The Builder's Track

You can choose from various suppliers and have them design a kitchen for you. 🛠️

A draftsman will design a cabinet layout, but a kitchen designer will design a kitchen. There's a slight difference.

We like to see a computer-generated kitchen design, perhaps with one or two optional configurations to consider. With the final design, you can get two or three comparable quotes. Sometimes, you will have to choose between price and durability.

Custom cabinet companies will charge more, but the cabinetry will be stronger and sturdier than their factory-generated counterparts. Though, cabinetry can vary considerably in pricepoint between companies. So, shop around until you find the product and supplier that satisfies you.

Concrete work is not something a DIY homeowner should tackle! Not only is it complex, but mistakes are literally set in concrete, and you have to live with them forever!

A homeowner undertaking their project would be well advised to obtain quotes on the foundation work as a single-price bid. That is to say, let the subcontractor provide all the materials plus the labour for the job. Some will even cover the excavation in their price.

Why this approach?

1. The subcontractor is fully responsible for the proper ex*****on and structural integrity of the work. It's extremely important since the whole project depends on a good foundation. You don't want the labour crew to side-step a problem by blaming you for not having the concrete arrive on time.

2. Cost. Research has shown that, when obtaining at least two quotes on the foundation work, there are typically no significant savings whether buying the materials directly or through your contractor. So, save yourself time and find a foundation subcontractor who does it all.

So, if you intend to use a subcontractor for the whole foundation, you have only two things to do. The first is to get quotes from two or more subcontractors, and the second is to double-check to make sure the contractor has everything covered in his price. That’s it.

The exterior of your home should be inviting and create a positive first impression for visitors. 🏡

3 main things to consider when designing your home’s exterior:
✅ Landscaping
✅ Design
✅ Materials

Landscaping should be low-maintenance.

Incorporate multiple shades and materials into the design using rocks, trees, plants, or flowers.

There are also plenty of choices in material, including stucco or brick cladding and siding types like vinyl or wood.

But most importantly, design an exterior that welcomes you home after a long day.

The world has an endless need for builders and renovators; Become one of them for your generation.

Help a friend with their project, take a job as a construction helper, and do what you need to do to get in position.

Make it about others, and you will experience favour for your efforts.

Work hand in hand with others and share the load.

Believe in yourself and �believe in others.

Admitting your strengths and weaknesses is essential!

Once you know your capabilities, it's all about surrounding yourself with the right team and taking small steps forward.

Remember: small victories lead to success 📈

If you plan on putting a one-piece tub in, order months ahead!

Delays are all-too-common in today's environment, and you don't want your project running behind schedule.

The tub must be at the job site before installing the exterior doors.

Some even decide to crane the tubs with the trusses for two-storey homes.

Think about efficiency! ✅

Efficient homes are sustainable and can save you on heating and cooling costs.

Look for home efficiency rebates & tax benefits offered by your government!

A great builder makes mistakes and learns from them. 🌇

Builder’s Tip 🛠️
Cabinet installers and finishing carpenters are not always able to work simultaneously. Both take a lot of space to operate their equipment. So, talk to your finisher before you tell the cabinet shop to ship the order. You might want to schedule them for separate weeks.

If you don’t build your dream, someone will hire you to build theirs.

This is a home Coach Gord built with Discovery Homes. 🤩

Homeowners are expected to understand all the complex maintenance systems of a home. Many never learn these and face major consequences later on.

So, get your home prepared for this upcoming winter!