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New Home Construction
Remodeling Projects
Siding Replacement
Window Replacement
New Home Construction
Should I find a lot before I find a builder?
You can and this often is the case. However, many times a builder will have access to lots that you may not be aware of or can help you locate a lot based on the features and attributes that you have in mind.
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Should I find a lot before I select a house plan?
Many homeowners become very frustrated and disappointed when trying to find a lot to fit a specific house plan. It is usually preferable to find the lot that meets your criteria and then work with your builder to determine the best plan to take advantage of the lot features.
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How long does the building process take?
If you stay committed to the process and are willing to work with your builder to meet requested timelines (e.g. color selections, tile and carpet selections, preferred fixtures, etc.), most homes can be completed within a five - six month time frame.
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What should I expect from my builder?
Your builder is working with you to create your special home. This requires a builder who is willing to partner with you and take responsibility for delivering the quality and features you all agree to. In order to deliver a quality product, you want a builder who can visualize the end product and translate into the detail that you can relate to. Reliability, responsiveness, a list of high quality sub-contractors, and a strong knowledge base are qualities that you should expect.
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Remodeling Projects
Are permits really necessary?
Yes. Attempting to do plumbing, electrical and/or structural work without the appropriate permits has caused many to jeopardize the safety and value of their properties. Working with a licensed contractor will ensure that the alterations you are making are not only safe but legal.
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Which projects will add the most value to my property?
Much depends on how your house compares to others in the same area and price range. You should check this thoroughly. Spending a large amount on a remodel does not automatically equate to the same amount of added property value. Based on research conducted by experts in the remodeling field, the most popular projects are upgrading an outdated kitchen, adding a second bathroom, or remodeling an old bathroom.
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What are some of the surprises I should watch out for?
Don’t start a project without ensuring the right permits are in place. You will need multiple permits for most projects. Older houses often require an upgrade of the plumbing and wiring which is not always considered at the beginning of the project.
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How should I prepare for a remodeling project?
Take about two weeks to prepare by clearing out the space and remove all valuables and breakable items. Make room in a garage for building materials and required products. Set up a temporary method for usual kitchen or bathroom facilities, etc.
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Do the contractors have to use my bathroom facilities?
No, you can request that your contractor place a portable toilet outside the property. You should also be clear about other preferences, such as no smoking in the house, using water, leaving food and drink containers, etc.
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Siding Replacement
How do I determine if my siding needs to be replaced?
There are many reasons to replace siding. Please review the following.
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I am thinking about selling my house. Should I replace the siding first?
If your siding is in need of replacement, it is generally advisable to do this prior to selling your home. Siding WILL become an issue during the selling process and it is not unusual for a siding replacement to be either a condition of sale, or a negotiating point where you will be forced to offer a sizeable discount to the buyer.
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How long does a siding replacement project usually take to complete?
This will vary depending on the size of your home and the time of year (and weather conditions). Most projects are usually completed within a 7-14 day period with an additional 2-4 days for painting.
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What happens if it rains during the siding replacement process?
Your siding project will not be impacted other than with a possible delay for painting. If the siding project takes place in the winter months or during particularly bad weather, the installers will only tear off siding in portions that can be replaced within the same day period.
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Window Replacement
How can I determine the best window replacement product for my home?
You have a variety of choices relative to the type of window product. For example, if you are looking for a low maintenance, energy efficient product, you should select vinyl windows. Other choices include wood and aluminum windows. Window manufacturers all typically supply products that meet industry standards. Selection, therefore, is generally based on the most cost effective product that meets your design and efficiency needs.
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How long will it take to complete my window replacement project?
This can vary depending on the size of your home and the number of windows to be replaced. Most window replacement projects are usually completed in one day, based on standard retrofit practices.
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What is Low-E?
In recent years, manufacturers have introduced a wide range of energy efficient window products to the building industry - from insulated glass units and thermal spaces to tinted glass and low-emissity coatings. Low-emissivity (low-E) glass is becoming the preferred choice among builders, remodelers and consumers looking for new construction and replacement windows. Emissivity measures the amount of heat that is emitted from a window. The lower the level of emissivity, the more efficient the window. Emissivity levels generally range from 0 to 1.
Low-E windows have a clear, microscopically thin coating on one side of the glass. This special coating, made of silver and metal oxide, is placed on windowpanes to reduce the amount of heat they give off through radiation.
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What does the installation process entail?
Professional installers will carefully remove your current windows and replace with the new product ensuring that moisture and air will not enter your home around the new windows. At the end of the project, the installers will clean the work area and leave in a safe condition and clean condition.
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What kind of warranty coverage does the window product and installation carry?
The window product normally carries a lifetime warranty. Installation services are covered for a one-year period following the completion of the project.
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