How to Choose the Right Remodeling Contractor in Colorado Springs

Choosing the right remodeling contractor in Colorado Springs is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when it comes to updating your home. Whether you’re planning a kitchen renovation, a bathroom remodel, or an outdoor space overhaul, finding a reliable contractor is essential to ensure the project is completed on time, on budget, and to your satisfaction. If you’re a homeowner in Colorado Springs or Monument, CO, the process of selecting a trustworthy remodeling contractor might seem overwhelming, but we’re here to guide you through it.

At Stewart Remodeling, we know what it takes to make your remodeling project a success. Here are the key factors to consider when choosing the best remodeling contractor in Colorado Springs for your next home project.

Know What You Want Before You Start

Before you begin your search for a qualified home remodeling contractor in Colorado Springs, have a clear vision of what you want to achieve with your home renovation. Whether you’re updating your kitchen, adding a new deck, or remodeling your fireplace, knowing the details of your project will help you communicate your goals more effectively.

Having a well-thought-out plan will not only give you confidence when discussing your project with potential remodeling contractors in Colorado Springs, but it will also allow you to compare quotes and timelines accurately. Create a list of must-haves for your project so you can prioritize your goals and budget accordingly.

Look for a Contractor with Experience in Colorado Springs

Knowledge and experience matter when it comes to home remodeling. You want to work with a contractor who understands the local building codes, climate considerations, and design trends in Colorado Springs and Monument, CO. An experienced home remodeling contractor will be familiar with the challenges of working in these areas and can offer valuable insights on what materials and designs work best for your home.

At Stewart Remodeling, we’re known for serving the Colorado Springs and Monument community for over 30 years. We know what it takes to create stunning, functional and livable spaces that stand the test of time in Colorado’s unique environment.

Check for Proper Licensing and Insurance

One of the most important steps in choosing a remodeling contractor in Colorado Springs is verifying that they have the proper licensing and insurance. A reputable home remodeling contractor must be fully licensed to perform work in Colorado Springs and should always carry liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance. This invaluable insurance protects you in case something goes awry during the project, such as property damage or worker injuries.

Ask to see proof of licensing and insurance before you hire a contractor. If a contractor hesitates to provide these documents, that’s a red flag, and you should continue your search elsewhere.

Read Reviews and Ask for References

When you’re choosing a home remodeling contractor in Colorado Springs, do your homework. The most accurate way to gauge a contractor’s reliability is by reading online reviews. Check sites like Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau to see what past clients have to say.

In addition to reading reviews, ask potential contractors for references. Speaking directly with past clients gives you the chace to ask porject-specific questions about the contractor’s work, such as how they handled challenges and whether they completed the project on time and within budget.

At Stewart Remodeling, we take pride in our excellent reputation and the positive reviews from homeowners we’ve worked with in Colorado Springs and Monument. Feel free to check out our reviews and ask us for references from past projects.

Get Multiple Quotes and Compare

When hiring a home remodeling contractor in Colorado Springs, get quotes from multiple contractors before making your decision. This will give you a sense of what the project should cost and help you avoid overpaying. When comparing quotes, don’t just look at the bottom line—be sure to consider the scope of work, materials, and timeline that each contractor is proposing.

A lower bid might seem appealing, but it could mean the contractor is cutting corners or using lower-quality materials. On the other hand, a higher bid may indicate that the contractor includes more services, such as design assistance or a more comprehensive warranty.

At Stewart Remodeling, we provide detailed, transparent quotes so you know exactly what to expect. We work closely with you to deliver top-quality craftsmanship while remaining on-budget and on-time.

Communication is Key

You want to choose a contractor who listens to your ideas, keeps you informed about the progress, and addresses any concerns promptly. From the first call to the final walk-through, your contractor should be available to answer your questions and provide updates on the project’s status.

During your initial meetings , pay attention to how well the contractor communicates:

Do they respond to your questions in a timely manner?

Are they clear about the process, timeline, and costs?

At Stewart Remodeling, we believe in keeping the lines of communication open. We work closely with you through every step of the process to ensure you’re always in the loop.

Ask About Warranties and Guarantees

A reputable home remodeling contractor in Colorado Springs will stand behind their previous work and offer warranties or guarantees on the services they provides. This shows that the contractor is confident in the quality of its work and is willing to address any issues that arise after project completion.

Be sure to ask potential contractors about the warranties they offer, including what is covered and how long the warranty lasts. A respected contractor should be willing to fix any issues that come up as a result of their work within a reasonable time frame.

At Stewart Remodeling, we offer comprehensive warranties on our work, so you can feel confident that your remodeling project is in good hands.

Local Expertise and Personalized Service

Working with a local home remodeling contractor means you’re supporting your community and receiving personalized service tailored to your specific needs. A contractor who understands the local market, weather patterns, and building styles is better equipped to deliver results that align with your vision.

At Stewart Remodeling, we are proud to serve the Colorado Springs and Monument areas. Our team is dedicated to providing homeowners with high-quality, hassle-free remodeling services that fit their schedules and budgets.

Why Stewart Remodeling is the Right Choice for Your Project

When it comes to home remodeling in Colorado Springs, you want a contractor you can trust to deliver exceptional results. At Stewart Remodeling, we combine years of experience, attention to detail, and a passion for creating beautiful spaces.

Don’t leave your remodeling project to chance—choose Stewart Remodeling for reliable, top-notch craftsmanship and personalized service. We understand what it takes to make your remodeling experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Ready to Get Started? Contact Stewart Remodeling Today!

Finding the right remodeling contractor in Colorado Springs doesn’t have to be a challenge. At Stewart Remodeling, we’re here to help you turn your vision into reality with our expertise and commitment to excellence. Whether you’re planning a small renovation or a complete home remodel, our team is ready to assist you every step of the way.

Give us a call at (719) 266-0336 to schedule your estimate and discuss your remodeling ideas. Schedule your consultation today, and let’s start planning the home of your dreams!

Designing Your Dream Home in Colorado

kitchens Designs and Renovations

Designing your dream home in Colorado is an exciting journey that allows you to transform your living space into a personalized oasis. At Stewart Remodeling, we understand your house reflects your unique style and aspirations. As one of the top remodelers in Colorado, we offer exceptional home remodeling services that cater to your specific needs.

With our expertise in custom home remodels, including kitchen and bathroom renovations, we have built a reputation for delivering stunning results that exceed our clients’ expectations. Whether you envision a luxury home remodeling project or an affordable renovation, our team of expert home contractors is dedicated to making your dream home a reality.

Your Vision Paired with Expert Craftsmanship

When designing your dream home in Colorado, finding a team that can bring your vision to life with expert craftsmanship is essential. The combination of your unique vision and their expertise will ensure that your dream home becomes a reality.

Understanding the Design and Build Process

A clear understanding of the design and build process is crucial for a successful home project. It involves several stages, from initial consultations and concept development to construction and final touches. By familiarizing yourself with the process, you can actively participate in decision-making and track the progress of your project.

Digital Walkthroughs: Visualizing Before Building

With the help of digital walkthroughs, you can visualize your dream home before it is even built. This technology lets you virtually explore different design options, layouts, and material choices. By seeing your house in a realistic representation, you can make informed decisions and ensure that the final result perfectly matches your vision.

Guaranteed Pricing for Peace of Mind

One of the concerns during any home construction or remodeling project is the possibility of unexpected costs. However, with guaranteed pricing, you can have peace of mind knowing that the price you agree upon at the beginning of the project will remain unchanged. This eliminates any surprises along the way and allows you to budget accordingly.

To turn your dream home into a reality, finding a team that understands your vision, follows an efficient design and build process, offers digital walkthroughs for visualization, and provides guaranteed pricing is crucial. With the right experts, you can create a home that reflects your unique style and preferences.

Assembling Your Dream Team in Colorado

Building your dream home in Colorado requires assembling a talented team of professionals who can bring your vision to life. Each member of your dream team plays a crucial role in making your dream home a reality. From selecting the right architect to finding a builder with a proven track record to incorporating interior design and leveraging the expertise of realtors, these professionals will guide you every step of the way.

Choosing the Right Architect

Choosing the right architect is among the most important decisions when designing your dream home in Colorado. The architect will work closely with you to understand your vision and translate it into a design that aligns with your preferences and lifestyle. They will consider your home’s functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability, creating a blueprint that brings your dream to life. Look for an architect with experience designing custom homes and understanding the unique challenges and opportunities the Colorado landscape offers.

Finding a Builder with a Track Record

Once you have your architectural plans, it’s time to find a builder who can make them a reality. Look for a builder with a track record of success in building high-quality homes in Colorado. They should have experience working with custom designs and be able to provide references and examples of their work. A skilled builder will bring your vision to life and ensure that the construction process runs smoothly and efficiently, keeping your project on time and within budget.

Interior Design: The Finishing Touch

Interior design is vital in creating a home that reflects your style and enhances your lifestyle. Collaborating with an interior designer will help you choose the right finishes, materials, and furnishings to bring your dream home to life. They will work closely with you to understand your preferences and create a cohesive and harmonious design throughout your home. From choosing the perfect color palette to selecting furniture and accessories, their expertise will transform your house into a beautiful and functional home.

The Role of Realtors in Dream Home Creation

Realtors are crucial in helping you find land and navigate the real estate process. They have extensive knowledge of the local market and can assist you in finding the perfect location for your dream home in Colorado. A realtor will also advocate for your best interests during negotiations and ensure that the transaction’s legal and financial aspects are handled correctly. Their expertise and guidance will make finding and acquiring the land for your dream home seamless and stress-free.

Dream Home Remodels of Colorado

If remodeling your existing home is your goal, working with a design-build firm offers numerous benefits. Selecting the right design-build firm ensures a streamlined process and cohesive collaboration. Whether you’re looking to transform your kitchen, bathroom, or entire home, custom styles and quality craftsmanship are key factors to consider. By choosing the expertise of a design-build firm, you can bring your dream home remodel to life in Colorado.

Selecting a Design-Build Firm

When remodeling your dream home in Colorado, selecting the right design-build firm is required. A design-build firm combines the expertise of architects, designers, and builders under one roof, providing a seamless and efficient process from start to finish. Working with a design-build firm eliminates the need to coordinate multiple contractors and ensures clear communication throughout the project.

When selecting a design-build firm, consider factors such as their portfolio, expertise, and reputation in the industry. Look for firms with experience in remodeling projects like yours and a track record of delivering high-quality results. Additionally, I read client testimonials and reviews to gauge the firm’s level of customer satisfaction.

Custom Styles and Quality Craftsmanship

One of the advantages of working with a design-build firm for your dream home remodel is the opportunity to incorporate custom styles and quality craftsmanship. A design-build firm will have a team of skilled designers and craftsmen who can bring your vision to life with precision and attention to detail.

Whether you desire a modern, contemporary design or a more traditional aesthetic, the design-build firm will work closely with you to understand your preferences and translate them into a cohesive design plan. From selecting high-quality materials to creating custom-made elements, the design-build firm will ensure that every aspect of your dream home remodel reflects your unique style.

Quality craftsmanship is essential for a successful remodel project. The design-build firm’s team of experienced builders and craftsmen will execute the construction phase with precision and expertise, ensuring that every detail is meticulously crafted. By prioritizing quality craftsmanship, you can expect a dream home remodel that looks stunning and stands the test of time.

Incorporating Luxury and Budget in Your Colorado Home

Designing your dream home in Colorado is an exciting endeavor that allows you to create a personalized oasis. While luxury and style are essential, it’s equally important to consider your budget to ensure your dream home remains within financial reach. By incorporating luxury and budget considerations, you can create a home that satisfies your desires without compromising your financial stability.

Defining Your Preliminary Budget

Before diving into the design process, defining your preliminary budget is crucial. This step helps guide your decision-making process and lets you make informed choices about what luxury features and design elements you can incorporate into your home. Working closely with your design-build team, such as Stewart Remodeling, can help ensure your vision aligns with your budgetary constraints.

The Importance of Transparent Costing

Transparent costing is an essential aspect of designing your dream home. It involves working with a design-build firm that provides a detailed breakdown of costs and communicates any potential expenses upfront. This transparency lets you make informed decisions, avoid surprises, and stay on track with your budget. Stewart Remodeling, for example, offers transparent costing to ensure no hidden fees or unexpected financial burdens.

AdvantagesConsiderations

  • It enables you to prioritize luxury features within your budget
  • It helps prevent overspending and financial strain
  • It gives you control over the overall cost of your dream home
  • Requires careful planning and budget allocation
  • It may involve trade-offs between luxury and budget
  • Needs ongoing communication and collaboration with the design-build team

Beyond Construction: Warranty and Post-Build Support

Building your dream home in Colorado is an exhilarating experience that extends beyond the construction phase. It’s essential to consider the warranty and post-build support offered by your chosen builder to ensure your investment’s long-term integrity and satisfaction.

A comprehensive home warranty is an essential safeguard that provides peace of mind. It covers any potential issues arising after the build process, allowing you to enjoy your dream home without concerns. With a reliable warranty, you can rest assured that your builder stands behind their work and is committed to your satisfaction.

When choosing a builder for your dream home in Colorado, prioritize those offering comprehensive warranties and reliable post-build support. This commitment to your long-term satisfaction demonstrates their dedication to delivering a quality home and standing by it even after construction.

Maximizing Investment: The Collaborative Approach in Colorado

Maximizing your investment is a top priority when designing and building your dream home in Colorado. One way to accomplish this is by adopting a collaborative approach throughout the process. By working together with your design-build team, you can ensure that every aspect of your home reflects your vision and meets your expectations.

Facilitating Clear Communication for a Smooth Process

Clear communication is essential in any successful project, and building your dream home is no exception. By fostering open and transparent communication with your design-build team, you can avoid misunderstandings and ensure everyone is on the same page. Regular meetings and updates will help keep the project on track and address any concerns or changes.

Review Case Studies and Client Testimonials

One of the best ways to gauge the success and satisfaction of a design-build firm is by reviewing their case studies and client testimonials. This valuable information provides insights into their previous projects and how well they have met their client’s expectations. By studying their work and hearing from earlier clients, you can gain confidence in their abilities and make an informed decision for your dream home project.

Conclusion

Building or remodeling your dream home in Colorado is a unique opportunity to create a space that embodies your vision and lifestyle. With the guidance and expertise of Stewart Remodeling, you can find the perfect fit for your dream home vision. By carefully considering your design preferences, budget, and desired level of luxury, you can embark on this transformative journey with confidence.

Creating your legacy in Colorado means investing in a home that meets your current needs and provides a space for future generations. Stewart Remodeling understands the importance of careful planning and attention to detail, ensuring your dream home will stand the test of time. With their skilled team by your side, you can confidently bring your dream home to life and leave a lasting legacy in Colorado.

Designing Your Dream Home in Colorado FAQs

Choosing the right architect for your dream home in Colorado is a crucial step towards turning your vision into reality. Start by researching architects in the Denver area or specific regions like Larkspur, Fraser, Grand Lake, or Winter Park, depending on where you plan to build. Look for architects with experience in designing custom homes that align with your style preferences and requirements. Check their portfolios to see if their previous projects resonate with what you envision for your dream house. Consider their expertise in energy-efficient designs, as Colorado’s climate and terrain can influence the home’s efficiency.

To get started with building a custom home in Larkspur or any other location in Colorado, the first step is to find a reputable general contractor who specializes in custom home builds. They will guide you through the entire process, from obtaining necessary permits to coordinating subcontractors. Discuss your budget, timeline, and design preferences with the contractor to create a detailed plan. Consider factors like the size of the home, desired features, and any unique aspects you want to incorporate into the design.

Determining the right size for your dream home in Colorado involves considering your lifestyle, family size, and future needs. Think about how many bedrooms and bathrooms you need, as well as additional spaces like a home office, laundry room, or entertainment area. Your budget and the available land in areas like Black Forest or the Colorado Front Range may also influence the size of the home you can build. Work with your architect and contractor to create floor plans that optimize space and functionality while staying within your budget.

Balancing luxury and budget when designing your dream home in Colorado requires careful planning and prioritization. Identify the elements that are most important to you, whether it’s high-end finishes, custom fixtures, or energy-efficient features. Allocate your budget accordingly, focusing on areas that will have the greatest impact on your overall satisfaction with the home. Consider alternatives like using locally sourced materials or opting for cost-effective flooring and countertops to achieve the desired aesthetic without overspending.

New construction homes in Colorado are typically more energy-efficient than pre-owned homes due to advancements in building materials and technologies. Builders can incorporate features like energy-efficient windows, insulation, HVAC systems, and appliances to reduce energy consumption and lower utility bills. Additionally, new homes are often constructed to meet current building codes and standards, ensuring better insulation and sealing against drafts and air leaks compared to older homes.

The time it takes to build a custom home in Colorado can vary depending on factors such as the complexity of the design, availability of materials, and weather conditions. On average, the process can take anywhere from six months to over a year from the initial planning stages to completion. Work closely with your contractor to establish a realistic timeline and monitor progress throughout the construction process.

The cost of building a custom home in Castle Rock or any other area of Colorado can vary widely based on factors such as the size of the home, design complexity, quality of materials, and local labor costs. Generally, custom homes in Colorado can range from $200 to $500 or more per square foot, depending on the level of customization and luxury features. It’s essential to obtain detailed estimates from multiple contractors and factor in additional costs for permits, landscaping, and interior finishes.

Creating a home in Colorado that leaves a lasting legacy involves designing a space that reflects your values, lifestyle, and personal aesthetic while considering the needs of future generations. Incorporate timeless design elements, durable materials, and energy-efficient features to ensure the home stands the test of time. Consider features like a wood-burning stove, craftsman-style architecture, and thoughtful landscaping that enhance the home’s appeal and longevity. Work with your architect and contractor to create a home that you’re proud to pass down to future generations.

Fireplace Remodeling

Wi Fireplace Remodeling

Upgrading your fireplace

Fireplace remodeling. When you’ve been in the world of remodeling for nearly a quarter of a century, you see firsthand where money is saved when homes are built, good or bad.

Carpeted bathroom floors (hey, at least your feet stay warmer), postage stamp-sized decks built out of fir, and MDF boxes in kitchens fitted with golden oak facing – portrayed as cabinetry.

But let’s not forget those seldom-used, inefficient recessed openings in your living rooms, providing an excellent draft during the winter months, likely accentuated with red bricks, better known as a fireplace. Before recent energy efficiency codes, can we say that those fireplaces were any different than what our forefathers had?

With so many of these inefficient fireplaces installed in many homes, perhaps you’re one of those considering an upgrade. Here are a few things to remember if you’re venturing down that path.

Remodeling Fireplace Options and Design

Most local fireplace retailers focus on the sale and installation of fireplaces only. When it comes to fireplace remodeling, homeowners are, for the most part, on their own. However, many homeowners who replace their fireplaces also need to update the area around the fireplace.

Remodeling the area around the fireplace could include things like a building permit, demolition, framing, hearths, mantels, electrical work, masonry work, tile work, cabinetry, countertops, lighting, flooring, drywall repair, and painting.

When considering the multitude of these remodeling options, design help is essential. Since 2014, Stewart Remodel Design Build has employed interior designers to work with our clients on all remodeling projects, including fireplaces.

We have updated many fireplaces over the years, sometimes as one-offs and other times as part of a larger remodeling project, like a kitchen remodel or a whole house.

There is a gap in the Fireplace Remodeling Industry

Recognizing that there is a gap in the fireplace remodeling industry since no single company installs the fireplace while also remodeling the area around it, we have focused on fireplace installation and remodeling by hiring Kevin Fields. Kevin has decades of experience in the fireplace, outdoor heater, and BBQ industry.  

We recently acquired a mechanical license with the building department to perform all fireplace work in-house, including running gas lines. 

Lastly, we have established accounts with multiple fireplace manufacturers, like Regency, Majestic, and Heat and Glo, to name a few. This enables us to buy directly, helping to reduce costs. 

Winter will be here sooner than any of us would like, which makes now a great time to reach out to Stewart Remodel Design Build to get a head start on that fireplace remodel. 

See some of our fireplace before and after photos, or learn more about our fireplace remodeling services.

BUYER BEWARE – Use Caution When Considering a Flipped House

buyer beware use caution when considering a flipped house

BUYER BEWARE - Use Caution When Considering a Flipped Home

Over 8% of homes sold nationally in 2022 were “flipped,” 407,417, the highest percentage this century. A flipped house is a home purchased and sold in less than one year.

TV shows glorifying house flipping have certainly increased its popularity, as has the opportunity to generate income quickly. The barrier to entry is only financial; it has nothing to do with one’s experience or skillset.

Naturally, if more homes are flipped, then more homes are converted in a less-than-desirable manner, where quality may be the last consideration. Of course, the same could be said for any remodeled home; the scale is linear, and the results vary drastically.

Why Should You Care if it is a Flipped House?

It would be best if you cared because you could purchase one of these homes and have to make an unwanted decision. Do you pay to remodel your new home that was supposed to be updated, or do you turn around and sell? We’ve had multiple clients exercise both options.
Here are a few things we’ve seen over the years that you’ll want to look for when viewing a flipped or remodeled house.

Can I see a home two or three times before making an offer? When the market was at its peak, the answer was a resounding no, but things have cooled off a bit, so that may be feasible. It isn’t easy to catch some rather apparent things the first time you see a property, especially the functionality of spaces like kitchens.

Buying unseen properties carries a tremendous risk; we’ve seen it firsthand. Our potential client purchased the home without seeing it, closed on it, invited us over, and realized there was far too much work. He sold the property without moving in.

Cutting Corners with a Flipped House


Installing “cheap” kitchen cabinets can save a flipper/remodeler many thousands of dollars. Open a drawer, is it stapled together? Does it have the essential drawer guides that don’t fully extend, no soft close features, and no rollout trays?

If you answered yes to these questions, you own a basic builder-grade set of cabinets. Replacing them means replacing the countertop, and the full-blown remodel is on.

Flooring, many options, massive price variances, performance, and warranties. Flooring bought off the shelves can be many times less expensive than a higher quality product, looks great when it’s new, but is less likely to stand up to the test of time, kids, pets, or sunlight.
If the flooring is throughout the house, try to find out what type has been installed. An extra box with the product’s name may be in the crawl space.

We don’t work with plumbers who will warranty plumbing fixtures purchased from a box store because the callback rate is much higher.

Box store plumbing fixtures are de-engineered and mass-produced with margin in mind. Interior components contain plastic parts instead of brass. They are sold for much less than a similar-looking fixture sold through a plumbing supply house. It’s difficult to tell the two apart; just be prepared to replace those less expensive fixtures.

So Buyer Beware when purchasing a flipped house.

If you’re considering a remodel with quality in mind, we hope you’ll keep Stewart Remodel Design Build in mind, too.

Remodeling with Aging in Place in Mind

remodeling for aging in place to stay in your homes longer

Aging in place to stay in your home longer.

I can only recall two instances when my mother, the happiest, most loving person on Earth, became distraught. One of those occurrences happened when my sister and I discussed making plans for the last chapter of our mom’s life, a chapter that would eventually include moving out of her home of 38 years and into a “retirement” home.

People prefer to stay in their homes.

Our mother’s trepidation to even consider moving years from now is not unlike many others. In a recent AARP survey, 77% of adults fifty or older said they would prefer to stay in their homes for the long term. 

Other studies support people living in their homes longer, including one conducted by the Harvard JCHS, which concluded that in the 1980s, homeowners moved on average once every five years. By 2019, homeowners have moved once every ten years. 

There are a variety of reasons people are staying in their homes longer, including working past the age of 65 (20% of the population), millennial kids living at home (the highest rate since the Great Depression), remaining healthy and active, and the high cost of moving, to name a few. 

The percentage of people aging in place is only going to increase.

The percentage of people remaining in their homes longer will presumably continue to increase since there will be an estimated 71.5 million Americans aged 65 or older by 2030, twice as many as in 2000. 

In the remodeling sector, we have also seen this play out. When considering moving versus remodeling their homes, our clients have overwhelmingly decided to stay. They are often empty nesters, updating their homes to suit their tastes and needs better, knowing they will last indefinitely. Or they’ve made modifications out of necessity – health-related. 

Universal Design, which focuses on accessibility so we can live safely and comfortably through various stages of our lives, didn’t exist when many of our homes were built. These homes may not have main-level living but instead have lots of stairs, narrow doorways, and rooms defined with walls. 

Solutions for Aging in Place.

But there are solutions, like widening doorways, leveling floors, and installing chairlifts on stairs, elevators, and even ADUs.

More common modifications during a remodel, with accessibility in mind, include slip-resistant flooring, removal of walls, levers instead of knobs, grab bars in bathrooms, curbless showers, benches in showers, and roll-out trays and shelving, to name a few.

Two members of our staff at Stewart Remodel Design Build carry the CAPS designation (Aging in Place Certified), so if you, too, have decided to stay in your home for years to come, please get in touch with us to discuss options on how to remodel your house with Aging in Place in mind.  

What is Design Build Remodeling

Twenty-plus years ago, the term design-build pertained to the high-end custom home sector. At that time, it didn’t exist in the world of remodeling. But design-build has become the newest buzzword in remodeling.

At a recent remodeling contractor event held in Scottsdale, Arizona, every company in attendance from across the country defined themselves as a design-build. Yet the descriptions of their design-build processes varied drastically.

For some, design-build meant knowing a designer and having a tile rack in the corner of an office. The other side of the spectrum is a team-oriented, process-driven design phase. It is ever evolving to improve, which better describes our approach.

What does Design Build Mean?

Before defining the most critical pieces of the design-build process, let’s define what “design-build” means.
Design-Build is a process where one company takes ownership of everything, from establishing the layout (schematics) to finalizing selections with clients, purchasing, developing subcontractor scopes of work, and project management.

It’s an all-inclusive approach to remodeling that minimizes the client’s work and prepares the construction team for the job ahead while producing better, more unified results.

For Stewart Remodel Design Build, the evolution of our design-build process began out of necessity. For the better part of a decade, we were a deck-building company and still are today.

We occasionally dabbled with remodeling, only to conclude that remodeling was complex, utterly void of pitfalls, fiscally challenging, and something we preferred to avoid.

When our Design Build Process Began

It wasn’t until we hired a designer, Tera Kane, that we pursued remodels seriously, and our design-build process began. Without a robust design phase, the chances of success are unlikely, no matter how you want to define it. We proved this repeatedly, no matter how well-intended we were.

Does this mean design-build brings about perfection? No, as much as I’d like to tell you otherwise, it brings us closer to our goal of providing the best service possible.

What are some of the important pieces of the design build process?

As mentioned, not all design-build is the same, so what are the most essential pieces of the design-build process?

When plans are developed, even for something as “basic” as a kitchen, does the person completing those plans (often a designer) understand construction? I can’t tell you how many plans we’ve seen where load-bearing walls disappear, sinks are relocated, and appliances moved – and the cost and impact on the house would make those changes unrealistic.

Is the design outsourced?

Is the design outsourced, or is the designer an employee of the construction company? We used to take on an occasional job designed by someone else at the owner’s request, but we no longer will. Those jobs never went as well as we expected due to a lack of teamwork, lack of clarity in roles and responsibilities, and lack of familiarity with each other. Too many unknowns negatively impacted the construction process.

When a designer is part of the same company as the construction team, you have cohesion, processes are in place, and the client ends up with a team of people, including an estimator, who knows their project intimately well and sees it through to the end.

Who purchases the materials? Having local and national accounts as a reseller has two distinct advantages. The first is cost savings. Secondly, and more importantly, when materials arrive damaged or are incorrect, we have a company rep to call to fix the problem who knows us, knows our business, and is vested in making things right.

Subcontractors are an extension of the staff

A company’s team of subcontractors is an extension of the staff. Without buy-in from the trades, such as plumbers, electricians, drywallers, and painters – a company’s goals will never be achieved, no matter how good the planning is. The reverse is also true. If the trades aren’t set up to succeed, they’ll stop working for us.

We had this discussion with one of our electricians recently; we asked them if we were setting them up well. Their answer was yes; they prefer to work with our company due to the level of detail our designers provide and the organization of our project managers.

They did ask if, in the future, we could provide appliance specs for existing appliances that remain. We provide specs for everything installed, including new appliances, but we will now add existing appliance specs to the list.

Trying to take care of the trades does buy us some grace, too, and gets us a few extras along the way when needed.

Having a design center for Design Build Remodeling

A design center sure has advantages for the designer and the client. It serves as a place to have meetings, review materials during the selection process, and look at displays, and it minimizes the legwork and time of the client. Maintaining an office with a design center also lends credibility, which is something to consider when investing in your home. 

If you are considering a remodeling or exterior project or want to know more about our design-build services, please call us at (719) 266-0336.

Home Repair vs. Home Remodeling

Timbertech decking, custom wrought iron railing, spiral stairs, Rockrimmon

Repair and remodeling are two terms commonly used interchangeably. While both home repair and remodeling projects will update and enhance your living space, each has its considerations and benefits. Understanding the difference can be helpful when selecting the best upgrade you need for your home.

What is Home Repair?

A home repair is a resolution of home maintenance issues in your home. There are several DIY home repair projects, but working with an experienced contractor is better to help identify and fix problems before they worsen.

The cost of significant repairs may warrant the need for a full-scale home improvement. Therefore, it is essential to contact a contractor to determine how much money and time you will be willing to invest in the repair project. At Stewart Remodeling, we will list all the repairs and help you decide whether to consider full-scale repair or remodel services.

Some of the home repairs to consider include:

  • Fixing leaky bathroom or kitchen pipes
  •  Roof Repair
  •  Replacing faucets
  •  Tile re-grouting
  •  Fixing running toilet

What a Home Remodeling Service Entails

Remodeling involves changing the design and functionality of your home. It may entail reconfiguring a kitchen to accommodate your storage needs or tearing out a wall to create more space for your home office. Besides, installing or constructing a new structure to your home may also be a remodel.

It is worth noting that remodeling entails more than just making significant structural changes. It might include turning a home office into a guest bedroom. This means that repurposing the function of an area of your home is remodeling.

Contact Stewart Remodeling Today

The best thing you can do as a Colorado Springs, Monument, or Larkspur homeowner is to seek help from a qualified contractor before embarking on a repair or remodeling project. Contact us today to discover how we can help you make the right home improvement decision.