Q: What is a Pre-Construction Agreement?

A: It is very difficult, if not impossible to give you an accurate bid for a large job when there are no designs, plans, etc...YET. A Pre-Construction Agreement, or a PCA will allow us to create those designs and plans and help you walk through the selection process for materials, fixtures, etc. It also helps us understand your vision for your project, as well as the level of fixtures and finishes you are wanting. We need them because they enable us to give you an accurate, guaranteed lump sum price for your project. PCAs are priced based on the size of the project. If you decide at the end of the PCA that you don’t want to move forward with the project, you still have all of the designs and plans saved for when you are ready.

Q: Why is Arkwright not a true design/build firm?

A: While we help with the designs and services of our customers, we feel that working with many quality designers gives us an advantage to create within our customer’s style and what they truly want, without being locked into one style. Working with various design firms allows a construction company to adapt to different design styles and approaches, offering more flexibility to clients who may have specific design preferences or pre- existing relationships with architects.

Q: Can I continue to live in my home during the remodel?

A: Remodeling can be dusty and noisy during construction, and each customer’s situation and tolerances are unique. We do our best to minimize the effects and impacts the process has on you. If you are remodeling a single bathroom or kitchen, we can set up a temporary area for you to utilize during the work. If we are working on multiple areas in your home, we recommend vacating during construction. If you have no space where you can find peace and quiet, a remodel can become tiresome quickly.

Q: Should I get multiple bids and pick the lowest price?

A: There are plenty of ways to cut corners to create lower price. Competitive bidding rewards to lowest price and offers absolutely no advantage to good workmanship. We prefer to do things the best way. “Best” means, in our opinion, the most effective combination of price combination of price to performance—getting the most bang for your buck.

Q: Why should I hire a General Contractor, when as the homeowner I can act as my own contractor?

A: It depends on the size of the project and your personal experience with construction, but many homeowners lack the experience necessary to act as a general contractor for their projects. We also offer a network of connections, so if we call in a subcontractor (Trade Partner), you can be rest assured that they are high quality and not just the only available guy. Being a General Contractor is a job with a very high stress level and a full-time job. If you already have a day job, the level of time management required to be a General Contractor is just not available to you. Many homeowners mistakenly believe that being their own GC is going to save them time and money. You may start out with a project that is going to cost you less than hiring a GC, but it can quickly build. Your time is valuable as is your piece of mind. Why not save both and hire someone who can focus 100% on your project.

Q: Can I buy the materials and just have you install them?

A: No. We need to be able to control the ordering process to ensure proper material style, size, hardware, and accessories are ordered. We also cannot offer you any warranty on materials we do not supply. It also helps us ensure materials are delivered on time and without damage.

Q: How long is my remodel going to take?

A: Our team members are often asked how long a residential remodel will take. The answer to that varies depending on the size and complexity of the project. Typically, a whole home remodel which involves the kitchen, at least one bathroom, and other parts of the home takes a minimum of 4-5 months from start to completion. At Arkwright, before we start your project, we have a project specialist put together a calendar laying out exactly what to expect and a reliable timeline for the completion of your project.