Hints & Tips

Celtic Woodcraft Design, Inc. provides expert design remodeling services to stream line the organization of your building project. In order to pursue a successful remodel it requires complete focus and planning for all members involved.

Here are 8 steps for a successful remodel.

1. Choose wisely- Hire Celtic Woodcraft Design, Inc. as your general contractor. This, we believe is the starting point for your successful remodeling project and/or addition.
   
   
2. It's about the relationship- You are hiring us to come into your home, your precious family space, and turn it upside down. It is essential that you feel 100% comfortable with us. The operative word is 'trust'.
   
   
3. Value-added Service- The key word here is value. We pride ourselves on providing excellent value in craftsmanship and customer service. That means we will do what we promise. It means using high quality building products and high quality building practices. It means having a schedule and sticking to it.
   
   
4. Ask a lot of questions- Remember your favorite teacher...the one who told you “the only stupid question is the one you did not ask.” We encourage you to ask lots of questions during our pre-construction meetings, as well as during the entire construction process.
   
   
5. A good contractor is worth the wait- A good contractor is a busy contractor. At Celtic Woodcraft Design, Inc. we generate so much business from referral and repeat clients, it keeps us busy and in demand year-round. To take the uncertainty out of waiting, we offer a construction retainer agreement that 'retains' us as your contractor for your project, as well as establishes a project commencement date. We will provide you with detailed pricing for the project so you will know exactly how your hard-earned money will be used on your remodel.
   
   
6. Do not sign a contract that maxes out your budget- The truth of remodeling is that it is impossible to know all of the issues going into any project. Even with the best planning, surprises can arise. Sometimes the surprise comes in the form of a hidden condition that is revealed during demolition and will need to be repaired, (i.e. rotted framing, faulty wiring). Therefore you should always hold money in reserve. This is a good rule of thumb and what we call 'contingency'. But, if you do not need it, and most homeowners usually don't, you will be glad it was there.
   
   
7. Shortcuts and Long cuts- We don't believe there is any such thing as a shortcut in the remodeling process. You get what you pay for! If you take a shortcut to save money, it will probably cost you more in the long run. Better to invest in excellent framing, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems. You can always upgrade your refrigerator or door knobs later.
   
   
8. Things to consider- Depending upon the size and scope of your project, you might consider moving out of your house for the duration of the construction project. Remodeling is noisy and dusty. Many clients move out when possible, and are glad they did. Just ask a friend who has lived through a remodel. The overall experience is far more pleasant if you are not living in the middle of the construction process. Once again, moving out is hinged on the scope of your remodel.