Palisade Contractings Frequently Asked Questions in Duluth, Minnesota

Timelines vary based on the scope of the project, but we understand that homeowners want to know what to expect. A project can be broken down into two phases: the planning phase and the labor/execution phase. During the planning phase, we create designs, material lists, and a detailed labor itinerary outlining the execution phase. Our goal is to execute the planning phase efficiently so that the labor/execution phase proceeds quickly and smoothly, allowing you to return to your living space. At Palisade, we place significant importance on planning and creating a labor itinerary, giving our clients a clear picture of what to expect throughout the process.

Homeowners should consider potential delays due to permit approvals, material availability, weather conditions, or changes to the scope of work requested by the client before, during, or at the end of a project.

Choosing the right contractor can be difficult, as it has been reported that only 1% of homeowners have had a good service experience with their remodeling contractor (orical.com). To rule out unreliable contractors, verify that they have up-to-date licenses, proper liability insurance, and, where applicable, workers’ compensation. Additionally, ensure the company’s business is in good standing with the state’s Secretary of State.

Asking the right questions when interviewing potential remodeling contractors is key to determining a good fit. Important questions include:

• Will you acquire the necessary permits for the project? Permits ensure materials are installed properly and to code, protecting the homeowner. Not all projects require permits, but it’s important to understand the process.
• What workmanship guarantees do you offer? A guarantee ensures that material installation is free from defects for a period of time. In Minnesota, general construction requires a minimum one-year workmanship guarantee.
• What should I expect if I move forward? A contractor should clearly explain the planning and labor phases. If they cannot provide clear answers, this may be a red flag.

Some renovations can be disruptive, and homeowners need to know if it’s feasible to stay or if alternative living arrangements are necessary. At Palisade, we discuss expectations during the planning phase, including noise levels, accessibility to appliances, and restroom facilities, to determine what is best for each specific project.

All projects are unique and require specific care to minimize disruptions. This is influenced by the type of renovation and the preferences or needs of the client. At Palisade, these details are accounted for during the planning phase as our overall goal is to reduce noise, dust, and debris, etc.

At Palisade, we believe in a “what you see is what you pay” model. We only approach clients with a change-of-work request for two reasons:

1. The client wants to change or add work not included in the original agreement.
2. We identify and discuss potential unforeseen issues, such as structural problems, plumbing, or electrical complications, in specific areas of the home beforehand. These issues are documented, and a plan to address them is agreed upon before proceeding.

Permits are a critical part of the renovation process. While not always required, permits ensure that builders and installers are accountable for installing materials properly and to code for safety and longevity. This protects homeowners by ensuring all building materials are installed correctly before the project is finished.

Some homeowners are unfamiliar with the different approaches to home remodeling. At Palisade, we tailor our approach based on the scope of work. We believe clients should see the product before purchasing, like test-driving a car before purchasing it. We work closely with clients to provide anything from ground-up 3D designs and architectural drafts to simple 2D drawings with Pinterest board inspirations, ensuring clients understand what they’re getting and how the project will turn out before work even starts. In contrast, traditional home remodeling may involve a “go with the flow” approach, where changes are made on the fly, potentially leaving homeowners uncertain about the materials being used and the project’s outcome or timeline.

Updating or adding to your living space significantly impacts your home’s value. Factors such as the type of renovation, how long you plan to live in your home, and the purpose of the renovation (e.g., preparing for resale, improving functionality, or updating aesthetics) influence which renovations offer the best ROI. At Palisade, our clients have experienced anywhere from a 60% to over 100% ROI on certain projects. One of our goals is to discuss how to maximize your returns when discussing project scope.

Palisade focuses on interior design, remodeling, and additions. Most of our work can be completed year-round, thanks to advancements in technology that make previously challenging installs feasible. This offers flexibility for both us and our clients to start at convenient times.