Our Process
Designing & Building Custom Homes
The following are the major steps involved in designing and constructing custom homes. We hope this overview will give you an idea of what to expect during your initial consultation. Our homeowner packet, which every client receives upon project commencement, contains more details.
Step 1: Plan Development (Medium to Large Projects)
For custom homes, significant renovations or remodels and home additions, the process begins with plan development. Once you have entered a design agreement, your designer will work with you to realize your vision and develop a detailed plan. Typically, this will require a few in-person meetings and some collaboration via phone or Internet. We will discuss your requirements, preferences and budget upfront, then develop project plans based on these factors.
Step 2: Specifications
Once we have preliminary plans for your custom home, we will develop a specification list summarizing what materials are to be used. These include siding, roofing, windows, interior wall and ceiling finishes, flooring, bath fixtures, cabinets, etc.
Step 3: Pricing
We will price your project according to the preliminary plans and specifications list. Then, we will present a formal proposal for your review, which includes plans, contract and any addenda. We will meet and go over every detail to ensure we both have a clear picture of the proposed project. This sometimes requires a couple of meetings if any changes are needed.
Step 4: Contract Signing
Once both parties have signed the plans and contract, we will schedule your pre-construction meeting.
Step 5: Pre-Construction Meeting
In our experience, this meeting is one of the most important steps to produce impeccable custom homes and delighted customers. It sets up the communication systems and expectations and introduces important parties to each other and the project. Attending this meeting are members of our production staff, including your custom home builder, primary sub-contractors and/or material suppliers, your design consultant and you. The plans, contract and other pertinent information, are reviewed to ensure everyone involved has a clear understanding of the project.
Your homeowner manual, which we will provide at this meeting, contains a wealth of information. We will also fill out a form together stating your desired job site management specifications. For example, we will designate areas for material storage, waste containers and worker parking. We will also go through acceptable work hours, material recycling, alarm systems, tentative dates for future meetings and other scheduling details. This meeting aims to get everyone on the same page and promptly identify and address possible challenges. It is extremely beneficial for the success of the project and all involved.
Step 6: Production
Our goal is to give you a great experience from start to finish. Our systems are set up so all involved understand the project well before it begins and know how to proceed if unexpected events occur.
You can be as involved or uninvolved in your project as you are comfortable with. We are happy to communicate by phone, fax, US mail and e-mail. Of course, If you are in the area, you are always welcome to stop by our office as well. We also encourage you to use our website to receive updates and current information on your project.
We will typically have a walk-through after the structure is watertight and lockable, just before installation of electrical and mechanical systems. During this meeting, we’ll answer additional questions, take another look at project objectives and make any selections that still need to be made. Then, just before project completion, we will walk through once more to make sure that nothing is missed.
Step 7: Closing
When all is done, you will receive a customer feedback memo, final statement for your records, waiver of lien and an authenticated certificate of warrantee.
We will check in with you at three and six months after completion to ensure you are completely satisfied with everything. As part of our effort to uphold our reputation as north Wisconsin’s premier source for exquisite custom homes, we make great efforts to maintain long-term relationships with all our customers.
Schedule a Consultation With a Custom Home Builder
Tice Construction Inc is a full-service design/build contractor. We take pride in creating exceptional custom homes and look forward to helping you make your dreams a reality. When you are ready to discuss your ideas, submit the contact form or call us at (715) 635-4664.