Cleary Company: Design Build Remodel

Category: Design-Build

  • Basement Remodel ROI

    Basement Remodel ROI

    People choose to remodel their homes for a variety of reasons and the Team at The Cleary Company Remodel-Design-Build has over 28 years of experience improving the lives of their clients in Columbus, Ohio.

    Finishing your basement can add a significant amount of usable living space to your home as well as increase its value. According to the 2022 Remodeling Impact Report from The National Association of Realtors® (NAR) Research Group and the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) finishing your basement into additional living space will net you a cost recovery of up to 86%! This report is filled with valuable information with regards to everything remodeling.

    So, let’s dive in! What does the report tell us about a basement remodel?

    Americans spent $420 billion in 2020 on remodeling their homes according to a study from the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University. While most consumers responded they would have remodeled regardless of the pandemic, 86 percent of consumers report remodeling one area of their home made them want to then remodel other areas of their home.

    Let’s focus on what else the report says about completing basement remodels! NAR utilizes a Joy score for each project based on happiness. We love this because we know that as remodelers, we provide a good deal of joy to our clients when they see their finished projects.

    Adding new living space to a home with a basement remodel has a cost recovery value of 86%. “REALTORS® provided an estimate of the likely dollar value each project would add to the house at resale. In comparing that dollar value to the estimated cost of each project provided by NARI members, a Recovered Project Cost percentage was calculated.”

    NARI Remodelers placed the cost estimate of a basement remodel at $57,500 (of course this is nationwide). Realtors® estimated a cost recovery is $49,250, so 86% is the percent of value recovered from the project on average.

    The most interesting response we found is that regardless of the pandemic, 74% of those surveyed would have remodeled their basement.

    To learn more, read the entire report here.

    Functionality and Livability / #ImprovingYourHomeLife

    When collaborating with our clients we focus on their needs for increased functionality and livability. Check out these before and after photos and you’ll see what we mean. We are confident we increased the functionality and livability for these clients!

    Before
    New Wine Cellar
    Before
    New Wet Bar
    Wine Cellar & Custom Storage
    New Laundry Room
    New Entertainment Space
    Before
    Before
    Before
    Before
    New Fireplace & Cabinetry

    Our Design-Build Team has added value to many of our client’s basements with numerous new features including:

    • fireplaces
    • home offices
    • home gyms
    • playrooms for kids
    • game rooms & bars for adults to entertain
    • customized storage
    • and even a few wine cellars

    Want to see more remodeled basements? Visit the Basement Remodeling Playlist on our YouTube channel!

    We know that a basement remodel can be one of the most satisfying spaces you remodel. Gain square footage, space for your family, and the needed additional bedroom, office, bathroom, craft room, or storage. The sky’s the limit!

    Are you ready to remodel your basement? Contact us today to start a conversation!

  • Designing for Accessibility in Your Home Remodel

    Designing for Accessibility in Your Home Remodel

    There are many reasons why you may be ready for a remodel. Do your dated rooms feel old and tired? Does your home function for your current lifestyle? Or maybe you’d like to create a more accessible home to accommodate different life stages and abilities.

    Our Design-Build Team at The Cleary Company in Columbus, Ohio takes our remodeling designs seriously and wants to be sure they are accessible for all. We collaborate with our clients to create a design plan that considers these and other accessibility challenges in their home.

    3 Types of Accessibility Issues to Consider:

    • Visual — Use color to highlight or complement what is already visible but also ensure sufficient contrast. Paint door frames and doors a lighter color than the walls.
    • Motor/Mobility — Choose solid surface floors throughout like wood, tile or vinyl and minimize the number of transitions between materials. Eliminate or reduce the use of rugs or carpets. Wider hallways, doorways and traffic flow for accommodating wheelchairs, walkers, etc.
    • Auditory — Creating a more open concept floor plan allows for unobstructed sight lines for easier communication. The arrangement of the room can also make a significant difference for those who use lipreading or sign language. Circular or horseshoe seating layouts work best.

    Design Features to Consider:

    • Single story living
    • Limited steps inside and outside
    • Wider hallways and entryways
    • Open floor plans
    • Low maintenance exterior and landscape
    • Varying height countertops
    • Easy-to-reach work and storage areas in the kitchen and bathrooms
    • Walk-in or zero-entry showers

    Terminology used for Accessibility in Home Design

    Living in Place or Aging in Place — Both used interchangeably have become more popular as people want to stay in their homes longer. This means the home needs to be safe, healthy, and comfortable for everyone in the household, no matter their age or accessibility. Are there hazards, barriers, or floor plan issues that need to be rectified to create a design that all people can use, especially those with memory, cognitive or physical challenges?

    Universal Design — Sometimes used interchangeably with the previous two terms. This approach to home design is to meet the needs of everyone. Regardless of age, size, ability or accessibility, a design is created, understood, and used by everyone, as much as possible. Read more about Universal Design on our blog.

    An excellent example of such design exists right here in Columbus! This 3,500sf ranch home was built in 2009. It is not only the private residence of Rosemarie Rossetti, Ph.D and her husband, Mark Leder but also a one-of-a-kind national demonstration home called the Universal Design Living Laboratory. Our Team had the privilege of touring this amazing home in 2015. We appreciate our conversations with Rosemarie, whose personal work in Universal Design has been instrumental in educating home industry professionals.

    Universal Design Living Laboratory – 6141 Clark State Road, Columbus, Ohio 43230

    ADA Compliant — This term refers to actual code compliance rules included in the American Disabilities Act Standards for Accessible Design. An ADA-compliant home follows these codes entirely.

    Visit-ability — This one is interesting because it isn’t so much about who lives in the home, but who is visiting. How will they navigate throughout your home if they are wheelchair-bound or have other mobility issues?

    Areas to consider:

    • Entrances and exits of the home
    • Bathroom accessibility
    • Bedroom access for those who can’t use stairs
    • Hallways should be wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters

    Adaptable Design — This realizes an important middle-ground area in the designing of homes, putting it somewhere between full accessibility and a home filled with accessibility challenges. Creating a remodeled home that can easily be adapted to accommodate changing needs can save money over time if it is thought of now.

    Are there products or design elements that can be put in place now, that can be used later? You may not want a walk-in shower now, but will it be needed down the road? Does the structure behind the walls need to allow for grab bars to be added beside a toilet or in a shower? Does the island have an area that is lower, allowing a wheelchair to be rolled up to it?

    NARI UDCP – Universal Design Certified Professional

    The Cleary Company Remodel-Design-Build in Columbus, Ohio is proud to have several Team members who’ve earned accreditation in Universal Design from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry!

    Laura Watson, ASID, UDCP – Design Manager
    Katie Florjancic, UDCP – Designer
    Emily Perebzak, UDCP – Designer
    Shannon Tannehill, UDCP – Design Consultant

    The UDCP program addresses the key concepts of Universal Design as applied to residential remodeling:

    • Conducting client needs assessments
    • Universal design applications used in residential remodeling
    • Construction techniques used to implement universal design to a remodeling project
    • Plumbing and electrical systems unique to universal design
    • Differences between model building codes and ones described in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

    No matter what accessibility, aging challenges or planning for the future you might be doing now — our Design Team is here to collaborate with you to create the vision you need for your home.

    Ready for a Home Remodel?

    Get started today by calling our Client Relations Coordinator @ 614-459-4000 or by visiting our website.

  • Remodel Right – Your Home Deserves It!

    Remodel Right – Your Home Deserves It!

    The Cleary Company Remodel Design Build Columbus OH knows that beginning a home remodeling project might feel overwhelming, but when you work with the right company it should be a TEAM effort! We aim to take the uncertainty out of your home renovation. With our experience and expertise, we can help make any project seem less daunting. Our Design-Build Team shares some home remodeling tips to help guide and prepare you through your next remodel.

    Planning a Design-Build Remodel? So where do you start?

    Do your research

    Drive around your neighborhood and see who’s working in the area. Ask neighbors, family and friends for referrals. Once you have a list of several companies visit their websites, and narrow your list to those you want to contact.

    Hire a professional

    Certifications and memberships in local & national trade organizations show that a remodeler invests in continuing education and earns positive customer references. When hiring a professional, it is most important to find a remodeler you can trust and are comfortable communicating with.

    Visit a job site

    Ask for references and contact them. See what a project in construction looks like. The best remodelers maintain clean & organized work sites and welcome your visit.

    Remember the big picture

    Be honest and upfront with your desires and expectations. A good design-build home remodeling company’s goal is to produce a product that goes beyond the client’s expectations. They can only accomplish this with your input. 

    Lifecycle of a Design-Build Home Remodel

    Development & Design

    Proper planning can help keep your home remodel project on schedule and on budget. The Cleary Company has a thorough Team approach that guides you through each step and decision. It’s a fun, collaborative process!

    First, we identify what it is you want to accomplish.

    • Do you want or need to add more space?
    • Or do you simply want a new floorplan within the existing footprint?

    We will help you decide whether it makes more sense to reuse existing space or build an addition to meet your needs. Let’s explore all your options!

    Second, we can help you establish a realistic remodeling budget by discussing the investment range you’re comfortable committing to. Through our Design Agreement phase, we’ll collaborate with you on the development and design.

    Your Project Developer and Design Consultant can help determine if what you want is in line with the amount of money you want to invest. The goal is to create a functional design that meets your needs and that enhances the look and style of your home.

    Pre-Construction Planning

    After you sign a construction contract with The Cleary Company you’ll need to allow time for your project’s construction documents to be prepared. Our Team will convert the preliminary designs into detailed drawings specific to your local building and zoning code requirements. They will include calculations and specific details necessary to acquire building permits.

    Permit plans typically consist of a site plan, floor plan, foundation plan, elevations, sections, product and material selections, and detailed notes to provide clear communication for a successful project.

    Phases of Construction

    Building your project is typically the longest part and toughest part of your remodel. The visual below is a simplified version of what happens in your home. For a more detailed description of these phases read our Renovation Lifecycle – Construction blog post.

    A fun visual we post on our jobsites!

    Home Stretch

    Although the details of your remodeling project will be unique to you and your home, there will be several phases from demo to completion you can expect; demolition, mechanicals, and inspections followed by a time when the basics, from walls to wiring, are rebuilt or upgraded as needed and then more inspections. The home stretch begins with the installations of cabinets, appliances, etc. and finally paint, hardware, and other finishing touches will be put in place.

    We hope you choose to experience your next remodeling project the way it should be done RIGHT. Contact our Remodel-Design-Build Team today to get started!

  • What to Expect With a Home Remodel?

    What to Expect With a Home Remodel?

    Short answer – Expect the unexpected!

    Did you put off remodeling during the height of the pandemic? Did you recently buy a home that requires some time and attention to make it your own? Were you going to move, but just can’t find a new place to call home?

    Your home has become more than a place to come to after work over the past few years. It’s transformed into the center of most aspects of your life! Serving multiple purposes, such as an office, a school, a safe place to entertain, a gym, and your retreat for self-care. You’ve realized that the community where you live and the home you love is where you want to stay. But it needs to be more than what it is now, for it to function for your family.

    We get it—a remodel of your kitchen, first floor, bathroom, or the whole house, needs to happen sooner rather than later—you want to do it now. At The Cleary Company, Remodel-Design-Build in Columbus, OH, we want nothing more than to start your project as soon as we meet with you. But there is a process and the challenges of our industry right now are creating delays in everyone’s timelines.

    What do you need to know before you call a remodeler?

    The pandemic brought forth many unforeseen issues, many of which, have challenged the construction industry. While we aren’t lacking for clients or new projects, (in fact, we’re busier than ever!) there are many factors right now affecting our schedules. If you have completed a project in the past five to ten years, expect it could now take double the time to complete.

    • Supply chain issues continue to cause delays. Appliances, windows, doors, and other vital construction items are taking longer than normal to ship and arrive. The good news is if you’re willing to select an in-stock item vs a custom item lead times can be significantly shorter.
    • Manufacturing of materials, as well as the distribution of them is taking longer. The semiconductor chip issue does affect some appliances, but beyond that most manufacturing plants are not at worker capacity, and some raw materials still are still in short supply. All of this means products are not being made at the rate they were before coupled with the higher than expected demands. Luckily, we work with some amazing vendors, that are doing everything they can to get us materials.
    • Costs have continued to increase. We have all heard what has happened to lumber prices over the last two years, but other items we need, have risen as well. This means the bottom line for your project has increased. Keep in mind it’s never going to be cheaper than right now. Although some costs may stabilize or even drop slightly, overall most prices will continue at their current rates or even rise further.
    • Labor shortages for skilled trades were an issue before the pandemic and since then the problem has only gotten worse and has started to lengthen the time it takes to complete a project. While we feel blessed to have such an amazing Team and trade partners, we are still hiring, as are most remodeling companies. Check out our open positions here!
    • Utility companies (water, electric, gas) are suffering from the same issues as stated above. This trickles down to us when we need to do work that involves them. This means we could be waiting on them to come out to the site to take care of what is needed for your project.
    • Surging home prices and lack of available inventory has made the decision for many people to just stay in their homes and remodel them, rather than try to purchase a new home.

    Our Team will help you through this process.

    Remodeling your home is important and we understand! Our job isn’t only to complete your project, but for us all to be a part of the same Team. We take what we do seriously and pride ourselves on having a solid, well-respected reputation.

    When you work with The Cleary Company, you can expect:

    • Honesty
    • Transparency—we will let you know what we are dealing with and how it could affect your project
    • Realistic expectations
    • A positive working relationship
    • An open dialogue
    • Timely updates during the construction phase of the project
    • Proactive problem-solving to keep your project moving forward
    • Innovative ideas
    • Your vision comes to life

    How can you create a positive remodel experience?

    • Do your research – be prepared with a vision and a budget
    • Remain flexible and understanding when a problem or issue is discovered
    • Be honest and forthright with our Team
    • Keep realistic expectations for the timeline
    • Be patient

    With all this, we encourage you to start a conversation with our Team now and not wait. The sooner we talk, the sooner you get into the queue and the sooner we can build your project. The entire remodeling industry is in high demand, and we want to get your project ready to go. The phrase — “Together, we can accomplish anything” is the standard we work to achieve. Ready to set up that initial meeting so we can share in your vision for your remodeled home? Contact us here.

  • Should I Remodel or Move?

    Should I Remodel or Move?

    How Renovations are Impacting Real Estate Decisions in Columbus Ohio

    According to a recent article from Roofstock, “Home prices in Columbus continue to skyrocket”. This is great news for those people selling their homes, but the flip side means they have to find someplace else to live and in Columbus, that is an issue as inventory is tight.

    Home buying is more challenging these days due to historically low inventory and a mortgage market that is overwhelmed with a full line of applications. In addition, supply chain disruptions, labor shortages, and demand for new homes have builders scrambling to keep up with the demand. New construction has lagged behind demand for several years now and the supply chain issues created by the pandemic have only exacerbated the problem.

    The Columbus, OH home sales market has been a seller’s market, with homes values soaring, bidding wars, and low inventory. These factors are coupled with a shortage of new home builds, as new research from Realtor.com states, “The U.S. is short 5.24 million homes, an increase of 1.4 million from the 2019 gap of 3.84 million” as reported in this article from CNBC earlier this fall. 

    To this end, we are seeing more and more people stay in their homes and choose to renovate. Many remodelers in Columbus, OH (The Cleary Company included), are booked 9-12 months out. What does this tell us? People are choosing to renovate and expand or improve their homes instead of moving. But why is this the case in addition to the housing sales issues?

    Renovate Instead of Relocate

    According to a 2018 Zillow Housing Aspirations Report, “76% of Americans would rather renovate than use their savings for a down payment.” While this information is from 2018, as a premier remodeling company, we know this still rings true in 2021. If you’ve lived in your home long enough to qualify for a home equity loan or line of credit, have been saving money, or can refinance and create additional equity with a re-appraisal, renovating might be a better option.

    The cost of selling your home and buying a new home involves realtor costs and commissions, both minor and major repairs to the home you own and the home you will buy (especially if it isn’t a new build), title insurance, seller costs, home appraisal, moving costs, closing costs, change in property taxes, and possible capital gains taxes if your home has appreciated more than $250,000 from the original purchase price.

    Pros of Remodeling Your Current Home

    Even though, right now, the time it takes to renovate your home might be longer than normal, there are still many pros to remodeling.

    • No need to move to a different neighborhood. The emotional investment you have created in your neighborhood with your friends, schools and amenities isn’t in jeopardy by a move.
    • Change your home to fit your needs. Do you need a home office, additional space, a new kitchen, bathroom, or outdoor living?
    • Choose the materials you want for your home, not what a builder may choose, or someone selling their home chose.
    • Renovating a room or several rooms is less costly than buying a new home just to get a home office or extra bedroom. We can take the footprint of your home and make it work for you.
    • You’ll continue to add equity/ROI to your home, provided you don’t create the most expensive home on the block when renovating.
    • You don’t have to move, though a whole house remodel might mean you will want to move out for a while. We’ve had clients do both!
    • It may be more cost-effective for you than buying a new home that requires changes as well.

    While the choice to remodel or move is very personal and the final decision can be difficult if remodeling is the decision you make, we are here to help. We would be happy to discuss possible options with you. Our Team can help you decide if renovating your home will work for you and your needs.

    Read more about the remodeling boom in Central Ohio on our blog. Are you ready to remodel your home? Contact us today to get started!

  • Understanding Your Remodeling Contract

    Understanding Your Remodeling Contract

    What is an escalation clause?

    No one likes to have a price change during their remodeling project. The Design-Build Team at The Cleary Company strives to be transparent with you throughout the estimating and development process. Our goal is to Educate, Collaborate & Connect with you and your family from beginning to end of your project. We feel it is our responsibility to review every part of your contract and to ensure you understand the wording.

    There is one clause that tends to give some of our clients a bit of hesitation and takes time for us to explain, in more detail, what it is and why it is in there. The Escalation Clause. It is taken, in part, from the Ohio Revised Code. Read more detailed information about this section of the code here.

    The Escalation clause, as written in our contract:

    Some of the materials and portions of the Work priced herein are based on bids received from materialmen and subcontractors that will be used on this project, and understanding that such bids are typically only good for 30 days and understanding that their services may be requested after this 30-day, period, there is the possibility that the costs for these materials and services may increase for reasons beyond the Remodeler’s control.  Owner acknowledges this risk and agrees to be responsible for any increases, subject, however, to the notice requirements set forth in Section C(1) below dealing with extra or excess costs.

    Section C – Excess Costs and Written Change Order Procedure.

    1. As required under Ohio Revised Code Section 4722.02(B)(2), Remodeler is providing Owner with the following notice of the procedures for excess costs and change orders:

    IF AT ANY TIME A HOME CONSTRUCTION SERVICE REQUIRES EXTRA COSTS ABOVE THE COSTS SPECIFIED OR ESTIMATED IN THIS CONTRACT THAT WERE REASONABLY UNFORESEEN, BUT NECESSARY, AND THE TOTAL OF ALL EXTRA COSTS TO DATE EXCEEDS $5,000.00, OVER THE COURSE OF THIS ENTIRE CONTRACT, OWNER (YOU) HAS THE RIGHT TO AN ESTIMATE OF THOSE EXCESS COSTS BEFORE THE REMODELER BEGINS WORK RELATED TO THOSE COSTS. SUCH ESTIMATES SHALL BE IN WRITING AND GOVERNED BY THE PROCEDURE OUTLINED IN THIS SECTION. HOWEVER, OWNER IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT IN THE EVENT OWNER FAILS TO APPROVE SUCH EXCESS COST(S), THE COMPLETION OF WORK MAY NOT BE POSSIBLE AND OWNER MAY BE CHARGED FOR THE COSTS INCURRED BY REMODELER FOR ANY DISASSEMBLY, REASSEMBLY, OR PARTIALLY COMPLETED WORK DIRECTLY RELATED TO THE ACTUAL LABOR OR MATERIALS INVOLVED.

    What does this mean for you?

    The escalation clause explains that it is a possibility that some of the pricing could change during your project. If there is a dramatic increase in a product required for your project, that cost increase is passed on to you, the client. In this situation, the overall cost of the project will then increase.

    This is a common clause in remodeling contracts. It’s there, in part, to protect companies from unexpected increases in materials and/or labor costs. As we have seen in the last 18+ months, supply chain issues, workforce shortages, material costs and other variables, have all impacted what we can buy and when it is available. It is never our intention to randomly increase prices. When a situation does occur that impacts costs, we will communicate with you and obtain your approval.

    Another reason this clause exists is to protect our company. For example, when a client selects more expensive fixtures or finishes after the budget is finalized or requests a costly change order. And in some rare cases, concealed structural conditions found during demo that will change the budget.

    Our Team strives to conduct open communication, create a budget that works for you, and brings your vision to life. We don’t want there to be surprises along the way, but we also know, with our 27+ years of remodeling experience, that there can be issues with any project.

    Find out more about what to expect during your home remodel in this blog. Interested in the phases of a Renovation Lifecycle? Click here.

    #ImprovingYourHome Life – Contact us to get started!

  • What to Expect During Your Home Remodel

    What to Expect During Your Home Remodel

    Between the large expense and the excitement of anticipating your finished home remodel project, it’s hard not to feel a little nervous. If you’ve never remodeled before you may be a little apprehensive. At The Cleary Company, we want to help you know what to expect for the weeks or months we will be in your home. Hopefully, by knowing what to expect you’ll be prepared for each stage of the process.

    Remodeling Can be an Emotional Roller Coaster

    Home Remodel
    An example of our fun emoji chart that is posted on each jobsite!

    MOMENTS OF JOY

    It may be as simple as seeing that old ugly vinyl floor in your bathroom go into the dumpster. While others may seem to be giddy at the sight of drywall being hung or the carefully selected custom tile backsplash being installed. Whatever gets you excited about your project know that we share your joy and excitement. We want your remodeling experience to be the best it can be.

    REMODELING FATIGUE

    Although mostly short-lived, every client has a point in their project when they just want it to be done! It may be because you’re tired of selections or answering so many questions or you may just want to have all the people out of your house. Whatever the reason please know that we have years of experience dealing with homeowners and we know you just want to move back into your newly remodeled space.

    So Hang in There!

    The 4 D’s to Expect During Your Home Remodel

    DECISIONS

    The client’s ability to make decisions is one of the biggest factors that drive the Development schedule. You may reach the point of decision fatigue but know that your Development Team is with you every step of the way. Your Designer and Design Consultant will offer their assistance and guidance through the seemingly overwhelming number of choices you will need to make. Have no fear though, making the design choices is one of the most enjoyable parts of the process.  

    DUST

    Everything we do creates dust! We implement multiple strategies to minimize the amount of dust in your home, however, a fine layer of dust will gather in parts of your home far from the construction. The first line of defense is temporary walls made with plastic sheeting that are installed & secured around the area being remodeled. During certain phases of your project, we may use one of several different methods of air filtration and dust isolation. We will inspect your furnace air filter regularly and replace it as needed at the conclusion of the project.

    DRAWS

    Your project’s draw schedule will be reviewed at the Contract presentation meeting. Using a percent of completion method for developing the payment schedule keeps it simple. Divide the anticipated number of workdays by the number of payments. Draw payments will be due at that interval. Usually 25%, 50%, 75%, and Substantial Completion.  

    DELAYS

    Like death and taxes, project delays are almost a foregone conclusion. But one thing your Project Manager will work hard to do is when one thing gets delayed, move something else into its place and move ahead the best they can. We seldom have simple scheduling delays derail a project. Everyone on the Production team strives to find solutions to scheduling delays in order to keep on track.

    Recent product delays due to the impacts by COVID-19, such as appliances, are outside the control of everyone and your Production and Development Team will work to find alternatives for selections that are more readily available when possible. Communication is the key here, you will know what your team knows. Updates are passed along as soon as they are known to us.

    You’ll Also Want to Prepare for These 3 Realities of Remodeling

    NOISE

    There will be times when you will not want to be in your home. Whining saws, buzzing sanders, thumping nail guns followed by bellowing compressors will leave you little peace and quiet during our working hours. We encourage you to communicate, before the project begins, your needs for quiet time. This will help us try to coordinate around your needs and keep your project’s schedule on track.

    CHANGE ORDERS

    The aim of our Design-Build approach is to produce a comprehensive, detailed scope of work and final price when you sign a contract. Sometimes things change. While it is ideal to avoid them, when a Change Order becomes necessary your Production and Development team will collaborate with you to get things worked out. Change Orders are an interruption in the flow of a project, so speak with your Project Manager as soon as you think you may want a change!

    THE UNEXPECTED

    Our Design/Build remodeling process prepares you and us for the scope of work required on your project. However, there are situations where no amount of investigation will prepare a contractor or homeowner for the potential of concealed conditions that can arise on just about any job site. It could be incorrect wiring, critters nesting in the attic, framing that is not code compliant or unsafe plumbing. With our years of experience, we will work with our Trade Partners to make onsite decisions that will keep your project running on schedule. There will be surprises during your project but know we have been here before and we will work together to find solutions.

    Time To Enjoy Your Newly Remodeled Home! 

    PROJECT CLOSEOUT

    As the completion of your home remodel approaches, your Production Team will create and complete the punch list of items to wrap up. At Substantial Completion, your Project Manager will schedule a time to review the project with you and get your signature on our Field Closeout forms. Once that happens the paperwork triggers a few things at the office. Once the team completes the Office CloseOut your final invoice is created and posted on BuilderTREND for your review and payment.

    While a home remodeling project might seem like an inconvenience for your family and occasionally feels like it will never end, before you know it, you are enjoying your renovated spaces and wondering why you waited so long to renovate your home. Our goal is to ensure satisfied clients and raving fans! Are you ready to jump in with both feet and remodel your home? Contact us today!

  • Renovation Lifecycle – Construction

    Renovation Lifecycle – Construction

    Making the decision to hire a remodeler into your home is exciting and rewarding! It can also feel overwhelming but with our Design-Build Team at The Cleary Company in Columbus OH as your remodeler, you will feel at ease through the entire renovation lifecycle. Our process ensures organization, timeliness, communication, and a high level of quality craftsmanship. Here is what you can expect once construction begins on an average-sized Design-Build home remodeling project.

    Jobsite Pre-Construction Meeting (1-2 hours) – Meet the Project Manager and Lead Carpenter assigned to your project.

    • Review project’s schedule
    • Discuss your family’s weekday routines
    • Daily access to home
    • Communication – How best to reach you?
    • Meetings – How often do you want updates?
    • Placement of dumpster and/or port-a-john
    • Parking

    After this meeting, you can start to clear out the areas in your home where we’ll be working. Next up construction begins!

    Phases of Construction in the Renovation Lifecycle

    Demolition (1 week) – Our Production Team takes special care to protect your home during the demo phase. Visqueen plastic walls are installed to minimize dust & dirt from other areas of the home. We also carefully remove all appliances, cabinets, fixtures etc. that can be reused and donate them on behalf of our clients to Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore. The donation keeps items out of the landfill and gives our clients a receipt for their taxes. We also save any metal for recycling.

    Foundation & Framing (1-2 weeks) – Details matter and a good remodel starts with a solid foundation and proper structure. Our Production Team uses only the highest quality construction materials and industry best practices.

    Mechanicals & Insulation (2-3 weeks) – It’s the stuff you can’t see when the project is complete. It’s important to know what’s behind your walls and under your floors. Our Production Team documents your project by taking photos and entering job logs into BuilderTrend. This is not only for future reference but so you can be informed of your project’s progress even when you’re not home.

    Drywall (2 weeks) – It’s the messiest phase! This is probably the most frustrating stage of construction for most homeowners. In addition to using Visqueen & ZipWalls to protect the areas of your home, our Production Team takes additional precautions to minimize construction dust. Our Lead Carpenters regularly check your furnace air filters and will replace or clean them if needed.

    Almost there You’re in the Home Stretch!

    Cabinets & Trim (2 weeks) – Since a majority of the cabinets we purchase are custom designed for your project, our experienced carpenters are able to minimize or even in most cases eliminate filler strips that maximize your storage space. Once your cabinets are installed our fabricators can measure and template for your countertops.

    Floors (2 weeks) – Before any new flooring is installed our Production Team assures proper “floor prep”. This is the first and most important step of any new floor installation. Whether you choose new or refinished hardwood, carpet, tile, carpet, etc. we will ensure what’s underneath follows best practices for proper installation.

    Paint (1 week) – Painting can easily eat up almost any budget and is usually the first thing clients want to cut when trying to save money. However, in our experience, this can be a mistake, since most homeowners do not realize all the steps needed for a flawless paint job. The Cleary Company hires only the best painters in the business ensuring our clients have a finished product worthy of our expert design and construction.

    Wall Tile (2-5 days) – All good installations require the proper preparations and underlayment for backsplashes, showers, wainscotting, and more. And, as the saying goes, measure twice and cut once. Putting in the time to plan and prepare each layout before installation can save time and money as well as avoid any product shortages.

    Doors, Windows & Siding (1 week) – Proper installation ensures full energy efficiency and guarantees all warranties are valid.

    Final Cleaning (1 day) – After substantial completion of your project, your Project Manager will schedule a professional thorough cleaning of the remodeled and/or newly constructed spaces.

    Punch List (2-5 days) – The end of the Renovation Lifecycle is finally in sight! Our Production Team goes over every detail of your job and walks through the project with you to ensure a complete job as specified in the contract scope and any additional change orders. Our goal is to ensure satisfied clients and raving fans!

    Time to Enjoy!

    While a home remodeling project might seem like an inconvenience for your family and occasionally feels like it will never end, before you know it, you are enjoying your renovated spaces and wondering why you waited so long to renovate your home. Our goal is to provide you with the best information, the most positive experience, and the outcome you expected. We take remodeling seriously and want to give you the very best, from the best! Are you ready to jump in with both feet and remodel your home?

  • Do All Remodeling Projects Need Building Permits?

    Do All Remodeling Projects Need Building Permits?

    Recent activity in the central Ohio real estate market tells us that more and more families are planning to remain in their homes. Most of those homeowners are planning a remodel. Perhaps you are planning for a new bathroom, kitchen update, addition or creating a new footprint for your home? As you begin your collaboration with The Cleary Company Remodel Design Build, inevitably the discussion veers to building permits. Why are they important to you and how might they impact the time and cost of your remodel?

    From a recent National Association of the Remodeling Industry article: “What are Building Permits? Building codes are established by cities and other municipalities to govern the safety and construction standards of all structures, including residences. Every municipality’s codes are different, but they may cover a variety of different facets of a home, including electrical, plumbing and mechanical components, as well as windows, doors, roofing, siding and decks.

    Building permits, then, are intended to ensure work on a structure meets those standards. In residential construction, they usually apply to structural changes. For example, home additions or significant changes to the living areas of a home that officially adds to the home’s livable square footage. As the homeowner, building permits offer a way to hold your remodeler accountable for the work they performed.

    Why are building permits important?

    A well-executed project starts with a complete set of plans. Normally, these plans need to be submitted to ensure they comply with all existing codes. During the construction phase, inspections are conducted to verify the completed work aligns with the approved plans. Ohio has adopted the 2018 IRC (International Residential Code) as our guide. Each municipality will focus on their interpretation of the code, so working with a remodeler that has a relationship with your city’s building department’s staff and understands their expectations is very helpful in expediting inspections.

    Impact on time and cost

    Projects will need a permit if certain items are added, moved, significantly altered or if the new design will change the structure of the space. Once we have submitted for a permit, the waiting game begins on the approval process. We are usually able to build this time into the project mobilization timeline, however that may not always be the case. There are situations where the project cannot start because we are waiting on the permit to be issued. The complexity of designs and the size of projects can have an impact on the amount of time a permit submission spends with the plans examiner. Once the project plans have been approved and the permit issued, the dust can start to fly! Of course, when no permits are needed, the time from signed Construction Contract to Project Launch is streamlined and faster. 

    All building permits carry a fee, which may be based on the estimated value of your remodeling project or on the home’s square footage. At The Cleary Company, we always include these costs in your project’s budget.

    The many variables of building permits

    While the residential building permitting process will add time and money to your remodel, it is important to not overlook this step in the process. The permits that are required in one city, may not be needed in another one. Permits protect both the homeowner and the remodeler. Be sure to always ask questions to understand why your project might not need a permit. Bottom line is – ask questions, do your research, and make an informed decision before choosing a remodeler.

    As your Columbus, Ohio remodeling company, you can place your trust in The Cleary Company when beginning a remodeling project. Safety and our obligation to provide you the best remodel for your money are the hallmarks of our success. We do not cut corners and nothing in our process will jeopardize the integrity of our work.

    Are you ready to get started? What can we remodel for you? Contact our Team today!

  • Managing Your Design-Build Home Remodel

    Managing Your Design-Build Home Remodel

    Offsite, On Mind. Do you ever wonder how much work is done offsite during a home remodeling project? You may be curious what is going on behind the scenes. Or, you might wonder what your contractor is actually doing when not physically on the job site. At The Cleary Company, although our Team may not be working in your home on a particular day, your project is not off our minds! In fact, we are always working on managing your remodel project.

    Design-Build Behind the Scenes of Your Project

    Our Design-Build Team at The Cleary Company in Columbus OH has grown our business on trust, so it is important that we clearly communicate with our clients. How we are planning for their project and more importantly when and why we will not be at your home periodically during the construction phase. Many of the “tiny touches” we give your project are done off the job site. So, even when it doesn’t appear that we are working on your project, we really are managing your remodel!

    Remodeling Done Right Starts with a Plan

    You may have heard the saying “Proper Planning Prevents Poor Performance”? We apply this concept to our remodeling projects, home additions and new home build projects everyday. Collaborating and doing the prep work and planning prior to getting to your home will make our team more efficient during the entire construction phase.

    Here are a few things that you may not see our Team doing as we are managing your remodel:

    • Pre-Construction meetings with trades and vendors to review plans
    • Project review meetings with Project Developer, Designer & Project Manager
    • Production Department Meetings with our entire field Team
    • Ordering building materials and products to build your project
    • Scheduling deliveries, inspections and trades
    • Reviewing and approving invoices
    • Budget & Schedule management

    We have industry professionals on our Team, from estimators and designers to project managers and skilled craftsman … oh yeah… Russell too, we cannot forget Russell! They are committed to create a design and scope of work to suite your family’s needs. We ensure the details are taken care of before and during construction of your home remodel. During the entire process, we are properly planning our performance, whether we are on your jobsite or not.

    Remodeling can sometimes be hard, messy and frustrating. However, when you choose to work with The Cleary Company you know exactly what you are getting- Communication, Expert Craftsmanship and Quality from a proud, prepared, and professional Team of experts!

    John Coleman CRPM

    Check out this video describing the Project Manager role for Team Cleary. Update in 2019 John hung up his toolbelt and transitioned to a Project Developer position. Opportunities for growth are an excellent way to retain valuable Team members!