Living on a construction site can be challenging — it’s noisy, dusty, and often feels disorganized, especially during the early stages. Heavy equipment, exposed framing, rough plumbing, and electrical work create an environment that looks messy before it starts looking like a home.

It’s important to know that construction mess is temporary. As the project moves into drywall, finishes, and trim work, the space will start coming together quickly. Patience during the messy middle stages pays off when you see the transformation toward the final, beautiful result. We work hard to keep sites as clean and safe as possible, but some disruption is inevitable — and completely normal — in the process of building something new.

New construction is typically more straightforward because you’re starting from scratch. Remodels, on the other hand, involve working within — and around — existing structures, which adds complexity and cost.

Here’s why remodeling is more challenging:

• Demolition and Discovery: We often uncover hidden conditions like dry rot, outdated wiring, or previous substandard repairs. These surprises must be addressed before new work can move forward.

• Adapting to the Existing Structure: Remodels rarely offer perfect conditions. When tying into an old structure, it’s sometimes impossible to achieve level, plumb, and square all at once — compromises must be made to prioritize what matters most.

• Function vs. Fashion: Remodeling often forces decisions between maintaining the home’s original appearance or updating for better function. Every existing situation is different, and thoughtful problem-solving is crucial.

In new construction, we can design and build from the ground up without adapting to unknowns, which streamlines the process and generally reduces costs compared to remodeling.

Changes can be made after construction begins, but they often come at a cost.
It’s vastly cheaper — and easier — to make changes on paper during the design and pre-construction phase than to modify plans once the project is underway.

That’s why we place so much emphasis on thorough pre-construction planning:

• We work closely with you upfront to finalize designs, selections, budgets, and timelines.

• If changes are requested mid-construction, they will require a change order — which can affect costs, schedules, and sometimes even require new permits or rework.

• The more planning we do in advance, the smoother and more predictable your project will be.

You’ll be involved throughout the entire project — and your input is critical to its success.
We believe that strong relationships and trust between the homeowner and builder make for the smoothest and most rewarding building experience.

Here’s how we keep you engaged:

• Regular Updates: We’ll provide ongoing communication about progress, next steps, and anything requiring your attention.

• Scheduled Walkthroughs: At key milestones, we’ll invite you to walk the project and discuss any questions or adjustments.

• Collaborative Problem-Solving: If issues arise, we’ll work together on solutions that protect your vision and priorities.

Our goal is to make sure you feel informed, respected, and excited every step of the way.

For new construction projects on an empty lot, you won’t need to move at all — which makes the process easier.
However, if you’re living adjacent to the construction site (such as building a new structure on your property), it’s important to know:

• Construction zones can be messy, noisy, and busy.

• There will be increased traffic from deliveries, subcontractors, and heavy equipment.

• Parking and access may sometimes be temporarily affected.

• Mud, dust, debris, and safety barriers are common during active construction.

It is absolutely possible to coexist near a construction site, but it requires flexibility and patience.

For remodeling projects, living onsite is more common — but it can be difficult.
Sometimes we must create makeshift kitchens, seal off parts of the home, and work around your daily life. While we do everything possible to minimize disruption, it’s important to know that remodel living can be challenging at times.

Absolutely.
At Duramen Builds, coordinating permits and inspections is a core part of our job as your full-service contractor.

We manage the entire process for you, including:

• Preparing and submitting permit applications

• Coordinating required inspections at every construction stage

• Ensuring that all work meets current building codes and standards

Our goal is to make the building process as smooth, compliant, and stress-free as possible for you.