7 Bathroom Remodeling Tips

Thinking about remodeling your Minnesota bathroom? Excel Builders can help! We’ve completed our fair share of bathroom remodels over the years, and it’s safe to say we’re experts at what we do. Use the 7 bathroom remodeling tips below to learn how to successfully upgrade your bathroom!

1. Create a Budget & Design Plan

Remodeling your bathroom is an investment, and proper planning is essential to a successful project. Two of the biggest factors in the planning process are creating a budget and a detailed design plan. The two go hand-in-hand, determining the scale of your project and the materials and finishes you use.

Working with an experienced design-build company like Excel Builders can help you determine the best budget and design for your home. That’s because you get one-on-one design help from an expert who is familiar with your project goals and the costs associated with achieving them.

2. Plan for Ventilation

Bathrooms are naturally damp and humid. Unfortunately, this leaves them vulnerable to mold, mildew, and odors that impact the bathroom — and the rest of your home. The best way to prevent moisture-related problems is with proper ventilation. As you plan your remodel, be sure to include features that make it easy to dispel moisture and steam. Depending on the size and location of your bathroom, this may include vents, fans, and windows.

3. Maximize Storage With a Custom Bathroom Vanity

If you want to make a big splash in your bathroom renovation, don’t skimp on cabinetry! Your bathroom vanity adds style and essential storage for towels, toiletries, and other items. There are plenty of cabinet options available, from prefabricated to custom, but if you want to elevate the look and feel of your space, a custom bathroom vanity will do the trick.

Unlike stock cabinets, custom bathroom cabinets are designed to your exact specifications, so there’s no wasted space. It also allows you to add personalized design details, such as a built-in makeup vanity, hot tool holders, or a towel warming drawer.

4. Utilize Niches & Recessed Storage

Speaking of storage space, bathrooms of all sizes can benefit from niches and recessed storage areas. These recessed areas are built into walls, meaning they don’t take up valuable real estate — a huge plus in small bathrooms! Use this bathroom remodeling tip to build a niche in the shower and by the bathtub to hold shampoo, body wash, and other items.

5. Pick the Right Flooring

Your bathroom flooring shouldn’t just look good; it should also be durable, slip-proof, and water-resistant. While that may seem like a tall order, there are many high-end and budget-friendly options that fit the bill. Traditional tile and luxury vinyl tile are two popular options because they’re waterproof, slip-resistant, and available in a wide range of colors and styles.

6. Add Pops of Luxury

You can create a luxurious bathroom without investing in a ton of expensive materials and finishes. You can easily get a high-end look by splurging in a few strategic areas and saving in others. Consider splurging on a decked-out walk-in tile shower or a freestanding soaking tub to make a significant visual impact. Hidden touches, such as heated floors, can add another level of luxury — one you’ll be grateful for during chilly winter mornings!

7. Make a Lighting Plan

When it comes to bathroom remodeling tips, this one often gets overlooked. However, lighting is one of the most important finishing touches! Incorporate layers of ambient, task, accent, and decorative lighting to create a beautiful and well-lit space. A well-rounded lighting plan means you’ll have plenty of light to perform your morning routine, as well as the capability to dim the lights for a relaxing soak in the tub.

Bathroom Remodeling Expert in Minneapolis & Nearby

These bathroom remodeling tips will help you plan your renovation project, but you can never go wrong with hiring a professional remodeling company. In the Greater Chanhassen and Twin Cities West Metro, that’s Excel Builders. With over 20 years of experience, you can count on our bathroom remodeling experts to create the spa-like oasis of your dreams! We can even design and build a custom bathroom vanity and cabinets for your home!

Ready to get started? Call the Excel Builders team at (612) 306-4064 or email trent@excelbuildersmn.com. In the meantime, visit our project gallery for some design inspiration!

We proudly serve Minnesota homeowners in Minneapolis, Chanhassen, Plymouth, Edina, Carver, Chaska, Excelsior, Eden Prairie, Wayzata, Minnetonka, Shorewood, and the surrounding area.

The post 7 Bathroom Remodeling Tips appeared first on Excel Builders.

How to Prevent Common Home Remodeling Delays

When it comes to home remodeling, planning is critical. While a detailed project plan doesn’t necessarily guarantee smooth sailing, it can make all the difference when it comes to dealing with problems along the way. Better yet, having a plan in place can prevent lengthy delays — and the frustration and added costs that accompany them.

5 Common Home Remodeling Delays & How to Prevent Them

Every project is different, but most home remodeling delays can be traced back to problems with the following:

• Materials
• Timelines
• Design changes
• Permits and inspections
• Project budgets

Learn more below about these common delays and how to keep them from slowing down your home remodeling project.

1. Materials

Certain materials can delay a renovation project, especially when it comes to special ordered or custom-made finishes. In other cases, an item or material may be back-ordered, discontinued, or arrive damaged. And let’s not forget the supply chain issues and shipping delays that have become all too common these days.

Working with an experienced contractor can help mitigate material-related delays because they’ve likely fine-tuned their selections process and fostered strong relationships with vendors over the years. While interviewing remodeling companies be sure to ask the following questions:

• Which vendors do you use for materials and finishes?
• What is the selections process like?
• How often are vendor lists updated to accommodate product availability?
• How much lead time is required for custom materials and special ordered products?
• How much notice is typically provided if a product is no longer available?

2. Timelines

Whether you’re completing a small remodel or a large-scale project, there are a lot of moving parts to manage. Even one scheduling mix-up can have a domino effect that impacts the rest of the remodeling timeline, potentially pushing it back by several days, weeks, or months. The type of contractor you work with can play a significant role in how quickly the project is completed.

A traditional home remodeling contractor typically uses subcontractors to complete different construction phases. Unfortunately, this leaves them at the mercy of subcontractor schedules, which can change with little to no warning. In contrast, a design-build company is equipped to complete a large majority of the work in-house, from the initial design to construction and beyond. This limits delays and keeps your project on schedule and running smoothly.

3. Design Changes

Remodeling is a dynamic and complex process. With so many decisions to make, you may find yourself second-guessing your design selections — and that’s 100% okay. It’s why change orders exist. However, it’s essential to understand that making changes to the approved design proposal can result in a delay.

Working with a qualified designer can cut down on design indecision and keep changes to a minimum. At a design-build company, design services are built into the product offerings. This not only streamlines the process but helps you as the client feel comfortable making design choices. The designer is there to offer suggestions based on your style and budget and answer any questions you may have along the way.

4. Permits & Inspections

Permits and inspections are a natural — and important — part of the home remodeling process. If a permit hasn’t come through or an inspection is outstanding, the project may come to a standstill. A good contractor will be familiar with local permitting procedures and will incorporate enough lead time into the project schedule to accommodate the permitting and approval process.

5. Budget Overages

An accurate budget is a critical component of any remodeling project. Added costs can make or break the renovation, especially when it comes to financing and the schedule.

One way to ensure a project stays on track and within budget is to compare quotes from multiple companies. Does the cost of materials and labor seem consistent? It’s also essential to ask questions to ensure you understand what costs are included in the project proposal, including the project allowances.

Communication is Key to a Well-Executed Remodel

These tips will help you keep setbacks to a minimum, but sometimes delays are inevitable. That’s why effective communication is vital — and Excel Builders makes it a priority for every project. As a leading design-build company in the Greater Chanhassen and the Twin Cities area, we’ve fine-tuned our process to minimize project delays and keep things running smoothly. 

Reliable Home Remodeling Contractor in Greater Chanhassen & Nearby

Ready to start planning your remodel? Call the Excel Builders team at (612) 306-4064 or email trent@excelbuildersmn.com.

We proudly serve Minnesota homeowners throughout Greater Chanhassen and the Twin Cities West Metro, including Minneapolis, Plymouth, Edina, Carver, Chaska, Excelsior, Eden Prairie, Minnetonka, Shorewood, and the surrounding area.

The post How to Prevent Common Home Remodeling Delays appeared first on Excel Builders.

5 Reasons to Hire a Custom Cabinet Maker for Your Home Remodeling Project

Thinking about remodeling your kitchen or bathroom? Maybe you want to create good-looking, functional storage in a mudroom, craft room, or home office. Either way, you’ve probably considered whether to hire a custom cabinet maker for your home renovation.

After all, you could go with prefabricated or semi-custom cabinets and save a little bit of money. However, custom cabinets are worth the investment. The custom nature of this type of cabinet means they’re tailored to your exact needs and unique style — whether used in a kitchen, home theater, or basement bar. When done right, they have the power to totally elevate your home’s style and functionality.

But that doesn’t just mean settling for any old custom cabinet company. The key is to hire a custom cabinet maker that’s skilled in both cabinet design and construction. Doing so means you’ll get beautiful custom cabinets fabricated with the high-quality materials and next-level craftsmanship that ensures they last.

Why Hire a Custom Cabinet Maker?

Remodeling your home can be a big undertaking. There are a lot of things to consider, and many moving parts to juggle. Just like working with a professional home remodeler and interior designer, hiring a custom cabinet maker can make the process easier.

With years of experience, they have the knowledge, tools, and expertise to create custom cabinets that suit your home and budget. Learn more about the benefits below.

1. Tailor-Made Design

One of the biggest advantages of custom cabinets is that they’re designed and built to perfectly fit your home. Accurate measuring and layout planning ensure there’s no wasted space. This is an asset in homes with limited space or a room with a wonky footprint. The design process takes all of that into account to create custom cabinets that best utilize the space. Better yet, exact measurements eliminate the need for spacers or fillers so you can use every inch of storage space to your advantage.

2. Expert Design Assistance

Ideally, your custom cabinet design will check two very important boxes: looks and function — and it will do it while complementing the rest of your home. A cabinet designer can help you get the details just right. They’ll recommend cabinet styles based on your style preferences and the overall look you’d like to achieve. As far as function, they can help you choose the best storage accessories to get the most out of your custom cabinet design. 

3. Trend Awareness

If there’s one thing we all know, it’s that trends come and go. Custom cabinet design is no exception. The good news? Cabinet makers and designers always know what’s trending in the world of cabinet design — a huge advantage when it comes to creating the perfect blend of trendy and timeless.

4. Higher-Quality Materials

Unlike the stock cabinets you’d find at a big box store, custom cabinets are made using higher-quality materials. This is a significant benefit because the materials used dictate not just how your cabinets look, but how long they’ll last. Most cabinet makers have close relationships with materials suppliers because they tend to order large quantities. That often translates to better rates and more options to choose from when designing the cabinets for your home.

5. Superior Craftsmanship

When you invest in custom cabinets, you invest in craftsmanship. Custom cabinet makers have spent years mastering their craft. The planning and execution they bring to the table are skills that have been honed throughout years of working with various spaces, materials, and their clients’ personal styles. They’re an expert in their field and have a unique understanding of how to design cabinets that reflect your home and style.

Greater Chanhassen’s Trusted Home Remodeling Contractor

If you want to upgrade your Minnesota home, you can trust the experts at Excel Builders. We are a leading design-build company serving the Twin Cities West Metro and Greater Chanhassen area.

Our highly-skilled, experienced team can help transform your home with a kitchen renovation, bathroom remodel, mudroom makeover, and more. Better yet, we have an in-house custom cabinet shop and can design and build custom cabinets to take your home to the next level. We can even design, build, and install custom shelving, millwork, and furniture!

Ready to get the ball rolling on your remodeling and custom cabinet project? Contact our team at (612) 306-4064 or trent@excelbuildersmn.com today! In the meantime, check out our cabinet company’s project gallery for some cabinet design inspiration!

Excel Builders proudly serves homeowners throughout Greater Chanhassen and the Twin Cities West Metro, including Shorewood, Eden Prairie, Excelsior, Minneapolis, Wayzata, Minnetonka, Plymouth, Chaska, Edina, and nearby.

The post 5 Reasons to Hire a Custom Cabinet Maker for Your Home Remodeling Project appeared first on Excel Builders.

5 Tips to Design a Home for Entertaining

The holidays are coming up, and it’s got me thinking about gathering with loved ones. Your home plays a significant role in your ability to host friends and family during the holidays and throughout the year. It can be frustrating when it lacks the spaces and structure needed to comfortably accommodate your guests. The good news? You don’t have to move to get a hosting-friendly home. Keep reading for five home remodeling tips to design a home for entertaining.

How to Design a Home for Entertaining

Design is an essential component of any home remodeling project, whether it’s a small kitchen renovation or a complete overhaul of your home. When creating a home for entertaining, there are some key features to incorporate into your design plan.

1. A Hosting-Friendly Layout

One of the biggest considerations you have to make is your home’s layout. When it comes to hosting, an open floor plan is the best choice. This type of floor plan is excellent for hosting because it makes the home feel larger and more open. It can also accommodate a crowd while still feeling cozy and inviting. Extra touches, like a spacious kitchen island, allow you to mingle with guests while preparing food and drinks. 

2. Navigation and Flow

Traffic jams are frustrating on the road and in the home. Navigation and flow are critical to a home designed for entertaining. As you design your home, think about how people move from one space to the next. Add logical pathways and wide hallways to ensure people can move effortlessly throughout the home without bumping into things, cutting across workspaces, or invading others’ personal space. 

3. Entryway Storage

Guests come with an abundance of shoes and coats. Having a dedicated storage space keeps them from clogging up the entryway. If you have the room, consider adding a mudroom with a combination of hooks, cubbies, and lockers to keep shoes and outerwear organized and contained in one area.

Don’t have the space for a full-scale mudroom? Build a mini dropzone in the entryway or garage. Maximize the available space by adding a built-in bench with hidden storage and hooks.

4. Ample Seating

Hosting and seating go hand-in-hand. Make sure to have plenty of comfortable seating options for guests, including couches, chairs, and accents like poufs, pillows, and ottomans. There are also a lot of ways to add built-in seating that doesn’t get in the way or have to be stored when guests leave.

Some popular seating options include:

• Seating at the kitchen island
• Banquette seating in the kitchen or dining room
• Built-in benches or window seats in gathering spaces
• Seating around a basement bar

5. Guest Rooms & Sleeping Spaces

If you plan to have friends and family from out of town stay with you, they’ll need their own private space. This is where a dedicated guest room comes in handy — preferably with access to an adjoining bathroom. And don’t forget about the little ones! Bunk rooms are a wonderful way to create fun sleeping spaces for kids.

Trusted Home Remodeling Contractor in Minneapolis, MN & Nearby

Excel Builders can help you design a home for entertaining. We offer superior home design and remodeling services, including kitchen renovations, bathroom remodeling, basement finishing, and more. We even elevate your home with custom cabinets, millwork, and furniture designed and built in our in-house custom cabinet shop.

Want to learn more about how to create a hosting-friendly home with our design-build services? Get in touch with our team at (612) 306-4064 or trent@excelbuildersmn.com to get started. In the meantime, visit our project gallery for some design inspiration!

Excel Builders proudly serves Minnesota homeowners in the Greater Chanhassen and Twin Cities West Metro, including Minneapolis, Edina, Carver, Plymouth, Minnetonka, Chaska, Excelsior, Eden Prairie, Wayzata, Shorewood, and the surrounding area.

The post 5 Tips to Design a Home for Entertaining appeared first on Excel Builders.

Should You Add a Gazebo, Pergola, or Pavilion to Your Home?

If you’re looking to upgrade your home’s outdoor space, you may be considering a gazebo, pergola, or pavilion. While all three types of outdoor structures are great options, you may wonder which is best for your home. Although they have similar jobs — providing shade and weather protection — each outdoor structure has its own unique design and features.

Keep reading to learn the differences between a gazebo, pergola, and pavilion, their pros and cons, and how to decide which one best suits your needs.

Gazebos, Pergolas & Pavilions – What’s the Difference?

What is a Gazebo?

Gazebos are freestanding, open structures that are typically octagonal or hexagonal in shape. They have a solid roof and can be constructed using various materials, including wood, aluminum, and vinyl. Many gazebos include built-in seating and sometimes use latticework for added privacy, making them an ideal place to relax out of the sun.

Gazebo Pros & Cons

• Full shade and shelter from the elements
• 360-degree views
• Latticework and drapes can be used for added privacy
• Increases property value
• Cost varies depending on materials
• Challenging to keep clean
• Installation site must be leveled and well drained

What is a Pergola?

A pergola is an outdoor structure consisting of vertical columns that support a grid of crossed beams and rafters. Traditionally, the roofing grid is left open to provide partial shade but can be covered for total protection from the sun and elements. Pergolas are constructed from wood, vinyl, or aluminum and can be freestanding or attached to a house.

Pergola Pros & Cons

• Countless size, shape, and style options
• Can be independent or attached to an existing structure
• Easily combined with a pavilion to extend covered space
• Easy to keep clean
• Cost-effective
• Minimal site preparation required
• Some shade, but minimal protection from elements and bugs
• Limited options for roof styles
• Lack of privacy

What is a Pavillion?

Like gazebos and pergolas, pavilions provide shade and protection from the elements. While similar, a pavilion is completely open on all sides and is often used to provide a roof over large areas such as a patio, outdoor kitchen, or seating area. Depending on the size, the structure is typically supported by four or more posts and attached to a deck, patio pavers, or a concrete base.

Pavilion Pros & Cons

• Many options in terms of size, styles, and roof shapes
• Better protection from sun and rain
• Can be integrated with a pergola to extend the covered space
• Can be enclosed for added weather protection and privacy
• Easy to clean
• Permanent structure that requires careful planning
• Lack of privacy
• More expensive than other outdoor structures

What Outdoor Structure is Best for Your Minnesota Home?

All three types of outdoor structures have their pros and cons. As for deciding which is best for your home, the choice typically comes down to your budget, your needs and style preferences, and how much space you have in your yard.

In terms of cost, a pergola is often the simplest outdoor structure to build, making it the most budget-friendly. A gazebo is next in line while a pavilion is typically the most expensive. That said, it’s important to note that these price points can change depending on various factors. The materials used and the structure’s size and style are some of the biggest considerations. However, add-ons and extra features also impact the total cost of the structure.

Some popular add-ons include:

• Electricity for lighting, outlets, and other features
• Gas lines for fire features or outdoor kitchens
• Screens, retractable doors, and enclosed sides for added privacy and weather protection
• Built-in seating
• Roof features, such as a louvered pergola roof with rotating blades

No matter what outdoor structure you choose, you can’t go wrong. All three structures are beautiful and when done right, can boost the value of your home. The key is to work with an experienced, reputable home remodeling contractor like Excel Builders.

Experienced Remodeling Contractor in Minneapolis, MN & Nearby

If you’d like to enhance your home’s outdoor living space with a pergola, pavilion, or gazebo, Excel Builders can help. As a premium design-build company, we can design and execute remodeling projects of all types, including outdoor structures, home additions, kitchen remodels, basement finishing, and more. We even offer custom cabinetry, millwork, and furniture through our in-house custom cabinet shop!

When you’re ready to get started, contact our team at (612) 306-4064 or email trent@excelbuildersmn.com. Excel Builders proudly serves Minnesota homeowners throughout Greater Chanhassen and the Twin Cities West Metro, including Minneapolis, Chaska, Plymouth, Edina, Carver, Excelsior, Shorewood, Eden Prairie, Minnetonka, and the surrounding area.

The post Should You Add a Gazebo, Pergola, or Pavilion to Your Home? appeared first on Excel Builders.

7 Outdoor Kitchen Design Tips

If you want to take your backyard entertaining up a notch, you can’t go wrong with an outdoor kitchen. This outdoor space has many benefits, including expanding your living and entertaining space, reducing energy bills during the warmer months, and boosting your home’s value.

Sold on adding an outdoor kitchen to your home? Then, it’s time to start planning! Use the outdoor kitchen design tips below to get started.

How to Design an Outdoor Kitchen

Choose the Right Location

There’s a lot to think about when deciding on the location of your outdoor kitchen. Of course, the size of your backyard and the location of any existing outdoor living spaces will play a significant factor. You also have to consider how you plan to use the space and any other features you want to add, such as a lounge area, bar, or firepit. These things will help you decide on the outdoor kitchen’s location, size, and layout.

Decide on the Style

An outdoor kitchen is an extension of your home. To create a cohesive look, the space has to blend well with your home’s exterior and landscaping. You can easily carry over exterior elements, such as brick, stone, and wood, into the outdoor kitchen design. 

Select a Grill & Appliances

When it comes to outdoor kitchen design, the grill is the centerpiece. Grills come in various sizes and styles, making it easy to find an option that suits your outdoor kitchen design. For most, a medium size grill (between 27 and 33 inches) is more than enough. However, if you’re a grilling guru or love to host large groups of people, a bigger grill might fit your needs better.

You can even incorporate grill add-ons in your outdoor kitchen design, such as:

• A vent hood to keep smoke at bay
• Side burners that allow you to cook using multiple temperatures
• A deep fryer for crispy, delicious fries, fish, and more
• Warming drawers to keep your food hot until you’re ready to serve it
• A griddle for your bacon, eggs, and other favorites
• A pizza oven that doubles as a standard oven

As for appliances, it all comes down to your personal preferences. A small fridge keeps food and drinks at hand, saving you from multiple trips inside. A working sink or dishwasher makes cleaning up a breeze. 

Pick Your Cabinets

Cabinets are a critical component of your outdoor kitchen design. They help define the shape and style of the space. When choosing outdoor kitchen cabinets, you have two options: custom or premade. Both have their benefits, but investing in custom cabinets will give you better quality and the exact look you want — both of which are vital to your home’s style and value.

Whatever type of cabinets you choose, make sure they are durable and rated for outdoor use. Storage is another important factor. Outdoor kitchens need space for the usual supplies — grilling tools, spices, utensils, tableware — and items like propane tanks and charcoal.

Choose a Countertop

Countertops are just important outdoors as they are indoors. In addition to acting as a workspace, outdoor countertops are exposed to the elements 24/7. So, it goes without saying that you want something that looks great and holds up long-term. The material you choose will likely depend on your budget, style, and needs. Consider tile, wood, metal, or concrete countertops for durable yet affordable options. If you prefer a more high-end look, natural stone is the way to go. 

Add Electrical & Plumbing

Next up, give some thought to your electrical and plumbing needs. Install task and ambient lighting in the outdoor kitchen space so you can enjoy using it well into the evenings. Add outdoor rated outlets around the grill area or inside cabinets for integrated appliances and any other electronics. Plumbing and drainage will also need to be installed for sinks and some appliances.

Add Weather Protection

Minnesota summers are beautiful, but the Midwest is no stranger to rapidly changing weather. Covering part or all of your outdoor kitchen means you can enjoy it through the seasons. A pavilion or pergola are great options because they give you that open, airy feel while providing some protection from the sun and rain. Or, if you prefer to keep it simple — and budget-friendly — a patio umbrella will do the trick!

Photo by Nature’s Touch via Houzz

Minnesota’s Home Remodeling Expert

Thinking an outdoor kitchen is the right addition to your Minnesota home? You can count on Excel Builders’ premium design-build services to get the job done! Give our team a call at (612) 306-4064 or email trent@excelbuildersmn.com to get started.

Excel Builders proudly serves areas in the Greater Chanhassen and Twin Cities West Metro, including Minneapolis, Edina, Carver, Plymouth, Minnetonka, Chaska, Excelsior, Eden Prairie, Wayzata, Shorewood, and nearby.

The post 7 Outdoor Kitchen Design Tips appeared first on Excel Builders.

The Realities of Change Orders on Your Home Remodeling Project

Planning to remodel your home? There’s plenty to learn before starting the process, including making sure you understand change orders and how they can impact your remodel. The good news? This article will teach you everything you need to know about the realities of change orders. Get the details below!

What is a Change Order?

“Change order” is an industry term that refers to any alterations that change the scope of work during a home remodeling project. Change orders can be requested by the contractor, designer, or homeowner and typically occur for one of two reasons:

1. Unforeseen obstacles occur, such as delayed deliveries or problems with the home’s plumbing, electrical, or framing.
2. The homeowner makes a request for aesthetic changes to the project.

When a change order is requested, both the client and contractor must sign off on it before the change can be made. The contractor will usually draft a “change order proposal” outlining the changes in the project scope and its financial impact. Once the written change order has been approved, the project can move forward.

How Change Orders Impact Your Remodel

Home remodeling is dynamic and complex; sometimes, change orders are inevitable. While they’re not the end of the world, change orders can significantly impact your home remodeling project. Whether unplanned or intentional, making changes to the project affects construction timelines, the completed design, and the overall cost.

Construction Timeline

Depending on the complexity and scope, change orders may delay the completion date for your project — and not just because of the labor involved. You might deal with additional material shortages and delays, especially with today’s supply chain issues.

Project Design

While a design change may seem small, it can have a bigger effect than you think. For example, adding a window where there previously was none may mean altering other areas of the design. Likewise, deciding to remove a wall at the last minute might require relocating electrical wiring, plumbing, or ducts.

Project Costs

Change orders can result in additional expenses that increase the total cost of the project. Making changes to the design, whether it’s altering the layout or swapping out materials, requires the designer, contractor, and other team members to spend more time on the project. So, you’ll end up paying more for labor and whatever materials are needed to accommodate the change.

How to Reduce the Impact of Change Orders

When it comes to preventing change orders from derailing your remodel, proper planning is key — and it all starts with selecting the right home remodeling contractor. An experienced, reputable design-build contractor understands how valuable design and planning are to a successful remodel.

Good communication is also essential during a remodeling project. Ideally, your contractor will not only facilitate but encourage transparent communication throughout each phase. Communicating effectively about expectations, project goals, design, and other aspects of the project ensures everyone is on the same page.

Other ways to reduce the impact of change orders include:

• Asking questions during various phases of the remodeling process
• Reading the remodeling proposal and contract carefully
• Comparing the final design concept to your list of needs and wants
• Verifying you understand the construction and change order process, which will keep things moving at a steady pace
• Being detailed and clear about the change you’d like to make
• Including extra funds in your home remodeling budget to offset costs related to potential change orders

Premium Design-Build Services in Minneapolis, MN & Nearby

As a leading design-build company in the Greater Chanhassen and Twin Cities area, Excel Builders strives to make the remodeling experience run as smoothly as possible. We’ve fine-tuned our process to keep change orders to a minimum, providing:

• One-on-one design help with an in-house interior designer
• A detailed project proposal outlining the scope of work
• 3D renderings to help clients envision the completed project

Contact us today to learn more about our design-build services, which include kitchen remodeling, bathroom renovations, basement finishing, and more. We can even design and build custom cabinetry, millwork, and furniture through our in-house custom cabinet shop! Give us a call at (612) 306-4064 or send an email to trent@excelbuildersmn.com to get started.

Excel Builders proudly serves Minnesota homeowners in Chaska, Carver, Excelsior, Minneapolis, Chanhassen, Plymouth, Edina, Eden Prairie, Minnetonka, Shorewood, and nearby.

The post The Realities of Change Orders on Your Home Remodeling Project appeared first on Excel Builders.

What to Do Before Hiring a Home Remodeling Contractor

When it comes to remodeling your Minnesota home, proper planning is essential. While it might be tempting to jump right in and start looking for a home remodeling contractor, taking time to plan on your end will set your project up for success.

Keep reading to learn about the five things you should do before hiring a home remodeling contractor!

Determine Your Remodeling Budget

One of the most important parts of any remodel is having — and sticking to — a budget. Your remodeling budget guides a lot of the decisions you’ll make throughout the renovation process, including where to save or splurge. But you have to make it realistic.

Before hiring a contractor, do some research on the average costs associated with the type of remodel you hope to complete. If there are certain products or materials you know you want, see how they fit into your budget. Your budget should also include funds for any unexpected costs and incidentals, such as eating out during a kitchen renovation.

Define Your Project Goals

A successful remodel is about more than making your home look pretty! Ideally, it will improve the flow, function, and value of your home. That’s why it’s a good idea to clearly define your goals and what you hope to achieve. Part of that process is determining what your needs and wants are for the project.

• What are the can’t-live-without features that will make your remodeling project successful? (Needs)
• What features aren’t necessary but would be icing on the cake? (Wants)

Understanding why you want to remodel will help you clearly communicate your project goals when hiring a home remodeling contractor.

Research the Remodeling Process

HGTV and home remodeling shows give homeowners unrealistic expectations about home remodeling. They tend to gloss over the important details, including the time and amount of work that goes into a renovation. You can avoid a lot of unnecessary frustration and disappointment by getting acquainted with the remodeling process before hiring a home remodeling contractor. Doing some research will help you know what to expect in terms of budgeting, design planning, and project timelines.

Check out our FAQs article for insight into the typical remodeling process.

Consult Your Calendar

As you start planning your remodeling project, consider any big holidays or events you have coming up. Major renovations can take months to complete — and that’s without unforeseen delays. Nobody wants their home to be a disaster zone when an important event rolls around.

Pull out your calendar and work backward from your target completion date, and be sure to include a few extra weeks of wiggle room in your planning. When you meet with remodeling contractors, be upfront about your plans. If the timeline doesn’t fit their schedule or seems a little tight, you may want to wait to start the remodel.

Consider Your Storage Options

Preparing for a remodel means clearing out furniture and other items from the spaces where the renovation will occur. But before that can happen, you have to figure out the best place to temporarily house your belongings.

Do you have space in the garage or another room of your home? Could a friend or family member spare some storage space? Will you need to rent a storage unit? If it’s the latter, be sure to plan accordingly! That doesn’t just mean packing up and moving items before the project starts. It also means working the storage and moving costs into your remodeling budget.

Greater Chanhassen’s Leading Remodeling Contractor

Taking the time to prep will make hiring a remodeling contractor that much easier. When you’re ready to get the ball rolling, Excel Builders is here to help. We offer premium design-build services and can design and execute remodeling projects of all types, including kitchen renovations, bathroom remodels, and basement finishing. We even offer custom cabinetry, millwork, and furniture through our in-house custom cabinet shop!

To get started, give the Excel Builders team a call at (612) 306-4064 or email trent@excelbuildersmn.com. We proudly serve Minnesota homeowners throughout Greater Chanhassen and the Twin Cities West Metro, including Minneapolis, Plymouth, Edina, Carver, Chaska, Excelsior, Eden Prairie, Minnetonka, Shorewood, and the surrounding area.

The post What to Do Before Hiring a Home Remodeling Contractor appeared first on Excel Builders.

What Are the Checks & Balances of Working With a Remodeling Contractor?

Have you ever wondered how remodeling contractors keep their projects running smoothly and deliver a final design that meets expectations? The answer is relatively simple: they incorporate checks and balances along the way. This ensures you, as the client, and the remodeling contractor are on the same page and things are progressing as they should.

Learn more about the checks and balances of working with a remodeling contractor below.

Project Planning

Planning is essential to a well-executed remodeling project. A detailed project planning process offers plenty of checks and balances, keeping the project on point and guaranteeing a good outcome.

During the project planning stage, the remodeling contractor will:

• Help you identify your project goals, including your “needs and wants”
• Create a realistic budget for the remodel based on your unique goals
• Help you envision the final design with project renderings
• Provide a detailed design proposal outlining the project scope
• Recap contractor and homeowner responsibilities
• Discuss how we’ll communicate throughout the remodel
• Determine a remodeling timeline

Learn about Excel Builders’ process here.

Remodeling Permits

Your home remodeling project may require permits, depending on its scope. This is especially true in remodels with extensive structural changes and additions to the home. In most cases, the remodeling contractor handles all the permitting. They’ll typically add the cost to the remodeling contract and obtain the necessary permits themselves. If you’re not sure what’s needed, be sure to ask the contractor to explain what permits are required and who will obtain them.

While renovation permits can take time to acquire, the peace of mind and protection they offer are 100% worth it. They require the remodel to be inspected at various stages, confirming things are up to code and installed correctly. Remodeling with a permit also protects — and can even boost — your home value.

Selections

Choosing design elements such as flooring, countertops, and cabinetry is one of the most exciting parts of any remodeling project. That said, it can also be pretty overwhelming. Design-build companies like Excel Builders and some home remodeling contractors offer interior design services, which can make the process easier.

If design services are built into the contract, the remodeling contractor will include allowances in their design proposal. These allowances are estimated costs for various selections, giving you and the designer a baseline when choosing finishes.

As you begin the selections process, you can count on the interior designer to offer design guidance. They’ll also collaborate with the remodeling contractor to confirm measurements and how much material or product to order.

Completed Design

The final checks and balances start before the project is completed. As the remodeling contractor gets ready to finish the remodel, they’ll put together a “punch list.” This list includes details that need to be done so the remodel is completed on time and on budget, such as:

• Painting touch-ups on walls
• Confirming appliances and other items are installed correctly and working properly
• Scheduling final building inspections and obtaining certificates
• Disposing of trash and materials from the demo phase
• Dusting and cleaning the remodeled space

After the items on the punch list are knocked out, you’ll do a final walk-through with the contractor. This gives you a chance to ask questions or point out anything that was overlooked before signing off on the remodel.

What If Something Goes Wrong During the Remodel?

Sometimes delays and unexpected problems occur without warning — that’s just the nature of remodeling. Although a remodeling contractor can’t control every single aspect, they’ll do their best to address problems as quickly as possible.

At Excel Builders, our primary goal is for you to love your newly remodeled home. We believe good communication is essential to preventing and dealing with home remodeling mistakes. That’s why we strive to be as open and transparent as possible throughout the project.

You can count on our team to reach out as soon as we become aware of any problems, and we encourage our clients to do the same. Whether you want to change the design or are unhappy with our workmanship, we’ll do what it takes to resolve the problem quickly and efficiently.

Greater Chanhassen’s Leading Remodeling Contractor

Ready to start planning your remodel? Call the Excel Builders team at (612) 306-4064 or email trent@excelbuildersmn.com. We proudly serve Minnesota homeowners throughout Greater Chanhassen and the Twin Cities West Metro, including Minneapolis, Plymouth, Edina, Carver, Chaska, Excelsior, Eden Prairie, Minnetonka, Shorewood, and the surrounding area.

The post What Are the Checks & Balances of Working With a Remodeling Contractor? appeared first on Excel Builders.

What to Expect When Working with a Design-Build Contractor

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to work with a design-build company? If so, you’re in the right place! This article will cover what a design-build company is, the benefits it offers, and what to expect when working with a design-build contractor.

But before we get into the nitty-gritty details, let’s first clarify what a design-build company is and how it compares to a traditional remodeling company.

What is a Design-Build Contractor?

While every company has its own nuances, the two main differences between a design-build contractor and a remodeling contractor are their company structure and service offerings. Remodeling contractors tend to have a small team of carpenters and will typically hire subcontractors to complete other elements of the remodel. Some remodelers may provide design help, but in many cases, the client has to hire a separate architect or interior designer.

A design-build company offers clients a more streamlined approach to home remodeling. Most design-build teams include a contractor, project manager, interior designer, architect, and experienced carpenters working collaboratively under one roof. Having a well-rounded team allows the company to handle both the design and execution of the project.

The Design-Build Remodeling Process

There are many benefits to working with a design-build company. The collaborative nature means everyone has a unified vision, communication is clearer, and things move faster. A design-build company also places a higher value on design, which means more time and consideration is spent developing the remodeling plan.

All of these things come together to create a better, more organized, and streamlined remodeling experience. While the design-build remodeling process varies from one company to the next, there are four distinct components that set Excel Builders’ process apart from other remodeling companies.

One-On-One Design Help

Built-in interior design services are a major perk of working with a design-build company. As part of the design-build company, the designer is intimately familiar with the project, from your budget and project goals to your unique lifestyle needs and style preferences. At Excel Builders, our clients work one-on-one with our interior designer, Christine. She helps each client identify their needs and wants, choose design selections, visualize their project with renderings, and communicate the design details to our carpenters and craftsmen.

Layout Planning

When it comes to a well-designed remodel, the layout is everything. But it’s not just about looks! A good layout accounts for function and flow, ensuring your remodeled space performs just as great as it looks. Excel Builders makes layout planning easy. When developing a layout, we consider the footprint of the space, how elements within it are used, and the placement of hidden components like electrical, plumbing, and vents.

Project Renderings

Remodeling your home is an exciting process, but it requires a pretty high level of trust. It isn’t like buying a previously lived-in home; there’s nothing to see beforehand. But that doesn’t mean you have to go in blind and hope for the best.

Excel Builders helps clients visualize their completed remodel with detailed design renderings. We take your goals, ideas, and style preferences and create a design concept that gives you a snapshot of how the completed project will look. You have the final say on the design, and we’ll perfect it until it matches your vision.

Detailed Design Proposals

Every project at Excel Builders includes a design proposal that outlines important details about the remodel before construction starts. The design proposal is essential to ensuring everyone is on the same page regarding the project scope, vision, and budget. It will have information about what is and isn’t included in the project, who is responsible for what, and a breakdown of costs and allowances.

Minnesota’s Trusted Design-Build Contractor

Excel Builders provides a superior design and build experience in the Twin Cities area. We specialize in kitchen remodeling, bathroom renovations, basement finishing, and more. We can even design and build custom cabinets, millwork, and furniture for your project through our in-house custom cabinet shop!

When you’re ready to start planning your remodel, call us at (612) 306-4064 or reach out to trent@excelbuildersmn.com. Excel Builders proudly serves Minnesota homeowners throughout Greater Chanhassen and the Twin Cities West Metro, including Minneapolis, Plymouth, Edina, Carver, Chaska, Excelsior, Eden Prairie, Minnetonka, Shorewood, and the surrounding area.

The post What to Expect When Working with a Design-Build Contractor appeared first on Excel Builders.