Q: This is our first remodeling attempt; does your company design plans based on our ideas since we have no drawn plans? Or do we need blueprints from an architect?

A: We have a design team that will sit with you, listen and design a rough draft of your remodeling ideas, then present to you the finished drawing in a 3D format providing an excellent visual of the finished room. You’ll be able to review at this point and make changes (if needed) to the colors, floor coverings, countertop finishes, cabinets or possibly second thoughts.

Q: How long have you been in business?

A: GB General Contractors was established in 1979. Click here to read more about our family business.

Q: I have heard the term “DesignBuild”, what exactly does this mean?

A: DesignBuild is a term used for a contractor that handles a project from conception to finish. The client meets with the contractor of their choice; during the initial meeting, the contractor will discuss costs associated with the remodeling project. Once the client is comfortable with the budget numbers, then they will work closely with the contractor's design team. The design team will come up with drawings that meet the client’s ideas while keeping within the suggested budget. Once the design is approved by the client, a written proposal is submitted for approval, signed by both parties and the remodeling project is under way!

Q: What are the benefits of DesignBuild?

A: The benefit is we establish a working relationship between the owner, designer/ architect and the builder before construction ever begins; everyone has input on the project, the client is comfortable with the team, be it questions or changes, therefore communication is facilitated and the project flows smoothly. The downside of not having the team built at the onset is that you might design yourself out of your initial budget before you realize it has indeed exceeded the dollar amount set. Plan, discuss, design, view…then proceed.

Q: Do you have an interior designer that can help us?

A: Yes we have licensed experienced interior designers that can help you through the design process.

Q: What does CAP stand for?

A: CAP stands for Certified Aging in Place, helping physically challenged people by redesigning their home to accommodate their particular needs as they age, all the while keeping comfort and accessibility as their number one concern.

Q: Should I get references from the builder or contractor I choose?

A: Yes, any builder you choose should be able and willing to provide you with a list of references of past clients.

Q: When is the best time to remodel my home?

A: It is preferable to start planning your remodeling project right after the first of the year and begin construction in early spring. The holiday celebrations are over, things are less hectic around your home and depending on the size of the project, you can enjoy a peaceful summer.

Q: How do I know if I should remodel or simply build a new home?

A: It all depends on the value of your home in comparison to the cost of your remodeling project. Right now is a great time to remodel because of how low interest rates are on home loans. Many people love their current home if they could add a room or redesign their kitchen. If you feel that you will not be able to recoupe investment then it would be best to build a new home. You can check with a local Realtor to see what homes are selling for in your neighborhood and they could give you a estimate of what your house would be worth once your remodeling project is complete.

Q: What trade organizations are you apart of?

A: GB General Contractors are members of the Greater Houston Builder Association, the Remodelors Council, member of the National Association of Home Builders and member of the Texas Association of Builders. Read more about us.

Q: I have seen this acronym “TRCC” in several periodicals…what does it stand for and how important should the contractor we choose be part of or certified by?

A: The TRCC stands for "Texas Residential Construction Commission", a mediation-arbitration commission setup to resolve any disputes between a contractor and a client in hopes of avoiding or needing to continue to litigation. The TRCC requires all construction contracts in excess of $10,000 to be registered with the board. In turn, the board requires municipal inspections (if the remodeling is in the city limits) and a third party inspection (if the contract is in the county).

Q: What does Aging In Place? We are seeing this term in numerous remodeling magazines.

A: Aging in Place is the term used when a home owner requires modifications to their current home to make it more comfortable for them as they age, or perhaps thinking ahead with thoughts of doorways being too narrow for a wheelchair or staircases not being feasible in the near future for a parent living with them.

Q: Do you have references we can call to verify your work?

A: We certainly do and we would gladly provide you with a list of references.

Q: Is there additional training you do to stay up with the latest building codes and new materials?

A: We attend seminars through out the year to stay current with the latest building trends and requirements. TRCC requires us to take to attend a seminar once every five years to stay current.

Q: Do you use third party inspections?

A: TRCC requires us to have 3rd party inspections on any construction work in the county and exceeds $10,000 in cost. For within the city limit remodeling contracts, each will be inspected by the municipal inspectors.

Q: How long have your contractors worked for you?

A: Some of our contractors have been with us for the last 15 years. We have a great working relationship with all of our contractors.

Q: What kind of work do you specialize in?

A: GB General Contractors is a remodeling, designbuild firm. Our team can take your project from the initial design phase to completion. We specialize in kitchen redesign, master bath remodels, room additions, garage conversions, and whole house remodeling.

More Questions? We look forward to hearing from you...

Gil, Pattie and the Team
GB General Contractors
sales@mygbbuilder.com
(281) 412.9988