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Frequently Asked Questions

Q. I hear stories about how stressful these remodeling projects can be.  Why are they stressful?

A. Kitchens or bathrooms are central rooms in your home that are key to your family life.  When these rooms become upset, the family becomes upset.  Ways to help the stress are to have realistic expectations about how long the project will take, have alternative arrangements for cooking or bathing, and make sure the family is ready to have people in their home to work on the project.  At DreamMaker Bath and Kitchen, we understand this can be an emotional time.  We will provide you with project schedules and remain in constant communication to let you know how the project is coming along.   

Q. Can you do the entire remodeling project?

A. We handle all parts of a kitchen or bathroom remodeling project including the electrical, plumbing, carpentry, and installation work.  We offer a large product selection so you have a one-stop-shop for your countertops, flooring, fixtures, lighting, and cabinetry selections. Our countertop products can be a very basic laminate to more customized laminate, to Solid Surface (like a Corian), to granite or ceramic tile.  The flooring can be vinyl, laminate, tile, wood, or be some of the more unique products such as Marmoleum or cork. 

Q. How long before my remodeling project will be done?

A. The length of time will be based on how complicated the project is, how quick decisions can be made, the manufacturing lead-time of products, any changes to the design, and any “surprises” found during the construction phase.  If we break down the project into phases it will help to better determine the time a project takes. 

  1. The Design Phase is also known as the planning phase.  It is the part of the project when you are working with your interior designer to determine what the new space will look like.  This phase could last anywhere from one week to six months, however the average is four weeks for significant remodeling projects. 
  2. The Contract Phase is from the contract signing date until the actual construction starts.  In this phase, the materials are ordered, the subcontractors are hired, and a construction schedule is determined.  This phase will last from two weeks to ten weeks depending on the type of materials ordered. 
  3. The Construction Phase is when the actual installation work is completed.  This is when your existing kitchen or bath is being torn apart and when the new items are being installed. This phase will last anywhere from two weeks to eight weeks depending on the complexity of the project.  Your project will be substantially complete at this point and will be in usable condition.
  4. The final phase is called the Wrap-Up.  As your project nears substantial completion, your Project Manager will draw up a final punch list of any touch-up items left to be completed on your contract.  Your Project Manager will provide a final timeline for finishing these items and arrange for all necessary work and final inspections as needed.
  5. As you can see, because we offer so many remodeling options, timelines for your project from beginning of design to completion can vary.  If your project is to have a major remodeling component, then you’ll need to plan ahead. 

Q.How soon can you start my project?

A.  Once the contract is signed, we schedule our technicians to begin the work, and we place the orders for all the material.  The lead-time is typically based on the cabinetry or plumbing order interval since that takes the longest.    

Q.  Do you carry insurance?

A. Yes.  DreamMaker carries both liability and worker’s compensation insurance.  In addition, all of our trade-partners are required to carry both of these types of insurance prior to being hired by DreamMaker Bath and Kitchen.

Q. What kind of a warranty does DreamMaker have?

A. DreamMaker Bath and Kitchen will warranty the materials supplied and installed by us for one year against defects.  All articles supplied by DreamMaker, but manufactured by others, shall be covered by the manufacturer’s warranty.  For a complete explanation of the warranty, ask your designer.  A copy of all warranties will be given to you at the completion of the project.

Q. Does DreamMaker belong to any professional organizations?

A. Yes.  DreamMaker belongs to the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA).  In addition, they participate in the National Association of Remodeler’s Institute (NARI) training seminars.

Q. Does DreamMaker have a license?

A.Yes, if required for the work our company will be completing.  We may also be retaining the services of qualified trade-partners to work on your project such as licensed plumbers, electricians and carpenters.

Q. When do I need to pay for the remodeling project?

A. DreamMaker follows NKBA industry standards.  Typically, 40% of the project is paid for at the time the contract is signed.  This purchases the materials for your project and holds a space in the work schedule.  The next payment is made when your project’s construction actually begins.  Typically, this is the next 50% of the contract.  The final 10% payment is made after substantial completion.  Depending on the scope and completion time of the job, our accountant will mail out an invoice letter informing you when the payments are due. 

Q. What could delay my project?

A. Delays, unfortunately, do happen.  The original schedule of the project is a planning tool that may change due to issues that arise during the remodeling job.  Causes of the delay could be a longer lead time from the cabinet manufacturer due to a busy season, special order items such as non-stock sinks, correction of water damage behind the walls that was not foreseen, removal of pipes from old gas lines or plumbing lines that were hidden within the walls, damaged merchandise, or changes to the original design. 

Q. What is a change order?

A. It is a change to the contractual agreement for your project.  For instance, you may want to add some additional lighting or electrical work, or you determine that you want DreamMaker to paint the walls, which you thought you were able to do yourself.  Another type of change order may arise because of unforeseen “surprises” found in the construction phase such as the water damage behind the walls that must be repaired, or plumbing pipes that need to be rerouted.   All changes to the project must be discussed with the Project Manager since many times a change order will add to the installation time of your project.  The Project Manager will have you sign a form that will let you know how much the change will add or subtract from your project and any schedule changes.

Q. How do the installers get access to my house?

A. A lock box is typically put on your door that contains a key to your home.  Since there may be several different contractors working on your home, it is the easiest way to allow them access without having to stay home from work each morning to let them in. 

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