FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

At Crown Construction Inc. in Dryden, NY, we want to make sure you have all the answers you need regarding your upcoming renovation project.  That’s why we are always available to answer any questions you may have.  Browse through the frequently asked questions below to learn more about our services and contact us for more information.

I have lots of ideas. Can Crown Construction tell me which ideas will work best for my project?

Yes, absolutely. We feel it is very important to hear your ideas. After all, you know your home and needs better than anyone else. Our initial meeting with you always starts with learning about your project’s goals and priorities.  Our design consultants can take your ideas, assess what’s feasible, determine what the costs will be, then guide you to the choices that are best for your situation. So don’t be shy about expressing your ideas for the remodeling project.

When is the best time to remodel my home?

Home remodeling, with a few exceptions, can be performed on a year-round basis. However, below are some special weather related considerations to keep in mind:

  • If you’re considering an addition, the footing/foundation concrete/masonry work would ideally be done when the earth is not frozen and temperatures are above freezing. In Central New York State, this often means avoiding footing/foundation work in January and February. There are additives that get mixed with the concrete and mortar to compensate for freezing temperatures to allow cold weather work. Once a foundation is in place, the framing and other necessary construction can commence despite cold or hot weather.
  • If you’re opening the roof to do a second story addition, roof repair or roof replacement, it’s best to do the work when there is less rain and snow to get in while the frame is open, which means late spring, summer and fall.

Will the remodel be noisy?  When?

Construction is inherently noisy; there will be noise at varying levels throughout the home renovation process. We will give you advance notice during the really noisy phases, particularly, concrete cutting, tile cutting, floor sanding, etc. so that you can plan your days accordingly.  If there’s going to be a lot of hammering, we suggest you remove objects that hang on adjacent walls to prevent them from being knocked off by the vibrations.

Will it be dusty and dirty?

The dust and dirt will be the worst in the demolition phase. Once we’ve got things stripped down to the frame, things will be fairly clean. Drywall installation and sanding will create a lot of very fine dust for a few days. We do our best to contain the dust, but a little will always get through. It’s a good idea to cover items like electronics or fine furniture during this phase.

Will I be without power/water/gas during the remodel?

Depending on the scope of your home remodeling project, there may be some brief interruption to utilities.  For example, if we connect new gas lines to your appliances, we will need to shut-off the gas during this process.  This could take a whole day. Moving or upgrading an electrical panel will likely also take a whole day. In any case, we will give you advance warning so that you can plan accordingly.

When do I need to make decisions on appliances, fixtures, etc.?

We prefer that you make all your final appliance and fixture selections well before the start of the work. The technical specifications of the items you choose are essential for our overall design and execution plans. Our design team will work with you navigate your way through the many options to the final selections that are right for you.

Can I request or change things during the remodel?

The Crown Construction process ensures that you and our design team work out all the details before construction starts. In the event that a change is required, either client driven or by an unforeseen condition, it is easily handled with a standard form we call a “Change Order”.  Change orders can increase costs and affect the work schedule so we encourage our clients to have minimal changes in order to avoid project delays or cost overruns.

How will I be kept informed about the progress of my project?

You will have easy access to your job Foreman and our Production Manager and can expect ongoing communication throughout the renovation process. When completed, we do a final project walkthrough to ensure every detail of your project is completed to your satisfaction.

Do I need a permit?

A general rule of thumb is that a permit will be required if structural alterations are planned, plumbing or electrical locations are to be altered or if a large percentage of the general living area of the home is changed. This is true for bathroom remodels, a kitchen makeover, finished basements, or many other remodeling services.

Does Crown Construction handle all of the necessary permits?

Yes. It is our responsibility as your design-build contractor to handle any necessary permits. The permitting process has become more complex over time because of changing laws and regulations. Being aware of what kinds of questions to ask, and when to ask them, can save valuable time, energy and expense. We have the advantage of working with the various permitting agencies throughout the area and understand how to effectively navigate the process.

How long will my home renovation project take?

Each home remodel is unique, so there is no standard answer. The duration of your project depends on the size of the renovation project, existing conditions, scope of work and materials/finishes to be used. At Crown Construction, we prepare a construction schedule for each remodeling project based on our full understanding of the scope. We work together with you to ensure it can be completed within the estimated time frame.

Will my family need to move out of our home during construction?

If you are contemplating a whole house remodel, then yes, you will probably need to find other living arrangements during the construction period. Our remodeling process is structured to minimize turnaround time, so that you are not inconvenienced any longer than necessary. In manner other smaller-scale home remodeling projects, you should be able to remain in your house.

If you had advice for homeowners looking to remodel, what would it be?

A homeowner with a realistic budget, expectations, timeframe, patience, and a sense of humor will find the home renovation process reasonably pleasant. We understand how stressful the remodeling process is on homeowners and that they can’t wait for that “ahhhhh” moment when we’re finished!  As we like to say, “They’re happy to see us arrive, but they’re even happier to see us go!”.  Also, if you’re considering a major remodeling project (in the range of $100,000 plus) staying in the house 10 – 20 years will give you the best return on investment. Keep in mind that in most cases, it’s not wise to treat your home as a short-term real estate investment; it is a home and should be well maintained for the lasting comfort and protection of your family.  And finally, be sure to call Crown Construction for all your home remodeling needs!

Contact Us

We are excited to work with you on your upcoming project.  Contact us today to learn more.