How do you handle changes to the project scope?
Changes are managed through a formal, written change order process, with all details itemized and approved before proceeding.
How do you keep homeowners informed throughout the project?
Our lead carpenter, who also serves as the project manager, is on-site daily to handle all communications and ensure expectations are met.
What preparations should homeowners make before renovations?
For any renovation project we advise clients to evacuate the space of all personal belongings. In many cases cabinetry is being removed and discarded ,so all personal effects should be removed. Our team is equipped to assist with moving larger items such as furniture and appliances into a safe location on the first day of the renovation.
How do you handle unforeseen issues?
We plan extensively to try and avoid change orders. In the event that something is uncovered, we keep clients informed of what has been discovered and will propose the resolution with a fixed price. We will get approval prior to proceeding.
What happens if we are not home during the day?
We have found that our work schedule of 7:30 am to 5:30 pm typically provides time in the morning or evening for us to connect with our clients. We value face-to-face communications throughout the length of a project. Clients who leave earlier in the morning often allow access to their home utilizing keys stored in a lock box or a garage entry code. If for any reason the worksite must be left unattended or we are done working before you are, we will secure appropriately (and give you a courtesy phone call).
How do you access the work area inside the home?
We typically use garage, side, or back doors, whenever possible. However, sometimes the front door is the best pathway. Regardless, we always take extra steps to protect the entry points, which include laying down floor protection leading to the work area.
How much noise is created during a remodel?
Noise varies, especially on demolition days, or during the installation of certain products that require tools such as saws, impact drivers, wet saws, vacuums, etc. Our lead carpenters onsite will keep you informed of the days events and can identify days/times that may be noisier than others.
How much dust and debris should I expect during a remodel?
We work hard to quarantine the work area with zip walls and plastic, and use HEPA filters to minimize dust. Whenever possible, we are big believers in specialty tools from Festool that further assist us in our effort to keep the work environment clean.
How long do home remodeling projects typically take?
Project timelines vary: bathroom remodels typically take 3-5 weeks, kitchen remodels 6-8 weeks, and basement remodels 6-7 weeks, depending on the overall scope. These are general timelines and your specific project will be provided an schedule, setting expectations before the project ever starts.
Where do workers use the restroom during a remodeling project?
As a courtesy to our clients, we provide a port-a-potty on-site for all our workers and trade partners for the duration of the project.
How do you handle pets during a remodel?
We recommend keeping pets in a safe, quiet area away from the work zone, or arranging for them to stay with a friend or at a pet daycare during more intense phases of the project.
Can I contact the Ayars team for minor upgrades?
Here at Ayars, we prefer to apply our time and expertise to projects with major impacts (e.g. bathroom remodeling, kitchen remodeling, and finished basements). Minor, disconnected, or one-off tasks such as painting, installing appliances, repairs, or electrical work are best left to other contractors.
As craftsmen, we look to enhance your enjoyment of your entire home through all the work — it’s not just topical for us! Throughout the whole process, we value a collaborative relationship with our clients, nurturing their ideas, and going above and beyond what they expect. That is the kind of project we look forward to.
Will the renovation process leave my home a mess?
There’s no getting around the fact that the renovation process can be disruptive, but Ayars Complete Home Improvements takes the utmost care to minimize any mess we leave behind — through floor protection, zip-walls with plastic barriers, a HEPA air filtration system, and the introduction of a “negative draft” to keep debris contained within the work area.
What kind of home interior renovation projects add the most value?
Outside of kitchen and bathroom renovations, home interior renovation projects that add a lot of value include:
- Installing or refinishing hardwood flooring
- Finished basements
- Adding or expanding closet space
For more in-depth coverage of return on investment, visit our Cost Vs. Value page.
What is the difference between interior remodeling and interior renovation?
The difference between interior remodeling and interior renovation is starting over vs. making the best of what you already have. Although many homeowners think their spaces aren’t working for them at all, it may only be a question of rearranging and optimizing an existing home layout.
Why might vinyl posts and railings be a good alternative for me?
Vinyl posts and rails have become the go-to for many wood railing/posts applications. Not all vinyl products are considered equal depending on the application. There are structural posts, railing baluster options, as well as different types of vinyl or other composite materials to consider.
Do products fade overtime?
UV rays are always working against the exterior of your home. Combined with acid rain and other elements, it is inevitable that there will be some fade to the products installed on the exterior of the home. The additives used in today’s products resemble that of your car’s dashboard; many of the vinyl siding & trim products have a much greater tolerance for today’s conditions and show beautifully for years to come.
Wood studs or steel studs?
Our preferred method of framing for basements is always steel studs. We believe minimizing the presence of wood can be beneficial in the event there are ever any water issues, as well as to limit the attraction of insects.
Is drywall in a basement OK? Do I need a drop ceiling?
Drywall is installed in basements all the time. Ensuring the basement is dry and taking precautions to make sure it stays that way is key. The ceilings can also be drywalled as long as there are no mechanical access issues. It is no different than having wiring, plumbing, and HVAC on the first or second floors. The only components to take into consideration are clean-outs, shut-offs, or other important access points since they are typically located in the basement.
How might I use my finished basement?
In most cases, basements are used for additional living space or recreational areas. Sometimes this may include a dry bar/wet bar, which can be custom-designed to fit your needs. Finished basements are often more attractive than additions due to the benefit of not expanding the home’s footprint and are usually less expensive per square foot.
