Frequently Asked Questions
What is the FBC Remodel Design-Build approach To Home Additions & How is it different?
The traditional method involves hiring an architect for design, then bidding out the plans to separate general contractors for construction. This often leads to cost overruns and communication gaps. At FBC Remodel, we use the Design-Build model. This means your architect, interior designer, and construction team are all under one roof, working together from Day One. The benefits to you are greater efficiency, accurate budgeting throughout the design phase, seamless communication, and a single point of accountability. It means a faster, less stressful project for you.
What are the biggest cost drivers for Home Extensions?
- Moving major mechanical systems like plumbing and electrical
- Expanding the space into other rooms
- Updating flooring throughout connected areas
- Specialty finishes will impact your budget the most.
We can work with you to prioritize elements that give you the biggest impact within your budget. There are countless factors that make ballpark pricing an unexact science, but FBC Remodel has all the experience you need for garenteed pricing & completion dates. Our experts can help you in optimizing designs for cost-savings and exploring every option imaginable.
Do I need to move out during my Home Extension?
Most clients stay in their homes during the home extension project, though you’ll need to plan for some limited access during construction. Most importantly, we’ll provide a detailed schedule so you can prepare and make temporary arrangements for your daily routine (like meals).
Do I need to get permits for my home addition?
Yes, absolutely. Any project that involves adding square footage, altering the structure of your home, or changing plumbing/electrical/HVAC systems requires permits from your local municipality.
FBC Remodel handles all of it. Securing permits and ensuring compliance with local zoning and building codes is part of our comprehensive service. We manage the paperwork, submissions, and inspections so you don’t have to worry about a thing.
What if I want to change something during the design process?
That’s exactly why we use 3D renderings and have detailed Ideas Meetings. We want you to see everything clearly and make any changes before construction starts, so there are no surprises or regrets later.
How do you ensure the new addition matches the rest of my house?
This is a critical part of our design process! We believe a successful addition should look and feel like it was always meant to be there.
Our design team focuses on seamless integration, meticulously matching exterior elements like roofing, siding, brick, and window styles.
On the interior, we ensure a natural flow by aligning floor transitions, maintaining consistent trim and millwork, and using complementary materials to create a cohesive home aesthetic.
How long does a typical home addition project take?
The timeline for a home addition depends heavily on its size and complexity (a second-story addition takes longer than a garage bump-out). However, we break it down into two main phases:
- Design & Pre-Construction (Typical: 2-4 Months): This includes initial consultation, architectural drawings, material selections, engineering, final design approval, and permit acquisition. This stage is crucial for a smooth build.
- Construction (Typical: 3-8+ Months): This is the physical build, which starts with the foundation and ends with the final paint touch-ups.
Your project manager will provide a detailed, phase-by-phase schedule before we break ground, and we use a project management system to keep you updated on progress and milestones.
What is the return on investment (ROI) for a home addition?
A well-planned, high-quality home addition is generally considered one of the best ways to add significant resale value to your home, especially if it increases functional square footage like bedrooms and bathrooms.
In most markets, adding a Primary Suite or a full bathroom often yields the highest ROI.
Your greatest return is in your quality of life that builds joy & functionality for everyone in your home. A successful addition is one that solves your space problems and allows you to enjoy your home and neighborhood for years to come.