PHASE tHREE: Selecting materials & fixtures

Welcome back to the third installment of the 2016 Tour of Remodeled Homes series! The Bulletin and the Central Oregon Builders Association (COBA) have partnered with three local builders, PGC Building + Design, Sun Forest Construction and Neil Kelly DBR, to bring readers a first-hand look at the step-by-step stages of three remodels from start to finish.

Last month, this unique real estate feature explored phase one of a major home renovation project — design and budgeting.

Often during the budget and design phase, options for materials and fixtures are explored. In this edition of the 2016 Tour of Remodeled Homes special series, each builder will offer insight into the critical stage of selecting and ordering materials and fixtures, how it can affect the overall construction schedule and how homeowners benefit from professional guidance when making their final decisions.

This is perhaps the most exciting part of a remodeling project for the homeowner, because after all, who doesn’t love shopping? But it can also be overwhelming with the slew of choices available today.

BUDGET

Custom cabinetry, flooring, tile and detailed woodwork all dictate the overall budget. A homeowner could easily take the cost of a remodeling project to the moon with custom fixtures. Working with a professional designer can provide additional creative ideas and ways to pull back expenses in one area and allocate the money to more important items.

STYLE

This stage is also a time when homeowners should make decisions with careful planning and forethought, not only for money reasons but overall aesthetics and style. Current “fads” might be appealing now, but will it look dated in five years?

The engineers, designers, architects and contractors all play a vital role in the overall process, but they aren’t the ones who will be living in the home. Ultimately in the end it’s the homeowners who will be looking at their cabinets and floors everyday, so decisions should be made wisely.

This is where the experience and guidance from a competent designer is invaluable. A good designer can guide the homeowner through the myriad of selections, often giving advice on current trends, complementary styles and overall functionality.

TIMING

Ordering materials early is critical to keeping the construction schedule on track. Some fixtures are considered “long lead” items — such as custom cabinets and windows — and should be ordered as soon as the design is finalized and approved. Others items such as faucets and tile arrive quicker.

Another factor of how materials affect scheduling is how it lines up with subcontractors. These professionals include finish carpenters, cabinet installers, plumbers and electricians. With the current construction boom in Central Oregon, most subs are busy, so cabinets should be ready when the sub is ready and available to install them.

This special series will not only dig into the nitty gritty of three actual remodeling projects in Central Oregon, it will also help to explain and inform readers about the overall process. So whether you’re dreaming of a new gourmet kitchen or simply enjoy watching a home renovation, jump right in and follow along!

On the second Saturday of each month, now through September, The Bulletin’s Real Estate section will feature each builder as they share an inside look at each stage of one of their premiere remodeling projects. Follow the progress as Neil Kelly DBR embarks on a complete gut and remodel of a kitchen. See what can become of an early ‘70s ranch style house as PGC Building + Design takes it through a floor-to-roof renovation and second story addition. Reflect on an award-winning, extensive custom home remodel Sun Forest Construction completed in 2013.