Adding more space to your home comes down to either building out or building up. For many Michigan homeowners, expanding upward is the most practical option. A second-story addition in Michigan can open the door to a new bedroom, larger living areas, private suites, or flexible family space without sacrificing your yard or changing the footprint of your home.
A project of this scale deserves careful planning. Second-story additions can be transformative, but they also involve structural considerations, engineering demands, and regulations that you’ll want to understand before moving forward. Let’s explore the key factors that make a second-story addition successful and what homeowners can expect from the process.
Choosing to build up is often the result of wanting more space, but not wanting to leave the home or neighborhood you love. Many Ann Arbor homes were built decades ago, so they offer incredible character but not a lot of square footage. A second-story addition allows homeowners to stay rooted in their community while investing in long-term livability.
Some families might need more bedrooms as their numbers grow or as older children need more privacy. Others might crave a home office or a primary suite that feels like a retreat. An addition can also give you space for multigenerational living, making it possible to create comfortable zones for every member of the household.
Building up also maximizes the value of your property. When outdoor areas are already established, or yard space is limited, a second story allows you to expand the function and improve the layout of your home.
Why Building a Second Story Can Be a Unique Challenge
Michigan’s climate and architectural landscape create specific considerations for homeowners and builders. Before you pursue a second-story addition, you’ll want to make sure you partner with a builder who understands the unique requirements of these projects, including:
Climate Considerations
A second-story addition must be designed with the region’s seasonal extremes in mind. Snow load, wind exposure, freeze-thaw cycles, and energy performance all shape the engineering process.
Roof design and snow load: New upper-level framing must safely support Michigan’s heavy winter snow. Structural engineers calculate load requirements and adjust roof pitch, framing size, and structural connections accordingly.
Insulation and air sealing: With more exterior walls and roof surface area, the new level must be insulated to maintain comfort and efficiency. Proper air sealing prevents heat loss and reduces the risk of ice dams on the roof.
Moisture management: Vapor barriers, flashing, and proper ventilation keep the structure dry and prevent long-term issues like mold and rot.
When done well, the new level will feel just as comfortable and energy efficient as the original home.
Structural Requirements
One of the most important steps in planning a second-story addition is understanding what the home can support. Not all existing structures are built to carry the weight of an additional level, and some require reinforcement.
Foundation evaluation: Builders must determine whether the foundation can support the added load. Some homes are well-suited for a second story from the start, while others need reinforcement or upgrades.
Load-bearing walls and structural tie-ins: Engineers analyze how weight is transferred down to the foundation and identify where reinforcements or new beams are needed.
Floor system upgrades: A second story often requires replacing or strengthening first-floor ceilings to support new joists above.
These steps ensure that the addition is not only safe but also durable for decades to come.
Local Codes & Restrictions
Every city and township in Michigan has its own zoning guidelines, and Ann Arbor is no exception. Setbacks, maximum building height, lot coverage rules, and neighborhood overlays all influence what kind of addition is possible.
A second-story addition brings architectural changes to the home’s exterior. That means the project must meet local design and safety standards. Working with a contractor who understands regional codes helps prevent delays and ensures the new structure integrates seamlessly into your neighborhood.
Cost Factors to Consider Before Building Up
A second-story addition can be one of the most substantial investments a homeowner makes. It can be helpful to know what factors influence the cost, as price varies depending on the size and complexity of the new space. Key cost drivers include:
Structural engineering and reinforcement
New roofing systems
Framing and load-bearing modifications
Staircase construction and main floor reconfiguration
Upgrades to mechanical systems, such as HVAC and electrical
Exterior finishes, including siding, trim, and window packages
Interior finishes, which range from simple to luxury grade
While the investment can be significant, building up adds considerable value to your property. You’ll increase square footage while improving the interior spaces, something that will appeal to buyers who already love your established neighborhood.
Challenges to Prepare For During a Second Story Addition
Every major remodel comes with challenges, but an experienced team can help you prepare for and manage them effectively. Knowing what to expect makes the process smoother and a lot less stressful.
Some challenges to consider include:
Living in the home during construction. Some families choose to stay in the home while the second story is being built. Most of the time, this isn’t a problem, but it does require a lot of coordination with the building team. MBK coordinates temporary protections and safe access points for the family.
Weather interruptions. Michigan weather can be unpredictable. Experienced builders like MBK know how to protect open structures and plan around seasonal conditions so work doesn’t come to a standstill.
Protection of the existing home. From dust containment to temporary ceilings, protecting the original structure is essential. A well-managed site keeps the interior clean and minimizes disruptions to the family’s daily routine.
Choose a Trusted Partner for Second Story Projects in Michigan
Adding a second story to your home is a major investment, and choosing the right team can help make sure that investment pays off. MBK Constructors brings decades of experience working on Michigan homes, including older and historic properties that require careful structural integration. Our team includes engineers, designers, and architects who craft every detail so it aligns with your ultimate vision.
Our approach is rooted in clear communication, respectful jobsite management, and craftsmanship that will stand the test of time. If you are considering a second-story addition in Michigan, we would love to talk about your goals and explore what building up could look like in your home.
An addition can add valuable and much-needed space to the home you love. It can be a great way to increase your square footage for a home office, bigger kitchen, or even a guest suite. While deciding to expand your home can be exciting, a lot of homeowners in Ann Arbor worry about juggling the architects, engineers, and contractors needed to make it happen.
A design-build home addition can make this process so much easier. This method streamlines every phase of the project by bringing architects, designers, and builders together onto one unified team. Instead of coordinating multiple companies, homeowners work with a single project manager who handles everything from concept to construction. The home addition process becomes a lot more manageable, so you can design the home you’ve always wanted, without the hassle of moving or leaving the neighborhood you love.
Design-build is a project delivery method where the same company handles both the design and construction of your home addition. You sign one contract and work with one team throughout the project. This is a different method from the traditional design-bid-build approach, where an architect designs the plans, a contractor bids on them, and a separate builder actually completes the work.
With design-build, one team collaborates on your project. Designers are aware of construction realities, and builders understand the designer’s intent, because they’ve all worked together from the start. Because everyone is working toward the same goals, the process moves more efficiently and has fewer surprises along the way.
How the Design-Build Home Addition Process Works
Every home addition is unique, but the design-build process generally follows a similar path:
Initial consultation: The team meets with you to understand your goals, challenges, and vision for the new space. This includes discussing budget ranges, architectural style, and project feasibility.
Conceptual design: Designers create early sketches and layout options that fit your home and lifestyle. Because builders are involved at this stage, they can offer input on structural requirements, material costs, and potential challenges.
Budget development: You receive a realistic estimate based on the complexity of the design. This step eliminates guesswork and prevents expensive surprises that often come from traditional building models.
Revisions and final plans: The team refines the design until it meets your expectations. Plans are detailed enough for construction and for obtaining necessary permits.
Permitting and scheduling: Design-build teams handle all zoning and approvals, which is especially valuable in Ann Arbor’s historic neighborhoods.
Construction: Once construction begins, the team follows the agreed timeline and maintains open communication about daily progress. Because design and construction teams are aligned, the project stays consistent with the approved plans and selections.
Final walk-through: You review the completed addition with your project manager so every detail is finished to your expectations.
The full-service approach to home additions reduces delays, improves design accuracy, and produces a cohesive final result that integrates beautifully with the rest of your home.
Why Design Build is Ideal for Home Additions
A design-build home addition offers several advantages, especially for homeowners expanding older or historic homes in Ann Arbor.
Better Communication from Start to Finish
With a single team handling everything, communication is clearer and more focused. You don’t have to act as the go-between for architects and contractors. It reduces your stress and eliminates a lot of miscommunication.
More Accurate Budgeting
Because pricing is developed early with builder input, estimates reflect real construction conditions. Potential issues are identified before final plans are completed, which protects you from unexpected costs.
Faster Timelines and Workflow
Design and construction phases often overlap, which keeps projects moving forward. When adjustments are needed, the team can pivot quickly without waiting for outside approvals.
Better Consistency in Craftsmanship
A design-build team works with a single goal. Details like finishes and architectural features are determined at the start of the project. This works well for historic homes where additions need to blend into the existing structure of the home.
Easily Tailored to Work in Older or Historic Homes
Many homes in Ann Arbor were built decades ago. They need structural and mechanical updates, along with the addition. Design-build contractors understand how to bring homes up to current standards without taking away from their historic charm.
What Types of Additions Work Best With the Design-Build Process?
Design-build is flexible and works well with a wide variety of home addition projects, including:
No matter which type of addition you choose, the unified process of a design-build team can make the final space look and feel more cohesive with the rest of your home.
Why MBK Constructors Is a Trusted Design-Build Partner for Home Additions
MBK Constructors has decades of experience designing and building home additions throughout Ann Arbor and its surrounding communities. Our team understands the complexity of expanding older homes and the importance of craftsmanship that respects the original architecture. We guide homeowners through every phase of their home addition with a process that puts your comfort and vision first.
Our design-build method creates a smoother experience with fewer surprises and a result that matches just what you imagined (or even better!). Let our team bring precision, skill, and design to your next project. Contact MBK Constructors today to schedule a design-build consultation.
Want to create a quiet, private, and highly functional workspace at home? Your basement space could be the key. Maybe you work from home full-time, split your time between the office and home, or just want a dedicated space for your creative pursuits. Whatever the reason, many Ann Arbor homeowners are now exploring basement home office ideas. This often underutilized space offers terrific opportunities for customization, and the right plan can turn a lower level into a bright and motivating workspace.
Learn more about the benefits of converting a basement into a home office and what you’ll want to consider before you start this project.
The Benefits of Converting a Basement Into a Home Office
Basements naturally offer separation from the busiest parts of the home. That makes them ideal for focused work. The physical distance from busier parts of the home, like the kitchen and living room, minimizes noise and interruptions so you can concentrate more effectively. Basements also provide opportunities to design a layout that fits your personal workflow. With open square footage and fewer fixed elements to work around, your lower level can house an office, meeting room, editing suite, craft studio, or even a combination of these.
Another major advantage is the ability to customize lighting, acoustics, and storage. Because most basements start as a blank slate, you can shape the environment to support productivity instead of adapting to the limitations of an upstairs room. The result is a space tailored to your work and lifestyle needs while also increasing the potential resale value of your home.
Basement Home Office Ideas That Will Inspire Productivity
A great home office starts with thoughtful planning. Even if your current basement feels dark or unfinished, the right design can turn it into one of the best rooms in the house.
Creating a Bright, Comfortable Workspace
Light is one of the biggest concerns for basement offices. A layered lighting plan that includes ambient overhead fixtures, warm task lighting at the desk, and accent lighting on walls or shelving creates a balanced and welcoming environment.
Consider using light reflective paint in neutral tones to brighten the space further. If your basement can accommodate egress windows or window wells, they bring in natural light and improve ventilation. That can help the basement feel more like an extension of the main floor.
Soundproofing for Meetings and Focused Work
For homeowners who take video calls or phone meetings regularly, sound control is essential. Insulated walls, solid core doors, and acoustic ceiling tiles significantly reduce noise. Adding soft elements like rugs or upholstered seating helps absorb sound and improve clarity during calls. You can also design a dedicated recording or meeting zone if your work involves presentations or media creation.
Built-in Storage to Combat Basement Clutter
Basements often collect household storage, which can compete with office needs. Built-in shelving, cabinets, and concealed storage nooks help maintain a clean and professional workspace. Custom cabinetry allows you to keep documents, office supplies, and equipment organized without sacrificing aesthetics.
Multi-Zone Layouts for Work + Wellness
Many homeowners appreciate a basement office that supports a range of activities. You might combine your desk area with a craft table, photo studio, small gym, or podcasting space. Each zone can have its own lighting, storage, and layout so the basement supports both productivity and relaxation. This type of flexible design makes the lower level one of the most valuable rooms in the home.
Design Tips to Elevate a Basement Workspace
Even well-designed basements can struggle with low ceilings or limited daylight. These solutions help the space feel intentional and comfortable:
Improve the ceiling design. Proper ceiling treatments improve acoustics, which adds comfort during long workdays. Drop ceilings using sleek, large-format tiles offer a polished aesthetic while hiding mechanical systems.
Incorporate architectural interest. Small architectural details can elevate the basement’s character. Partial walls provide privacy without blocking light. Wood beams, column wraps, or softly curved archways add warmth and sophistication.
Make the climate comfortable. Your basement office should feel comfortable in every season. Temperature control, insulation, and lighting must work together to create a stable environment. For homeowners who spend several hours a day in the space, this is a quality-of-life investment that pays off quickly.
What to Consider Before Starting a Basement Remodel
A basement remodel has different considerations than a standard interior renovation. You’ll want to work with an experienced basement remodeler who can help you create a thoughtful design and remodeling plan.
Some of the things to consider before you get started include:
Structural and space requirements. Ceiling height, ductwork, beams, and columns all influence the layout. A skilled team can reconfigure or creatively conceal these elements to maximize usable space. Egress requirements are also important for safety and compliance.
Plans for electrical and tech needs. Modern offices require significant power access. Outlets, charging stations, Ethernet connections, and built-in cable paths are essential for efficient work. Planning these early prevents the space from feeling cluttered later.
Address moisture and ventilation. Before converting a basement into a home office, it is essential to manage moisture. Waterproofing, sump pump inspections, improved drainage, and vapor barriers prevent future issues. Proper HVAC adjustments keep air quality high, which is especially important in closed environments.
Basement work often involves technical know-how and special considerations. Working with a design-build team like MBK helps streamline the process and ensures functional and aesthetic decisions support one another.
Ready to Transform Your Basement? MBK Constructors Can Help
A lower-level transformation can redefine how you work at home. With expert planning, quality craftsmanship, and a focus on comfort and function, MBK Constructors can turn your basement into a workspace that feels inspiring every day. Let our team bring out the full potential of your basement space, whether you want a private office, craft studio, media room, or more. We can design a basement that meets the needs of your household.
The top home remodeling trends for 2025 emphasize sustainability, wellness, and timeless design, with homeowners prioritizing natural materials, smart home integration, multi-functional spaces, and aging-in-place features that combine beauty with long-term practicality.
If you’re planning a remodel this year, staying informed about home remodeling trends 2025 can help you make smart, lasting design decisions. The latest trends are less about chasing what’s new and more about creating homes that are functional, sustainable, and timeless. The ideas shaping 2025 are setting the stage for how we’ll live—and design—in 2026.
Designers are moving toward warmer, nature-inspired interiors and smart, sustainable choices. Think real materials, layered textures, and lighting that sets the tone for everyday living and entertaining.
Sustainable and eco-friendly materials
Sustainability continues to shape home renovation trends. Expect more reclaimed woods, low- or no-VOC finishes, and durable natural stone. Many homeowners are eager for energy-saving upgrades, too.
Warm, natural color palettes
Crisp white interiors are giving way to richer, earthy hues. Designers are highlighting warm neutrals, soft browns, ochres, and greens for a grounded look that still feels clean. It’s a shift away from stark minimalism to something that feels cozier.
Textured and organic finishes
Texture adds depth without visual clutter. Think rift-sawn oak, limewash, honed stone, handmade tile, and woven textiles. 2025 consistently celebrated tactile, organic finishes that make rooms feel inviting and calm.
Statement lighting and fixtures
Lighting now functions as jewelry for the room. Sculptural pendants, linear chandeliers, and layered lighting plans are central to the look. Even practical spaces benefit from dimmers and accent lights that can shift a room from task to unwind mode. New smart fixtures also bring convenience and efficiency.
What kitchen trends are emerging for 2025?
Kitchens remain the heart of the home, and they are getting warmer, more personal, and more streamlined.
Two-tone cabinetry and mixed materials
Designers are pairing painted uppers with natural wood lowers or mixing stained oak with color on the island. The blend brings contrast and warmth without feeling busy. Wood is a hero in kitchen design once again, particularly white oak with a visible grain. It’s modern and timeless all at once.
Integrated appliances for a seamless look
Hidden or integrated pieces are a top request from homeowners. Panel-ready and concealed appliances are everywhere. Appliance garages, tall pantry walls, and flush fronts reduce visual noise while keeping tools within reach.
Larger pantries and storage solutions
Expect walk-in pantries, sculleries, or tall cabinet runs that hide small appliances and bulk goods. Kitchen trends in 2025 were all about organization as a driver of the new warm minimal look.
Durable, low-maintenance surfaces
Homeowners want countertops and finishes that handle real life. Honed or leathered stone, high-quality porcelain slabs, and performance quartz are strong options. The priority is durability with a natural look that fits the move toward texture.
What bathroom trends should you consider?
Bathrooms are leaning spa-like while staying practical. The focus is on comfort and sensory materials.
Spa-like primary bathrooms
Expect generous showers, benches, and quiet lighting. Designers are referencing spa features for daily luxury instead of weekend-only treats.
Freestanding tubs and walk-in showers
If you have the space, a freestanding tub can be a beautiful visual anchor in a bathroom. Many homeowners also prioritize walk-in or curbless showers for ease of use and cleaner lines. These are great for long-term accessibility and aging in place while still looking high-end.
Natural stone and organic materials
Travertine, limestone, tumbled marble, and warm woods bring that earthy feel into the bath. Texture plus soft color creates a retreat that still feels current.
Smart fixtures and heated floors
Smart tech isn’t just for the rest of the house. Smart controls, water monitoring, and heated floors are becoming standard requests. These upgrades are practical in cold-weather markets like Ann Arbor and show the continued shift toward smart home tech.
How is technology shaping home remodeling?
Technology is moving from gimmick to everyday utility. The best solutions disappear into the background and make homes easier to live in.
Smart home integration
Lighting, climate, and security systems can run through a single platform, making smart home tech easier to use. Smart sensors are triggering home tech based on activity instead of input. Now, lighting and climate can be adjusted by walking into a room instead of tapping the request into your phone.
Energy-efficient systems and appliances
High-efficiency HVAC, induction ranges, heat pump water heaters, and Energy Star appliances offer comfort with less waste. Expect smart home adoption and efficiency investments to keep growing through the decade.
Touchless and voice-activated features
Faucets, vent hoods, and door hardware now come in touchless options. Voice control is useful when hands are full or messy and can be layered over traditional switches for flexibility.
Home offices with built-in tech infrastructure
Hybrid work is here to stay. Designers are building in better task lighting, concealed cable paths, acoustic treatments, and camera-friendly backgrounds that look professional on video calls.
Which trends have staying power vs. passing fads?
The smartest remodels combine timeless structure with trend-right accents. Build the canvas to last and let the details flex over time.
Timeless choices
Use authentic materials
Choose warm, neutral color palettes
Invest in quality craftsmanship
Plan thoughtful lighting
Focus on balance and longevity
Trend-forward accents
Experiment with bold color
Update cabinet hardware and light fixtures
Add personality through accents
Refresh walls with paint
Blend trendy details with timeless foundations
How to balance trendy and timeless in your remodel
Start with a durable layout and envelope. Choose cabinetry, flooring, and tile that fit your long-term taste. Next, layer in current fixtures and colors to freshen the look. If you are unsure about a feature, sample it in a smaller area first. Focus most of the budget on layout, storage, ventilation, and waterproofing. Style can change later, while good bones keep serving you for decades.
Let MBK Constructors Help You Create a Timeless, Trend-Right Home
Trends are most valuable when they support how you live. MBK Constructors pairs design insight with practical construction knowledge so your project looks fresh and functions beautifully. Our team reviews your wish list, studies the home, and collaborates with architects and vendors to specify materials that reflect the best of 2025 home design trends without feeling dated next year. We help you decide where to embrace the new and where to invest in enduring structure and craftsmanship.
Schedule a design-build consultation with MBK Constructors, and we’ll help you translate your ideas into a clear plan for the future of your home.
FAQ Section
Q: Should I follow trends or stick with classic design?
A: The best approach is to use timeless design as your foundation and incorporate trends through easily changeable elements like paint, lighting, and hardware. This ensures your remodel stays relevant without feeling dated.
Q: What’s the most popular kitchen trend for 2025?
A: Two-tone cabinetry continues to dominate, often pairing white or light upper cabinets with darker lowers or a contrasting island. This trend offers visual interest while remaining versatile and timeless.
Q: Are open-concept homes still popular?
A: Open-concept layouts remain popular, but there’s a growing trend toward “broken plan” designs that offer flexibility with partial walls, sliding doors, or strategic furniture placement to create defined zones while maintaining flow.
Preparing your home for a renovation involves clearing and protecting the work area, removing valuables and fragile items, establishing clear communication with your contractor, and setting up temporary living arrangements if needed—all steps that help ensure a smooth, stress-free remodeling experience.
A successful remodel doesn’t start on demo day. It starts with a good plan. Knowing how to prepare for a home remodel can help protect your belongings and keep things running smoothly. A clear remodeling preparation checklist can help prepare before remodeling starts and deal with the process while it’s happening. Here are some practical home renovation tips to help you feel more organized (and calm!) from day one.
Before the tools arrive and the walls come down, there are a few steps you’ll want to take to save time and money. Think of this as your jump start to preparing for home renovations. These steps will help set expectations, protect your valuables, and create a safer, cleaner work environment.
Clear the work area and adjacent spaces
Empty the project zone completely, including cabinets, closets, and shelves. Next, clear a buffer zone of 3-6 feet around the workspace so crews can move safely and stage all of their materials. Use labeled bins to group items you’ll need during construction versus what can be stored.
Remove or protect furniture, artwork, and valuables
Relocate fragile decor, heirlooms, electronics, and important documents to a closed room away from dust and debris. If you have delicate items that are too large to move, cover them with plastic sheeting and moving blankets. Use blue painters’ tape along the edges to keep dust out. You may also want to consider short-term storage options.
Photograph the space for before-and-after comparisons
Take wide shots and detail photos from multiple angles. These images are useful for design decisions, documentation, and celebrating the progress of your project.
Discuss the project timeline and expectations with your contractor
Talk to your contractor to confirm:
The start date
Daily work hours
Delivery windows
Key milestones for demo, rough-in, inspections, and finishes
Check to see if any utilities will be interrupted and if there are rooms you’ll need to stay out of during the remodel. Agree on jobsite rules like parking, music volume, and end-of-day cleanup so everyone knows the expectations on the jobsite.
How do you protect your home during a remodel?
Construction creates a love of dust and traffic, no matter how careful a contractor might be. A little protection goes a long way, and these steps are standard on MBK projects. We think they are essential on any remodeling preparation checklist.
Establish dust barriers and containment zones
Ask your contractor to install zipper-door plastic barriers and (if appropriate) HEPA filtration systems. Seal vents to keep dust out of the HVAC system. If you are going to remain in the home during the renovation, request a “clean corridor” so you can move around your home safely while minimizing dust transfer.
Protect flooring in high-traffic areas
Use floor protection from the entry to the work zone. Add corner guards on tight turns and stair protection where materials will be carried. Place shoe-cleaning mats at thresholds to reduce dust migration.
Secure pets and create safe spaces for them
Noise and strangers can be stressful for animals. Set up a quiet room with food, water, and a familiar bed. Add temporary baby gates for added security. Share pet routines and sensitivities with the project manager.
Plan for alternative access routes if needed
If the main entry or a hallway will be blocked, identify a secondary route and keep it well-lit and clear.
What should you plan for during the renovation?
Living through construction is easier with a few strategic adjustments. Prepare the “workarounds” now, and the day-to-day will feel far less disruptive.
Set up a temporary kitchen or bathroom if needed
For kitchen projects, relocate a mini-fridge, microwave, toaster oven, and coffee station to a spare room or basement. Stock disposable plates or designate a utility sink for dishwashing. During bath remodels, coordinate shower and laundry schedules, and consider off-site options for the most disruptive weeks. The local gym or a friendly neighbor can be good options.
Establish communication protocols with your contractor
Decide how you’ll exchange updates and who the primary contact is for decisions. Request a weekly look-ahead schedule so you know when loud work, inspections, or material deliveries will occur.
Plan for noise, dust, and schedule disruptions
Even with containment, you’ll hear saws and smell finishes occasionally. Noise-canceling headphones, white-noise machines, and flexible work hours help. Expect a few schedule shifts due to inspections or back-ordered items.
Keep kids and pets safe around the work area
Treat construction areas like a pool: off-limits without an adult. Talk to kids about why they can’t touch any of the tools and that the barriers need to remain closed.
How do you prepare emotionally and mentally?
Mindset matters! Remodeling is exciting, but any change can feel disruptive. Planning for the human impact of a renovation can keep stress in check.
Set realistic expectations for disruption
There will be dust, noise, and days when progress feels slow. Remind yourself in the messy middle phases that these are necessary steps for a finished space.
Plan activities outside the home during noisy work
Run errands in the morning, head to the park in the afternoon, or sign up for a co-working space during the day. Pre-book some off-site breaks during heavy demo days so you can get a break.
Stay flexible with timelines and decisions
You’ll make major selections early in the process, but be open to small changes during the process. Flexibility often leads to a better final product.
Trust your contractor’s expertise
You hired professionals for a reason! Something unexpected can (and often does) happen in a home renovation, but collaborating with an expert and getting their advice can make a setback nothing more than a minor bump in the road.
What questions should you ask your contractor before starting?
Clear communication prevents confusion and protects your investment. Use this list to guide your kickoff meeting about what to do before remodeling and how the team will operate in your home.
What are the work hours and expected timeline?
How will you handle dust and debris?
What access do workers need to my home?
How do we communicate about changes or concerns?
How MBK Constructors Makes Remodeling Easier
Stewardship isn’t just a promise we make; it’s baked into our process. We install dust containment, protect your floors, and maintain clean, organized jobsites from start to finish. Our project managers set clear expectations up front and provide plenty of updates so you always know what’s happening next. Our goal is to minimize disruption and deliver outstanding craftsmanship on every project.
Feel prepared, not overwhelmed. Let MBK guide you through how to prepare for a home remodel with a customized prep plan. Connect with one of our project managers to get started.
FAQ Section
Q: How much should I pack away before a remodel?
A: Clear everything from the immediate work area and adjacent rooms. Remove fragile items, valuables, and personal belongings from any space where dust could travel. Your contractor can provide specific guidance based on your project scope.
Q: Should I stay in my home during a major remodel?
A: It depends on the scope of work. Kitchen and bathroom remodels can often be managed while living in the home, though it requires flexibility. Whole-home renovations may require temporary relocation. Discuss options with your contractor.
Q: How far in advance should I start preparing?
A: Begin preparation 2-4 weeks before construction starts. This gives you time to clear spaces, make arrangements, and address any questions with your contractor without feeling rushed
