Getting Started:
Finding a remodeling contractor that can provide quality craftsmanship, creative design, and total project organization is difficult. The Bartelt Design/Build Process allows us to interact with you, the homeowner, from concept to completion. We are eager to hear about your project ideas and expectations in your first call, and to set up a meeting with a Project Coordinator, who will be your guide through the entire remodeling process.

Preparation:
Many of our clients find the "Needs, Wants, and Wishes" template helpful in defining the priorities of their project. Other clients like to cut out pictures from magazines, or draw a rough sketch of what they have been imagining. We do recommend that you discuss your budget prior to your first meeting.

First Consultation:
Your Project Coordinator will discuss your needs, wants, and wishes for your home. He or she will give you general ideas of what could be possible, as well as work with you to develop a realistic budget. This complimentary visit will include discussion of our Design/Build approach and the fee associated with proceeding into the Design Phase.

Design Agreement/Field Measure:
After retaining our Design Services, your Project Coordinator, Designer, and Project Estimator will schedule another visit, called a field measure. At this time, we will review your project goals in detail. We will measure the existing home and photograph the existing conditions of the project site. The design process also includes a "Mechanical Walk-Through" at your residence to coordinate the Electric, HVAC, and Plumbing systems with the new project.

Design Review Meetings:
The first Design Review Meeting is scheduled three weeks after the Field Measure. Over the course of these meetings, your design will evolve from general concept to specific details. Our designers have several ways to help you visualize your project including elevations, hand-drawn perspectives, and 3-D computer rendered drawings. We will continue to develop your budget, discuss materials, and revise the design-following your direction and incorporating your creative input.

Construction Agreement:
The Project Coordinator, Designer, and Estimator all work together to review the specifications and plans. The Project Coordinator then schedules a Construction Agreement appointment, where you will review and execute the paperwork. Shortly thereafter, the Designer begins the Construction Documents and obtains engineering calculations, municipal design approval, and permits.

Ready To Build:
Our Design/Build approach allows us to transition from the Design Phase to the Production Phase seamlessly. The Design Team presents the project to the Production Team in detail and conveys any unique challenges. Shortly after signing the Construction Agreement, you will begin meeting with our on-staff, professional Interior Designer to finalize selections of finishes, products, and materials. The Interior Designer will accompany you to area showrooms and provide expert advice on how to portray your personal style.

Pre-Construction Meeting:
The Project Coordinator and the Production Team will meet with you at the project site to walk-through the project. This meeting is a great time to meet the Production Team and ask any questions you may have pertaining to the logistics of the project. Our goal is to set up a communication system that will guarantee the smooth, timely completion of your project and the safety of your family.

During Construction:
Our production staff works very hard to keep the lines of communication open. Your Production Administrator will handle the day to day construction schedule, accounting, and coordinates any subcontractors. The Expediter handles in-field supervision, and the Lead Carpenter oversees the crew during the construction. Your on-going relationship with your Project Coordinator will ensure that the expectations you set forth in the Design Process are being met.

Completion:
When the project is nearing completion, your Expediter will walk through the project with you and form a list of items that need to be addressed before we leave the job site. This is called a “punch list.” The Design/Build process comes full circle when your Project Coordinator makes a final visit to hear your feedback and to give you warranty and product usage information. Your Project Coordinator will also show you some important details pertaining to your project such as window operation and cleaning procedures, appliance procedures, and any other specific operation tips to make your project enjoyable to use as well as maintain.