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Key Questions to Ask When Choosing a Remodeling Contractor

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The most essential first step when beginning a home remodeling project is to select your contractor. Your goal is to choose a professional who is reliable, honest, and has a good reputation for quality work. You’ll want to get multiple estimates and check each contractor’s reviews, but there is more you can do to select the best contractor for you. Think of this step as the “interview” process.

Your job at this point is to ask a lot of questions.  Here are 13 of the most important:

1. How long have you been a remodeling contractor?

First and foremost, you want an experienced remodeling contractor. Those with years of experience have created processes and controls to ensure that their projects are completed on time and on budget. Experience helps to produce quality results that will meet your expectations.

2. Will I have a dedicated team working on my project?

Contractors often work several projects at a time. You want to know that the individuals on your job will be consistent from day to day. Ask: Will the same team be working on my project each day? Will you be the project manager? If not, who and what will he or she oversee each day? What is your process for qualifying the sub-contractors you work with? How often can I expect a progress report?

3. What remodeling contractor insurance do you carry?

Contractors should have workers’ compensation and liability insurance for the types of jobs they perform. Ask to see their Certificate of Insurance for peace of mind that the company and their employees are insured for the type of work you are hiring them for. In addition, ask if the sub-contractors they hire are insured under the contractor’s insurance.

4. What licenses and certification does your company and its employees have?

Cities, states, and sometimes counties have different contractors’ licensing requirements. You want to know that your contractor has obtained any required certifications for their field of expertise. (You don’t want to hire a carpenter whose license is in plumbing.) A business license is not sufficient. A license to operate a business doesn’t mean that the individual is a licensed or credentialed contractor.

5. Will the remodeling contractor obtain the necessary permits and arrange for the required inspections?

Some projects require permits and/or inspections, especially if your project changes the structure of the home. Your contractor should know what permits are needed and how to get them … and should be willing to obtain them for you. 

6. What is your timeline for starting and completing this project?

Ask, too, if there are any circumstances that might affect the schedule, such as other projects the company is working on now or prospective projects that may go to contract. Learn how changes to the timeline will be addressed.

7. How do you want to be paid? What is the payment schedule?

You should never be expected to pay for the entire project upfront and a reputable contractor will not ask you to. It is important to know exactly how much is due and when.

8. How will additional remodeling contractor charges be handled?

With today’s technology, contractors can provide very accurate pricing, but remodeling projects can be unpredictable at times. Once a project is underway, circumstances may arise that can change the initial estimate. Homeowners may decide to make changes that require a “change order.” It is important that your contractor agree not to exceed the agreed upon budget without getting approval.

9. What will a typical day on this project be like?

You need to know what to expect on construction days so you can prepare appropriately. At what time does the workday begin and end? What does the homeowner need to remove prior to the start of the project? Does the homeowner need to be home during the project? Should pets be removed from the home? What will the noise level be like? In addition, ask how tools and materials will be stored if the job spans several days? Ask if tools will be put away or if equipment needs to stay in place until the following day. At the end of the day, will trash be removed and disposed of? Will there be routine end-of-day clean up to ensure an uncluttered workspace?

10. What steps are taken to protect my property?

Although the question may seem disrespectful, it is important to know that your contractor is willing to take appropriate steps to protect your home. Ask about the use of tarps to cover large furniture and surfaces in the work area. Will the crew wear shoe coverings in the house? Will doors need to be kept open and will they be closed and locked when leaving the home?

11. Do you offer a warranty for your service or for the materials you will use?

Most remodeling contractors offer a guarantee on their work, and you’ll want to know what their warranty covers and for how long. The materials used may have a manufacturer’s warranty, so you should request a copy of this information before construction begins.

12. How will we communicate with each other during the project?

Who is the remodeling contractor person you should be contacting if you have a question or a change? When is the best time to contact this person and how – by phone, text, email? Ask in what general timeframe you can expect a response.

It is critical to establish good communication between contractor and homeowner. Prospective contractors will welcome your questions and should have a list of questions of their own to determine what you desire in your remodel and what your expectations are. You don’t want a contractor who agrees with everything you say.

You want an open dialogue which ensures a positive working relationship for this project and beyond.

How will we resolve any disagreements?

Mistakes and disagreements with remodeling contractors do sometimes occur, therefore, a remodeling contractor must have a process to handle this. As a result, you will hire a remodeler who guarantees their work and has a process in place to make sure you are 100% satisfied. 

Want to know what it is like to work with a reliable remodeling contractor? Check out our latest reviews on BuildZoom.

Extending your outdoor living with a custom deck

A Custom Deck: Extending Your Outdoor Living Space

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If you are thinking about extending the function and value of your home with a custom deck, know that there are many variables and requirements you need to consider. Whether your new deck is a brand-new addition or one that replaces a worn or no longer serviceable deck, the professionals at A.W. Puma have found that the process is relatively the same.

Replacing an Existing Deck with a Custom Deck

Since you already have a deck in place that conforms to your site plan, the need to obtain a new certified plot plan may not be necessary, unless your new deck differs in size and scope. A certified plot plan by a surveyor determines that the design doesn’t encroach on setbacks. This is then presented to the town building department for approval to move forward with the plan.

Some clients want to replace the existing deck floor and railings with composite, while retaining the original wood framing. In cases like this, we ask about the age of the deck. If it was built 15 or 20 years ago, we typically advise that the entire deck be rebuilt as the composite flooring will likely outlive the wood framing in place and the whole deck will need to be rebuilt in 5 or 10 years. An older deck can be replaced with wood flooring, which is less expensive than composite, and will last as long as the existing framing and footings.

Beginning the Process of Creating your Very Own Custom Deck

At A.W. Puma Remodeling, we begin with a consultation that includes many, many questions for the homeowners. Basically, we need to know how the deck will be used in the here and now and what future plans the homeowners may have for the deck.  

  • How many family members will be using the deck?
  • Will you use the deck for entertaining friends and extended family?
  • Will you be grilling on the deck?
  • Do you envision a more elaborate “outdoor kitchen” that will require electricity, a stove top, grill, venting, special lighting?
  • What other activities will you be planning on the deck? Dinner parties with the need for a table and seating?
  • Will your deck surround a pool or spa?
  • Will the deck require stairs and if so, how and where will they be located?
  • … and more

Where Will the Deck be Located?

Most times, the location of the deck is apparent, but when there may be more than one choice, we’ll ask:

  • What time of the day will the location be in sun or in shade?
  • Where can you maximize the scenic view?
  • What location creates privacy from neighbors?
  • What area provides the better access from house to deck?

Deck Lighting

There are several ways to add light to your deck to create a festive or romantic feeling. A popular choice today is to add solar post caps, a cost-effective way to add character and ambience to your deck. Solar post caps give a romantic glow rather than brightness. Were you thinking about:

  • Overhead lights
  • Wall or post-mounted lights
  • Landscape spotlights
  • Path lights

Options for Your Custom Deck Material

Today, composite materials made of recycled wood fibers and plastics are the top choice for decking.  While composite is more expensive than wood, there is little – virtually no maintenance — costs or labor to deal with.

With today’s higher pricing of lumber, composite decking may be more in line in price with wood than in the past. Other choices include:

  • Pressure-treated woods, which contain wood and preservatives for resistance to weather, are available in many choices, including pine, cedar, and redwood. Wood provides a traditional look of warmth but must be maintained yearly.
  • Premium hardwoods, such as teak or Brazilian Ipe Hardwood are extremely durable but cost more than pressure-treated woods. 
  • PVC or plastic planks resist rot and hold up well to harsh weather, but they are costly, may feel spongy underfoot, and tend to get very hot under the sun.

Do you have a budget in mind for your custom deck?

The budget for a new or rebuilt deck includes more than materials and labor and will determine the size and design of your project.  These extras should be considered and added to the estimate:

  • Built-in seating and table
  • Railings
  • Lighting
  • Flowerboxes
  • Built-in storage

Don’t forget permits and any fees determined by your town.

Generally, all the specifications are done in-house at A.W. Puma Remodeling. The beam size, post size and positioning. Our clients don’t have to worry about extra fees for these items.

Plans for the Future

It is important to know at the outset if there are some things that you may envision but cannot do right now. For example, if you think you might like to add a hot tub at some time in the future, we need to plan for it now, with heavy-duty footings or additional beams. Be prepared to discuss these future thoughts during the initial consultation.

Some Interesting Trends

Especially with composite decking, hidden fasteners where no screws or nail heads show, are very popular. Cable railings, which have been around for quite some time, include the use of stainless- steel braided wire. Chosen, so as not to block the view, cable railings, like glass partitions, are gaining popularity. Also popular for railings are PVC pipe with black spindles. 

Composite decking now is available in even more life-like colors and designs. It is not only textured with a wood-like grain but created with light and dark streaking simulating the look of wood planking.

Decks have gotten larger. With the additional time people have spent at home in the past year, many are looking to increase the use of outdoor living space.

The First Step to Creating your Custom Deck

If you are thinking about adding or replacing a custom deck, the first step is to talk to an experienced builder who can advise you of the process and the decisions you will need to make before you get a firm estimate of the cost.

Do your research. Look at magazines to get an idea of the styles and designs you like. Then, think about a budget and call us at 508-918-0422 at A.W. Puma Remodeling and Restoration.

We’ll be happy to answer your questions and guide you along to create a new living space you will enjoy for many years.

Bring in the outdoors with a custom sunroom

Custom Sunroom Build: Bringing the Outdoors In

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Let in the Light and Keep Out the Bugs

A custom sunroom can be a special place in your home. Surrounded by glass with screened openings that can be open or closed, sunrooms are sometimes referred to as patio rooms, solariums, outdoor enclosures, and Florida rooms.

A sunroom is a room where you can bring the outdoors in while controlling the area from natural elements. Heat, cold, rain, wind, snow, and bugs are kept out and the family can enjoy a view of nature while experiencing the comfort of being inside.

Styles and Structures of a Custom Sunroom

There are many styles and layouts to consider, but the most efficient designs blend in with the existing structure. The result should look like it was part of the original design of the home, not a room added as an afterthought. Often, builders will use existing bases, like concrete patios or wooden decks. The roof may be opaque rather than a solid, shingled covering.  With the advance of construction technology, sunrooms are now built of lightweight and high-tech products like, aluminum, structural vinyl, engineered roof panels, and tinted glass. Sunrooms may also include radiant heating and air conditioning.

Three- or Four-Season Sunroom?

Consider whether you want your custom sunroom to be available and occupied during the spring, summer, and fall … or if you would like to use it during the winter as well.  Three-season sunrooms are designed to provide shade from direct sun and offer some cooling during the hot summer. They may be made of lighter weight materials which are economical, but they are not normally insulated or include a heating system. In the Northeast, you may want a sunroom that you can enjoy year-round.

A four-season sunroom is built to provide comfort no matter the weather. A year-round sunroom is a stronger, heavy-duty addition that uses double-pane glass that may have specialized treatments like inert, argon filling or low-emissivity coatings. The roof, walls, and doors in four-season sunrooms have sufficient insulation and protection against a severe climate. They may also incorporate the main home’s siding and the same roof with overhangs.

The knee or low-height panels beneath the glass are usually two feet tall and allow space for electrical plugs and baseboard heaters. Multiple sky lights in a solid roof may be used to capture optimum natural light.

Buiding a Sunroom versus Greenhouse

A sunroom is designed to control sunlight, shading direct light from the interior. It is not designed to be trapped for solar gain, as you want in a greenhouse. A greenhouse is different than a sunroom with a different purpose.

Why You Should Have a Custom Sunroom Built

The main consideration people have when deciding whether to add a sunroom is the cost. Your personal enjoyment and the lifestyle advantage you gain with a sunroom is the first factor. You will need to consult a local realtor to see what the return on your investment (ROI) may be in your area. According to Home Remodeling Cost Guide, adding a sunroom will increase your home’s general value … you should see a 50% return on the money you spend.

Some other considerations include a possible increase in property taxes and an adjustment to your insurance costs. If you are adding a four-season sunroom, there will be added utility expense.  Think about the privacy issue as well, especially if you have close neighbors. You may need to add drapes, blinds or other window coverings.

Determining Costs of a Custom Sunroom Build

The cost of building a sunroom for your home is dependent on several factors:

  • What is the intended use? Three or Four seasons?
  • Size of the sunroom build
  • Quality of materials
  • Heating or cooling devices

If you are thinking about adding a custom sunroom, the first step is to talk to an experienced builder who can advise you of the process and the decisions you will need to make before you get a firm estimate of the cost.

Do your research. Look at magazines to get an idea of the styles and designs you like. Then, think about a budget and call us at 508-918-0422 at A.W. Puma Remodeling and Restoration.

We’ll be happy to answer your questions and guide you along to create a new living space you will enjoy for many years.

What’s Trending in Kitchen Design for 2021

Kitchen Design Trends 2021

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When deciding to plan a kitchen renovation, homeowners have many choices in how to update their kitchen design and style. Trends can be adapted to fit an individual’s favorite style with classy, yet functional ways to update and upgrade a kitchen.

More than ever before, in 2020 kitchens became the center of family life. Multiuse functionality, cleanliness, hygiene, and comfort will be the priority in what is trending for the 2021 kitchen.

So, What’s New?

Multifunctional furniture is in style.

We learned from the need to work at home that multifunctional furnishings are a necessity. A dropleaf table in the kitchen, for instance, can multitask as a standing workstation or homeschooling nook. A multi-level counter can serve as a kitchen prep area or desk.

Décor to give comfort as well as character

Kitchens are getting more use these days and people want the space to be more comfortable, less utilitarian. Look for ways in which details, like ambient lighting, wood-stained cabinets, mixed metal fixtures, artwork, comfy cushions, and table lamps can make a kitchen cozier and more inviting. Here is an example: 

kitchen design trends 2021

Bold Color Palettes

While white remains the favorite kitchen color scheme, warmer and bolder shades are pushing out the cool tones of recent years. The color trend for 2021 includes warm colors that evoke feelings of compassion and comfort. 

Classic, all-white kitchens will always remain in style. However, people are beginning to select darker colors to bring depth, dimension, and a bit of drama to the kitchen. Kitchens are getting more colorful with brightly painted cabinets or a glitzy, statement backsplash or a colorful finish for countertops.

Goodbye Grey

According to Interior Design website Porch Daydreamer, “what was really obvious gray – like the basic cool grey — is definitely out.” Greige (a combo of warm grey and beige) and beige are in and have been around for a few years. New shades of greige are deeper and now are moving more toward a warmer beige with yellow undertones. Porch Daydreamer says, “Very new for 2021 are shades of blue green with a hint of grey.” 

Interior Design Trends tells the story with much bolder strokes. They explain, “The use of the entire color palette for kitchens has gained ground in recent years. It used to be limited to the use of white, brown, or gray. This has changed.” Color combinations can be used to highlight walls, cabinets, countertops, or accents … and bold is in for 2021.

Green is one of the most popular in all its variations – bluish green, mint green, sage green, olive green, apple green, and hunter green. Blue is another popular color in tones of pastel blue, turquoise, or navy blue, which can bring sophistication and elegance to the space.

A non-traditional mix of pale, dusty pink that blends well with gray has been trendy as well. Intense Colors like brown, red, orange, and yellow can have a place in a 2021 kitchen design. The trick is to combine them with other colors or finishes and to use them in moderation.

No-Touch Faucets

Motion-control and hands-free faucets, as well as touch-tap faucets, now are more popular than traditional kitchen faucets. Not just more hygienic, hands-free faucets promote productivity in the kitchen by turning on the water with a simple command. Choose matte or brushed finishes for low-maintenance or black faucets finish to complement warmer colors.

The Range Hood as Décor

A decorative range hood that extends beyond the cabinetry profile or one that features an accent color provides a focal point in the kitchen. Rather than bold details, the emphasis is on the types of materials used on range hoods. Marble, thin veneer porcelain, or plaster turns the range hood into a statement piece.

More Storage

With the need to cook more at home this past year, family chefs purchased more groceries, small appliances, and utensils such as bread makers, air fryers, and instant pots. As a result, increased kitchen storage areas are part of kitchen renovations and include pantries and freezers.

Specialty Ovens

Ovens that offer greater functionality for home chefs are more and more popular and are included in new kitchen designs. For example, a convection oven offers speed and a flexible cooking solution that combines both traditional and microwave ovens so you can bake, broil, and microwave all in the same unit.

Bringing the Outside In

One of the key design elements in kitchen design for 2021 will be the visual and physical connection to the outdoors.  Bifold doors and larger windows will promote a more stylish and less obtrusive view to the outside and provide fresh air flow. Light window treatments or bare windows will be featured.

Sustainability Very Much in Vogue

Using ethically and sustainable kitchenware is a trend that is getting more and more traction. Natural, organic style is in the top three kitchen design styles for 2021, according to the National Kitchen and Bath Association. Emphasizing the versatility of materials that are organic, nature-inspired, and environmentally conscious, such as energy-efficient light fixtures, today’s natural, organic style includes finishes that are luxurious and modern.

People want to know where their products come from and the impact it has on the environment. High-quality items such as hand-painted tiles, artisan-crafted hardware, and antique sinks are highly regarded and requested.

If you want to plan a kitchen renovation, read our blog and give us a call at 508-918-0422 or email to start the conversation and get your questions answered.

10 things to think about before you start your kitchen remodel

10 Things to Think About Before Remodeling A Kitchen

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When thinking (or dreaming) about remodeling your kitchen, you have probably been spurred on by magazine spreads of today’s kitchen trends.  More likely, however, you have been frustrated by the fact that your current kitchen doesn’t reflect your lifestyle or cooking needs, or even by the lack of storage. If you love to entertain or have lots of small appliances or cooking gadgets that need a home or if you need new appliances, a kitchen remodel may be in your future.

What to do first to prepare for your kitchen remodel

Consider the square footage of your kitchen space. Size dictates layout and is especially important in a small kitchen. What you want – an island or prep sink or extra storage space – may not be doable without constructing an addition to the kitchen or knocking down walls.  Your contractor will help you design a layout that makes the best of the available space and will give you options for windows and doors, which may be moved to accommodate your wishes.

Consider the layout of the kitchen

The workflow of the layout should match your cooking routine and lifestyle. You want to be able to move easily from the stove to the sink. Are you the primary cook or do you share cooking with someone else at the same time? Are you a gourmet cook who wants to allow space for professional appliances? Will you be hosting elaborate dinners or feeding young children every night? Do you prefer to cook and socialize with guests seated at a kitchen counter? Do you want to include an eat-in area or utilize the space for other purposes? Do you prefer natural light or designer lighting fixtures?

Age matters

You might be faced with electrical or plumbing issues during a remodel if your home is old. You’ll want to be sure your remodeling team includes an architect and engineer to ensure that the electrical system and current plumbing can deal with high tech appliances and lighting.

An older home may have sagging floors or walls that are not exactly “plumb” and may need to be straightened. These possibilities can add a lot to the remodeling budget.

Selecting countertops for your kitchen remodel

There is more to consider when selecting kitchen countertops than just what looks nice. You will want to think about how you will use the counters in your new kitchen. If you will be doing a lot of cooking and using the countertops as prep and cleanup areas, you will need to be concerned about scratches and food stains.

Some countertop materials such as marble, limestone, and granite are porous and will need to be sealed at least once a year. Wood countertops require oiling at least twice a year. Soapstone doesn’t require daily maintenance, but it will show wear and tear and develop a patina over time. Mineral oil applied regularly is recommended to keep it looking good.

Granite countertops can be maintained rather easily with a daily wiping of spills and crumbs with hot water and a sponge. A granite counter cleaner spray can be used to clean and disinfect the countertop. Some manufacturers recommend a monthly polish and yearly sealing if the granite is showing signs of absorbing water around the faucet or in high traffic areas.

You may be drawn aesthetically to one material over another and budget considerations will come into play.  A basic laminate countertop costs about $22 per square foot and top-grade marble or granite can cost as much as $250 per square foot. A high-end butcher’s block can be very expensive as well. Your contractor will be able to assist you in the selection of a countertop that you love that will fit into your budget.

Kitchen cabinets – to refinish or buy new?

Many times cabinets can be refinished with paint or stain or doors removed and replaced, keeping the infrastructure intact. Do you want cabinets with solid doors or glass or perhaps you prefer open shelves or a mixture of different styles? As is the case with all the other decisions to be made, budget limitations will play a major role and your contractor can help you with selecting the right way to go to achieve your ultimate goals.  

Kitchen Flooring … so many choices!

From vinyl flooring to wood planking to cork and natural stone, your choices for a renovated kitchen are many. You’ll want to find a durable option that is easy-to-clean and just right for your lifestyle. So much goes on in the kitchen, it is vital that the new floor will be able to withstand family traffic as well as accidents and spills that occur from cooking, babies, and pets. Some of the most popular flooring options include:

Vinyl

Budget friendly, sheet vinyl is resistant to water and stains, is scrubbable, and comfortable on your feet and back. Heavy appliances can leave depressions if not prevented with the use of “coasters” under legs. Sheet vinyl has no seams to allow water to seep between the tiles. It doesn’t get cold in the winter and is available in a variety of colors and patterns.

Porcelain Tile

An extremely durable tile, porcelain is waterproof and stain resistant, but the grout between tiles requires periodic sealing to prevent stains. Stronger than ceramic tile, it comes in many sizes, shapes, and patterns. Porcelain is heavy and can be slippery when wet. Glasses and plates that fall on a porcelain floor will likely break. Installation requires an underlayer and special thinset mortar.

Engineered Vinyl Planks

Engineered vinyl planks closely resemble real hardwood flooring and are waterproof and are slightly cushioned to give the floor a soft feel underfoot and they are easy to clean with just soap and water. Engineered vinyl planks can be installed directly over existing tile, concrete, or linoleum. Care must be taken when moving large appliances, as this type of flooring is not as resilient as porcelain.

Cork

Cork provides a warm and cushioned feel underfoot and is budget-friendly, but it can be scratched by heavy objects. Composed of ground cork and resins which are compressed into tiles, cork flooring is available in basic colors. Cork can absorb sound so it may be the choice where there is a living area below the kitchen. It resists stains but is not stain-proof and can fade if exposed to direct sunlight.

Natural Stone Tile

No two tiles are identical, so stone tiles add a one-of-a-kind look to the floor. Stone has a non-slip surface but can stain without regular sealing. An underlayment and thinset mortar are required for installation. There are several types of stone tiles, including travertine, marble, slate, and granite. Your contractor can discuss with you the attributes and pricing of each.

Appliances for your kitchen

The best advice is to get the best appliances you can afford. Quality appliances will cost more, but they will include the features you want and will last longer. If you are thinking about appliances that are “built-in,” like steam ovens, wine refrigerators, a coffee station, or wet bar, you’ll need to plan for these from the start.

The secret is in the details

Just as important, but not as exciting as countertops and flooring, are the details that you need to plan. Make certain that you consider proper ventilation – how and where vents will need to be moved or installed. You want to address the number of electrical outlets you will need and where best to position them. Do you want a garbage disposal or a compactor? Do you have a pet who needs a special place for food storage and eating? 

Timeline for your kitchen remodel

While you may have been dreaming about and planning for your kitchen remodel for a long time, you must realize that it won’t happen overnight. Your contractor will give you a timeline on what will happen when.  A.W. Puma Construction appreciates their relationships with their clients and keeps them informed every step of the way. (See our process.)

Budgeting for your kitchen remodel

Yes, it is expensive. According to Remodeling Magazine, a minor mid-range kitchen remodel in 2020 cost $23,452 and the national average cost for a full, midrange kitchen remodel is about $66,000. An upscale renovation can be as much as twice that. Homeadvisor (homeadvisor.com) reports that the biggest portion of the cost is for cabinetry and hardware (29 percent), installation (17 percent), and appliances and ventilation 14 percent).

A good rule of thumb is to invest approximately 10 percent of the home’s overall value on a full-scale kitchen remodel. Once again, your designer/contractor will assist you in determining what you should expect in cost and help you find cost-effective alternatives to stay within your budget.

There are many details to think about when planning a kitchen remodel. When you are ready to get started on your plan, contact Albert Puma at A.W. Puma by calling 508-918-0422 or use the form on our Contact page.