Design & Build

Our design-build process makes it easy to have the home addition you’ve dreamed of.

 

Have you been dreaming about turning your current space into a more spacious home or changing how you use it? The idea of taking on the major remodel or addition needed to make your home everything you want can seem intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be.

Design and build your addition with expert craftsmanship.

 

At i love renovations, we specialize in additions and whole home remodels, and with years of experience transforming houses to meet our clients’ needs, we are ready to help. While every project is unique, our experienced team knows how to approach each renovation with skill and respect for your existing home.

The Design Process

 

Design is where it all begins. Building a home addition or undertaking a major floor plan change in your existing home can be both exciting and intimidating. At i love renovations, we believe that thorough planning and a well-thought-out design eliminate those worries. The benefits of a design are endless. It provides a real look at what value is being created, a virtual walk-through so you know how the new paces will interact and function, plus it gives you the necessary drawings for your permit, and a document you can obtain accurate pricing from. It also assists in maintaining a well-run project.

STEP 1: INITIAL CONSULTATION

During the initial consultation, we walk through your home, discussing your initial thoughts on where the addition makes the most sense. While some homeowners already have an idea of what they want, this is our time to open the lines of communication with you as a homeowner, share ideas, and figure out your space and your needs.

STEP 2: BALLPARK PRICING

After the initial consultation, we put together some ballpark pricing, based on our discussion of your needs and wants. Since most homeowners have never done a major renovation project before, this general pricing can help you make an informed decision regarding if the renovation makes sense for your home.

STEP 3: REVIEW COSTS & FINANCING OPTIONS

Homeowners have numerous options in the marketplace for financing their renovations. After receiving the ballpark pricing, it’s time to evaluate your personal finances or speak with banks about financing options. We can help connect you to a mortgage specialist if needed.

STEP 4: DESIGN AGREEMENT

After receiving financial verification, and approving the ballpark, we move to the design agreement. This agreement outlines how the design will evolve, what’s included, and the timelines to complete.

STEP 5: SCOPE OF WORK & PROJECT COSTS

Upon completion of the final floor plans, we complete a proposal with the actual costs involved. The scope of work & proposal is essentially the contract for the project and requires homeowner approval. Time to review the proposal is a must, this is the time for questions, revisions, and clarifications.

STEP 6: SIGNED CONTRACT, DEPOSIT, & SCHEDULE

Once the scope of work is approved, we require a signed contract and deposit to hold your spot on our schedule. (Typically, projects are scheduled 3 to 4 months in advance.) We finish our current work before starting any new projects, meaning any start date is an estimate. Thsi is a good time to start planning temporary accommodation if it’s been recommended. Once our current projects have ended and all permits have been received, construction will begin!

STEP 7: PERMIT DRAWINGS & ENGINEERING IS COMPLETED

Upon contract signing, permit drawings are completed and engineering is stamped. We then apply for the permit and work directly with the municipality on any revisions they require.

STEP 8: MATERIAL & FINISH SELECTIONS

Between contract signing and the start of construction, the goal is to select as many finishes as possible. The exact layout is completed and tile, flooring, cabinets and finishes are selected. This helps projects run more smoothly, without the rush of decision-making during construction.

STEP 9: CONSTRUCTION START

Once our current projects have ended and all permits have been received, construction will begin!

The Build Process

Once the design is completed, and the permit is issued the building process can begin. This is where you get to see the design vision and your dreams come to life. Our expert craftsmen bring the highest quality of work to every renovation, from demolition to the finishing touches. Working with our team of vetted sub-trades, and trusted vendors take all the stress away.

STEP 1: FOUNDATION & DIRT WORK

This is the most important part of the project. The foundation must be right! We start by installing a solid footer with block, along with drainage and grading.

STEP 2: FRAMING & INTERIOR DEMOLITION

Our carpenters will install the exterior floor, wall, and roof framing. Once watertight, we will move to the inside to install dust protection and complete interior demolition and framing.

STEP 3: ROUGH-IN MECHANICAL WORK

The plumbing, electrical, and HVAC work is laid out and installed according to the construction drawings and your selections.

STEP 4: EXTERIOR FINISHES

While the subcontractors are working on the inside, our carpenters are working on the outside. This phase is when the siding, roofing, and any brickwork get completed. If there is a deck or patio, they will also be installed at this time

STEP 5: INSULATION & DRYWALL

Once the mechanical work is roughed-in, checked, and inspected, the insulation will be installed followed by drywall hanging and finishing.

STEP 6: PAINTING

We paint all walls and ceilings prior to installing flooring or trim to eliminate any overspray or damage to other finishes.

STEP 7: TILE & WOOD FLOORING

After all the walls and ceilings are painted, the bathroom tile is set, and hardwood flooring is installed and finished.

STEP 8: CABINETS & INTERIOR TRIM

This is what you have been waiting for — the kitchen cabinets! The cabinets are installed by the same carpenters that build them. Interior doors are hung, window trim installed, and baseboards applied.

STEP 9: FINAL FINISHES

Kitchen countertops, plumbing fixtures, backsplash tile, appliances, and electrical fixtures are installed. Trim paint and wall touch ups are also addressed. Once final inspections are performed, it is officially time to start enjoying your new addition!!

Let’s Get Building

It’s time to give the home you love the attention it deserves, with intimidation-free design-build services.

Let i love renovations partner with you to imagine your home’s potential and see it come to life.

CONTACT US

P.O. box 26025, 650 Portland Street, Dartmouth, N.S

Mon-Fri: 07.30 am – 08.00 pm

Recent Posts