Yet you can’t do a quick Google search of the construction industry that will point toward the many new construction companies trying to redirect themselves toward remodeling. You have to figure that out for yourself BEFORE you hire a contractor.
If you remember nothing else from this page, remember this: THERE IS A STEEP LEARNING CURVE FOR CONTRACTORS THAT YOU CAN’T AFFORD TO HAVE HAPPEN ON YOUR PROJECT.
Research SkyTop Builders and you’ll be happy you did. Then Contact Us!
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Follow us on....
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BUILDING REMODELING EXCELLENCE in Asheville, North Carolina
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Published by SkyTop Builders, LLC 2010. All rights reserved
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