Frequently Asked Questions
Remodeling FAQs
Q: Why is remodeling so hard?
A: If the thought of remodeling makes you anxious, you’re not alone. It’s a hassle most of us put off because it’s anything but easy. Your home is your personal space, and since you can’t just drop it off for repairs, you have to let people in. Remodeling can be messy, disruptive, and one of the pricier projects you’ll take on. It can throw off your routine, drain your wallet, and test your patience, so it’s no surprise it often gets delayed.
One of the toughest and most important parts of the process is picking the right contractor. There’s no simple way to gather all the info you need to make a smart choice. The upside is there are great professionals out there ready to guide you through the remodeling maze. The downside is there are also less-than-reliable ones. Doing your homework to find the right fit is effort well spent.
A: If the thought of remodeling makes you anxious, you’re not alone. It’s a hassle most of us put off because it’s anything but easy. Your home is your personal space, and since you can’t just drop it off for repairs, you have to let people in. Remodeling can be messy, disruptive, and one of the pricier projects you’ll take on. It can throw off your routine, drain your wallet, and test your patience, so it’s no surprise it often gets delayed.
One of the toughest and most important parts of the process is picking the right contractor. There’s no simple way to gather all the info you need to make a smart choice. The upside is there are great professionals out there ready to guide you through the remodeling maze. The downside is there are also less-than-reliable ones. Doing your homework to find the right fit is effort well spent.
Q: How do I choose a remodeling contractor?
A: Depending on the scope of your project, your contractor will have the single greatest impact on not only your personal satisfaction with the final product itself, but the “quality and ease” of the journey to get there. I've written a full-size article on this topic; I recommend reading it today. Click here to open full-size article.
A: Depending on the scope of your project, your contractor will have the single greatest impact on not only your personal satisfaction with the final product itself, but the “quality and ease” of the journey to get there. I've written a full-size article on this topic; I recommend reading it today. Click here to open full-size article.
Q: How much should my project cost?
A: Buying a new Honda Accord is straightforward—you can easily compare models, styles, options, and most importantly, the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). With that knowledge, you can decide if the car fits your budget and head to a dealership with a fair starting point for negotiations. In remodeling, however, there’s no such thing as an MSRP. You can research the cost of items like cabinets and countertops, but labor and other intangibles are harder to pin down due to the lack of formal standards and the variety of opinions. Quality installation—meaning work that’s not just structurally sound but also aesthetically pleasing—can be subjective. What one person sees as above average might be unacceptable to another. It’s like choosing a car built by a hundred different mechanics in a hundred different backyards—“buyer beware” is putting it mildly. Still, resources like Remodeling Magazine, published by Hanley-Wood LLC (now Zonda), offer cost estimates for typical projects based on annual surveys. This year’s update is available online. Treat this information as a guide; while some figures may be slightly off, they’re generally close. Just remember, every project is unique. Most remodeling references also suggest keeping about 10% of your budget in reserve for unexpected expenses.
2025 Cost vs. Value Report - Zonda
A: Buying a new Honda Accord is straightforward—you can easily compare models, styles, options, and most importantly, the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). With that knowledge, you can decide if the car fits your budget and head to a dealership with a fair starting point for negotiations. In remodeling, however, there’s no such thing as an MSRP. You can research the cost of items like cabinets and countertops, but labor and other intangibles are harder to pin down due to the lack of formal standards and the variety of opinions. Quality installation—meaning work that’s not just structurally sound but also aesthetically pleasing—can be subjective. What one person sees as above average might be unacceptable to another. It’s like choosing a car built by a hundred different mechanics in a hundred different backyards—“buyer beware” is putting it mildly. Still, resources like Remodeling Magazine, published by Hanley-Wood LLC (now Zonda), offer cost estimates for typical projects based on annual surveys. This year’s update is available online. Treat this information as a guide; while some figures may be slightly off, they’re generally close. Just remember, every project is unique. Most remodeling references also suggest keeping about 10% of your budget in reserve for unexpected expenses.
2025 Cost vs. Value Report - Zonda
Q: You want me to share my budget?!
A: Before starting any remodeling project, it’s worth taking time to review your finances and set a budget you can realistically afford, no matter the scope of the project. This is especially crucial for larger projects that involve modifying existing spaces. Coming up with a realistic budget is one thing, but sharing it with your remodeler can feel more challenging, as we’re often taught not to reveal too much too soon. Still, to truly partner with your remodeler and achieve your goals, you’ll need to share that information. Doing so early in the design stage helps create a plan that meets your needs, matches your style, and stays within your budget. Reviewing Cost vs. Value charts can also help you determine if your budget is on track, as realistic expectations are key to getting started.
A: Before starting any remodeling project, it’s worth taking time to review your finances and set a budget you can realistically afford, no matter the scope of the project. This is especially crucial for larger projects that involve modifying existing spaces. Coming up with a realistic budget is one thing, but sharing it with your remodeler can feel more challenging, as we’re often taught not to reveal too much too soon. Still, to truly partner with your remodeler and achieve your goals, you’ll need to share that information. Doing so early in the design stage helps create a plan that meets your needs, matches your style, and stays within your budget. Reviewing Cost vs. Value charts can also help you determine if your budget is on track, as realistic expectations are key to getting started.
Q: How can I ensure matching expectations?
A: Working with a remodeling contractor can get complicated, depending on the size and scope of the project. It’s easy for misunderstandings to happen when both sides start out with different expectations—not just about the work itself, but also how certain situations will be handled along the way. That’s why it’s so important to make sure both the customer and contractor are on the same page before the work begins. I like to spend plenty of time going over the details of your project, and the estimate I prepare serves as the first step in putting those shared expectations in writing.
A: Working with a remodeling contractor can get complicated, depending on the size and scope of the project. It’s easy for misunderstandings to happen when both sides start out with different expectations—not just about the work itself, but also how certain situations will be handled along the way. That’s why it’s so important to make sure both the customer and contractor are on the same page before the work begins. I like to spend plenty of time going over the details of your project, and the estimate I prepare serves as the first step in putting those shared expectations in writing.
Q: Please define "quality work"
A: When I talk about quality, I’m not only referring to the quality of the cabinets—that’s up to you and your budget. I’m talking about the quality of the work itself. Fine craftsmanship is a given, but true quality means doing things right, including the many intangibles that make a difference. In a quality-focused company, that mindset doesn’t come and go; it’s embedded in the core values and shapes decisions at every level. Quality work comes from skilled technicians, and the peace of mind that comes with an experienced remodeling team is one of those intangibles.
As a homeowner, it’s a trade-off: how much are you willing to pay for peace of mind versus how much risk you’re willing to take? It’s similar to choosing insurance—you can go with the cheapest option and take on more risk, or invest in a reputable professional with credentials and happy clients for lower risk but higher cost. Price is just one factor when choosing a contractor; experience, capability, and quality are equally important, as cutting corners in any of these can end up costing far more.
A: When I talk about quality, I’m not only referring to the quality of the cabinets—that’s up to you and your budget. I’m talking about the quality of the work itself. Fine craftsmanship is a given, but true quality means doing things right, including the many intangibles that make a difference. In a quality-focused company, that mindset doesn’t come and go; it’s embedded in the core values and shapes decisions at every level. Quality work comes from skilled technicians, and the peace of mind that comes with an experienced remodeling team is one of those intangibles.
As a homeowner, it’s a trade-off: how much are you willing to pay for peace of mind versus how much risk you’re willing to take? It’s similar to choosing insurance—you can go with the cheapest option and take on more risk, or invest in a reputable professional with credentials and happy clients for lower risk but higher cost. Price is just one factor when choosing a contractor; experience, capability, and quality are equally important, as cutting corners in any of these can end up costing far more.
Q: What about the estimate?
A: I take pride in providing accurate, detailed estimates that reflect my best professional assessment of what it will cost to bring your vision to life. My estimates include notes and annotations on items that may need further discussion, serving as a working document to encourage open communication. I tend to get quite detailed because it’s the best way to align our expectations. I’m not shy about sharing my opinion if I think a plan isn’t in your best interest, but I’ll always ask the right questions first to understand your short- and long-term goals. I won’t take on work if I believe it won’t add value to your home or if it seems like “over-remodeling.” If something raises a red flag, we’ll talk it through. This approach has cost me jobs before, but I sleep well knowing I’ve done the right thing and kept your best interests at heart. When comparing estimates, make sure they’re thorough and detailed so you can compare “apples to apples” and make an informed decision. At the very least, ensure costs for installed items are broken out so you can see exactly what the contractor is charging to complete the work.
A: I take pride in providing accurate, detailed estimates that reflect my best professional assessment of what it will cost to bring your vision to life. My estimates include notes and annotations on items that may need further discussion, serving as a working document to encourage open communication. I tend to get quite detailed because it’s the best way to align our expectations. I’m not shy about sharing my opinion if I think a plan isn’t in your best interest, but I’ll always ask the right questions first to understand your short- and long-term goals. I won’t take on work if I believe it won’t add value to your home or if it seems like “over-remodeling.” If something raises a red flag, we’ll talk it through. This approach has cost me jobs before, but I sleep well knowing I’ve done the right thing and kept your best interests at heart. When comparing estimates, make sure they’re thorough and detailed so you can compare “apples to apples” and make an informed decision. At the very least, ensure costs for installed items are broken out so you can see exactly what the contractor is charging to complete the work.
Q: Should I prepare for unknowns?
A: In new construction, you start from scratch with full control over the process, assembling materials and products to create the final result. Both you and the contractor can oversee the quality of work, materials, and code compliance. In remodeling, however, we work with an existing structure built by someone else, using the materials and codes of that time—often under less strict standards. I wish every structure had been built with top-notch craftsmanship, proper materials, and to code, but experience tells me that’s not always the case. Without x-ray vision (despite what my kids once thought), I have to assume the original structure is sound, built to code, and in line with standard practices of its era, aside from normal wear and tear. Otherwise, I’d have to pad estimates to cover unknowns, which I choose not to do. That’s why it’s important to understand that during demolition, we may uncover issues requiring extra work beyond the contract to fix before continuing. We will not, under any circumstances, cover up or ignore known problems just to move forward—you deserve better, and your trust means everything. Integrity isn’t taken; it’s given, and I have no intention of giving mine away.
Q: Those unknowns make me nervous …
A: I didn’t mean to make you nervous. I bring up the possibilities because we can’t control what we’ll find any more than you can. Unless you’re willing to tear apart your kitchen to expose all the structural and mechanical components before choosing a contractor for an exact quote, you need to pick a remodeling company you can trust not to take advantage of you once your old kitchen is in the dump trailer. Some contractors avoid talking about unknowns until they come up. I prefer the opposite approach, going over the “what-ifs” in detail. This includes discussing the cost implications if things aren’t as we’d hoped or expected. If a potential contractor skips these conversations or seems overly confident and tells you not to worry, that’s when you should worry.
A: In new construction, you start from scratch with full control over the process, assembling materials and products to create the final result. Both you and the contractor can oversee the quality of work, materials, and code compliance. In remodeling, however, we work with an existing structure built by someone else, using the materials and codes of that time—often under less strict standards. I wish every structure had been built with top-notch craftsmanship, proper materials, and to code, but experience tells me that’s not always the case. Without x-ray vision (despite what my kids once thought), I have to assume the original structure is sound, built to code, and in line with standard practices of its era, aside from normal wear and tear. Otherwise, I’d have to pad estimates to cover unknowns, which I choose not to do. That’s why it’s important to understand that during demolition, we may uncover issues requiring extra work beyond the contract to fix before continuing. We will not, under any circumstances, cover up or ignore known problems just to move forward—you deserve better, and your trust means everything. Integrity isn’t taken; it’s given, and I have no intention of giving mine away.
Q: Those unknowns make me nervous …
A: I didn’t mean to make you nervous. I bring up the possibilities because we can’t control what we’ll find any more than you can. Unless you’re willing to tear apart your kitchen to expose all the structural and mechanical components before choosing a contractor for an exact quote, you need to pick a remodeling company you can trust not to take advantage of you once your old kitchen is in the dump trailer. Some contractors avoid talking about unknowns until they come up. I prefer the opposite approach, going over the “what-ifs” in detail. This includes discussing the cost implications if things aren’t as we’d hoped or expected. If a potential contractor skips these conversations or seems overly confident and tells you not to worry, that’s when you should worry.
Q: Please explain product selection: owner-provided items versus allowances
A: In a remodeling project, there are two main types of products or materials. First are the “install-items,” which are the things you’ll see once they’re in place, like tile, cabinets, plumbing, and light fixtures. The second is construction material, such as 2x4s, cement board, and wiring. You’ll have full control over choosing and paying for install-items, while we’ll handle the construction materials.
Each install-item will either be “owner-provided” or an “allowance” item. Owner-provided means you buy and pay for it directly, so it’s not included in the estimate or contract—any listed price is just for your budget reference. Allowance items are ones I expect to purchase for you, with an estimated cost included in the contract. Once selected and bought, the cost is adjusted to match the actual price.
The key takeaway is to make sure the contract clearly shows what’s being installed and the cost of each material. Without that clarity, you might end up with “contractor-grade” materials you didn’t intend to choose.
A: In a remodeling project, there are two main types of products or materials. First are the “install-items,” which are the things you’ll see once they’re in place, like tile, cabinets, plumbing, and light fixtures. The second is construction material, such as 2x4s, cement board, and wiring. You’ll have full control over choosing and paying for install-items, while we’ll handle the construction materials.
Each install-item will either be “owner-provided” or an “allowance” item. Owner-provided means you buy and pay for it directly, so it’s not included in the estimate or contract—any listed price is just for your budget reference. Allowance items are ones I expect to purchase for you, with an estimated cost included in the contract. Once selected and bought, the cost is adjusted to match the actual price.
The key takeaway is to make sure the contract clearly shows what’s being installed and the cost of each material. Without that clarity, you might end up with “contractor-grade” materials you didn’t intend to choose.
Q: What about subcontractor work?
A: I used to believe having my own employees was always the best approach, but I realized that matching t-shirts don’t guarantee success. What truly matters is having a team united by a shared vision, empowered through great leadership, and trusted with both the responsibility and authority to do the right thing.
These days, I work exclusively with subcontractors. Before signing any contract, we’ll know exactly who will be working in your home. I hand-pick professional subcontractors who run their own credentialed businesses and have a proven track record with me. I negotiate agreements based on their bids for your specific project before presenting you with an estimate, and I personally introduce them before we enter into any legal arrangement. We may not wear the same shirts, but we’re one team with the shared goal of making us your first choice for all your home remodeling needs.
In many ways, my relationships with subcontractors are stronger than traditional employer-employee bonds, which means a higher quality product for you. Just ask past customers if they would have known the crew were subcontractors—most wouldn’t have guessed unless I told them.
A: I used to believe having my own employees was always the best approach, but I realized that matching t-shirts don’t guarantee success. What truly matters is having a team united by a shared vision, empowered through great leadership, and trusted with both the responsibility and authority to do the right thing.
These days, I work exclusively with subcontractors. Before signing any contract, we’ll know exactly who will be working in your home. I hand-pick professional subcontractors who run their own credentialed businesses and have a proven track record with me. I negotiate agreements based on their bids for your specific project before presenting you with an estimate, and I personally introduce them before we enter into any legal arrangement. We may not wear the same shirts, but we’re one team with the shared goal of making us your first choice for all your home remodeling needs.
In many ways, my relationships with subcontractors are stronger than traditional employer-employee bonds, which means a higher quality product for you. Just ask past customers if they would have known the crew were subcontractors—most wouldn’t have guessed unless I told them.
Q: How long is this going to take?
A: I consider it a privilege to be the “chosen one” to work in your home. While most clients quickly warm up to the crew, we know we’re still guests. A sign in our farmhouse mudroom read, “All our visitors bring us happiness; some by coming… others by going.” I’ve never forgotten that, so our goal is to get in, do the job efficiently and reasonably, and minimize disruptions. That doesn’t mean rushing—it means smart scheduling and managing our team well.
Your role is to keep perspective and stay patient. Kitchens are often the heart of the home and the busiest spot, and we understand the urgency if we’re remodeling your only bathroom or if the kids have taken over the master bath. Still, we won’t cut corners. Days without visible progress can be tough, but they’re often needed for materials to set and cure properly. Contractors who rush are usually focused on moving on to the next job, not doing yours right.
We almost never start until all materials are on hand. If we don’t wait, we risk delays from suppliers, and we don’t like stopping mid-project. Work and material orders are only scheduled after the contract is signed.
A: I consider it a privilege to be the “chosen one” to work in your home. While most clients quickly warm up to the crew, we know we’re still guests. A sign in our farmhouse mudroom read, “All our visitors bring us happiness; some by coming… others by going.” I’ve never forgotten that, so our goal is to get in, do the job efficiently and reasonably, and minimize disruptions. That doesn’t mean rushing—it means smart scheduling and managing our team well.
Your role is to keep perspective and stay patient. Kitchens are often the heart of the home and the busiest spot, and we understand the urgency if we’re remodeling your only bathroom or if the kids have taken over the master bath. Still, we won’t cut corners. Days without visible progress can be tough, but they’re often needed for materials to set and cure properly. Contractors who rush are usually focused on moving on to the next job, not doing yours right.
We almost never start until all materials are on hand. If we don’t wait, we risk delays from suppliers, and we don’t like stopping mid-project. Work and material orders are only scheduled after the contract is signed.
Q: Are you going to make a mess?
A: The short answer is probably. The amount of mess depends on the scope of the work—demolishing sheetrock, knocking down walls, and tearing out tile are all messy jobs. Dust seems to come from nowhere, so instead of fighting it, we prepare for it. We take steps to contain it with floor coverings, plastic sheeting, and other barriers. We clean up daily in the work area, though it won’t be spotless—that’s not the goal. The contract specifies we’ll leave things “broom-clean,” and all debris goes into our dump trailer instead of a smelly dumpster in your driveway. It’s smart to have extra filters for your central heating/air system to help reduce dust, and plan to dust anything near the work area. Small items, pictures, and knick-knacks should be stored or covered to save you from cleaning each one later.
A: The short answer is probably. The amount of mess depends on the scope of the work—demolishing sheetrock, knocking down walls, and tearing out tile are all messy jobs. Dust seems to come from nowhere, so instead of fighting it, we prepare for it. We take steps to contain it with floor coverings, plastic sheeting, and other barriers. We clean up daily in the work area, though it won’t be spotless—that’s not the goal. The contract specifies we’ll leave things “broom-clean,” and all debris goes into our dump trailer instead of a smelly dumpster in your driveway. It’s smart to have extra filters for your central heating/air system to help reduce dust, and plan to dust anything near the work area. Small items, pictures, and knick-knacks should be stored or covered to save you from cleaning each one later.
Q: You guys must hate HGTV…
A: We hear that comment a lot, but honestly, we enjoy working with informed consumers. Sure, there’s some misleading information on certain networks that makes us shake our heads, but many shows share great insights that help viewers understand what it really takes to execute remodeling projects the right way. I appreciate that—because the more informed you are, the more appealing we become. My one pet peeve, though, is that most shows don’t accurately portray how long it actually takes to complete the work or for materials like thin-set or plaster to properly cure.
A: We hear that comment a lot, but honestly, we enjoy working with informed consumers. Sure, there’s some misleading information on certain networks that makes us shake our heads, but many shows share great insights that help viewers understand what it really takes to execute remodeling projects the right way. I appreciate that—because the more informed you are, the more appealing we become. My one pet peeve, though, is that most shows don’t accurately portray how long it actually takes to complete the work or for materials like thin-set or plaster to properly cure.
Q: What about this lead paint stuff I’ve been hearing about in homes built prior to 1978….?
A: On April 22, 2010, a federal law under the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) went into effect for renovating homes built before 1978. Known as the EPA Renovation, Repair & Painting Rule (RRP), it targets 1978 because that’s when lead-based paint was banned for residential use. The rule assumes any home from 1978 or earlier contains lead paint. If your home was built before then and you disturb more than six square feet of interior paint per room or over 20 square feet outside, your contractor must be EPA-certified, have a trained “Certified Renovator” on staff, ensure all workers are properly trained, and follow lead-safe work practices. The main concern is lead dust released during renovation—paint that was harmless for years can become dangerous once disturbed. Hewitt Remodeling Services is proud to be EPA-certified as a Renovation Firm (certification # NAT-76697-1).
A: On April 22, 2010, a federal law under the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) went into effect for renovating homes built before 1978. Known as the EPA Renovation, Repair & Painting Rule (RRP), it targets 1978 because that’s when lead-based paint was banned for residential use. The rule assumes any home from 1978 or earlier contains lead paint. If your home was built before then and you disturb more than six square feet of interior paint per room or over 20 square feet outside, your contractor must be EPA-certified, have a trained “Certified Renovator” on staff, ensure all workers are properly trained, and follow lead-safe work practices. The main concern is lead dust released during renovation—paint that was harmless for years can become dangerous once disturbed. Hewitt Remodeling Services is proud to be EPA-certified as a Renovation Firm (certification # NAT-76697-1).
Q: The Contract…
A: The rule of thumb for contracts is simple: never start a project with just a handshake for more than you’re willing to risk losing. Some say a contract can’t protect you from a bad contractor and isn’t needed with a great one, but you can’t tell the difference until you go through the process. In construction, vague contracts have long been common, leaving much open to interpretation—and often favoring the contractor. I take the opposite view. For me, the real value of a detailed contract isn’t just in protecting us if things go wrong, but in preventing problems from the start. Preparing the contract, discussing all the issues with everyone involved, and tackling the “tough stuff” upfront sets the tone for the project. I make sure we’re all clear on the work to be done and the agreed compensation, with enough detail to avoid misunderstandings—because the only bad questions are the ones left unasked. I use a contract based on the American Institute of Architects (AIA) recommendations and provide it well in advance for review before we meet to sign two copies, one for each of us. I see the contract as a tool to guide our remodeling journey—not something set in stone—and my goal is to keep you happy along the way and smiling when it’s done. A clear, thorough contract helps make that happen.
A: The rule of thumb for contracts is simple: never start a project with just a handshake for more than you’re willing to risk losing. Some say a contract can’t protect you from a bad contractor and isn’t needed with a great one, but you can’t tell the difference until you go through the process. In construction, vague contracts have long been common, leaving much open to interpretation—and often favoring the contractor. I take the opposite view. For me, the real value of a detailed contract isn’t just in protecting us if things go wrong, but in preventing problems from the start. Preparing the contract, discussing all the issues with everyone involved, and tackling the “tough stuff” upfront sets the tone for the project. I make sure we’re all clear on the work to be done and the agreed compensation, with enough detail to avoid misunderstandings—because the only bad questions are the ones left unasked. I use a contract based on the American Institute of Architects (AIA) recommendations and provide it well in advance for review before we meet to sign two copies, one for each of us. I see the contract as a tool to guide our remodeling journey—not something set in stone—and my goal is to keep you happy along the way and smiling when it’s done. A clear, thorough contract helps make that happen.
Q: How do the payments work?
A: Payments are divided into three main types, based on the size of the project, scope of work, and projected schedule:
Contract Signing Draw: This amount depends on your project’s scope, our upfront costs, and anticipated start date. The details of your project determine the signing draw, and it should make sense regardless of your chosen contractor. If there’s a long gap between signing and starting, the signing draw will be smaller, but we’ll add a payment due one week before work begins.
Progress Draws: After starting, we typically use “progress billing,” with specific milestones—like demolition, cabinet installation, or flooring—linked to payments. This way, you pay as work is completed rather than on a fixed calendar schedule. We aim to balance completed work with fair weekly compensation, so expect payments once a week for finished milestones, partial draws, or work done since the last payment.
Final Draw: This is due upon substantial completion, meaning the space is ready for its intended use. You can withhold a fair amount to cover any unfinished tasks, as outlined in the contract, which allows holding back 150% of the estimated cost to complete remaining work.
A: Payments are divided into three main types, based on the size of the project, scope of work, and projected schedule:
Contract Signing Draw: This amount depends on your project’s scope, our upfront costs, and anticipated start date. The details of your project determine the signing draw, and it should make sense regardless of your chosen contractor. If there’s a long gap between signing and starting, the signing draw will be smaller, but we’ll add a payment due one week before work begins.
Progress Draws: After starting, we typically use “progress billing,” with specific milestones—like demolition, cabinet installation, or flooring—linked to payments. This way, you pay as work is completed rather than on a fixed calendar schedule. We aim to balance completed work with fair weekly compensation, so expect payments once a week for finished milestones, partial draws, or work done since the last payment.
Final Draw: This is due upon substantial completion, meaning the space is ready for its intended use. You can withhold a fair amount to cover any unfinished tasks, as outlined in the contract, which allows holding back 150% of the estimated cost to complete remaining work.