-Frequently Asked Questions-
Here are some answers to some of our most frequently asked questions. If you have a question not answered here, please call or email us.
Who will be my main contact once construction begins?
Once construction begins, your contact person will be your project manager. The project manager will stop by the job site at least twice a week to ensure that everything is running smoothly, and to keep the lines of communication open with the crew and the homeowner.
How should I communicate any questions, concerns, changes, etc., that may arise during my job?
Primarily, you should contact your project manager at his cell phone number during normal business hours or in case of an emergency. We will also establish a "communication corner" somewhere in your house where you may leave notes, change orders, etc. You should always address your communication to your project manager, not to workers on the job.
What is the general sequence of events that will take place during my project?
Depending upon the size, scope and jurisdiction of your project, you can expect the following activities to take place in this general order and timeframe listed below. Keep in mind that there is overlap with some of these activities.
Description of Activity General Timeframe
Permit Application 1 - 3 weeks
Pre-construction Meeting 1 day
Order & Delivery of Lumber 1 - 3 days
Demolition / Rough Framing 1 - 2 weeks
Final Product Selection at Showroom 3 - 5 days
Rough Plumbing 1 week
Order & Delivery of Drywall & Insulation 1 - 3 days
Rough Electric 1 week
Framing, Plumbing & Electrical Inspections 2 - 5 days
Insulation 1 - 2 days
Drywall Hanging 1 - 2 weeks
Drywall Finishing 1 - 2 weeks
Drywall Texturing 1 - 2 days
Installation of Doors & Trim 1 - 3 weeks
Installation of Tile 3 - 7 days
Installation of Cabinets & Built-ins 1 - 6 weeks
Painting 1 - 2 weeks
Finish Plumbing 3 - 7 days
Installation of Accessories 3 - 5 days
Finish Electric 2 - 5 days
Installation of Floor Covering 1 week
Final Inspections 2 - 5 days
Final Touch Up 1 week
What should I expect during the construction process?
Brothers goal is to give you a finished product that you will enjoy and that will bring you value for many years to come. While we seek to do everything we can to minimize the impact of the project on your daily life, a construction project is, by its very nature, noisy, dusty and involves workers regularly coming and going at your home. The temporary inconvenience you will experience will be offset by the anticipation of the long-term benefits you will gain.
What measures are taken to reduce the amount of dust and other debris that results from construction?
There are several actions that are taken to ensure that your home is protected from debris that results from the job. Canvas runners are placed along the path from the front door or entrance way to the site of the job and are removed at the end of each day. Heating/cooling registers are covered or stuffed with fiberglass insulation. Depending on the situation, plastic sheets are sometimes hung to section off the work area from adjoining rooms. Debris from the job is removed on a regular basis to avoid any accumulation in the house.
Where are materials being used for the job generally stored?
Generally, materials are stored in a designated area of the basement, determined by the project manager. Occasionally, there may be a need to temporarily store materials on the driveway, or in a section of the garage that is predetermined with the cooperation of the homeowner. These items are moved to the work area as soon as possible.
How should I care for my house pets during construction?
It depends how sensitive your pet is to noise and dust. While we don't necessarily recommend that you kennel your pet during a project, we always recommend you put them in a safe area, away from the construction work for their own safety. While we take precautions, we cannot be responsible for making sure pets don't get out of the house or for their safety if they wander into the construction area.
How do I go about selecting products for my project?
Early in the project we will make an appointment with you to visit our showroom. During this time, you will have the opportunity to select items such as tile and carpet, and make any changes on items such as plumbing fixtures, cabinets, etc. We will have samples and catalogs available and we will be there to help guide you through the selection process. You will have a few days to make your decisions before the final selections need to be made. If you choose to purchase select items on your own, e.g., towel bars, special lighting fixtures, etc., you will be responsible for insuring they are available at the job when the time for installation comes. Changes to the original proposal will be adjusted with credits or extra charges accordingly.
Why can't I wait to pick out my selections?
We seek to build very timely projects. In order to do that, all materials must be ordered and delivered on time to ensure that everything is selected and in route to avoid delays, shortages, back orders, or any problems that may arise. Additionally, other items need special preparation long before they are installed, or other items such as carpet or hardwood floors have long lead times prior to installation.
How and when should I make payments?
Payments are to be made according to the payment schedule laid forth in your proposal. Generally, you should anticipate making payments upon completion of framing, completion of drywall work, completion of doors and trim installation, completion of painting, and substantial completion of the project (finish plumbing, finish electric, floor covering installation, etc.) which includes all change orders. A final payment of five percent of the original project price is held back until completion of the final punch list. Checks may be given to the project manager or left for pick up at the designated communication area. Please do not mail payments.