FAQs

• Should I build a main floor addition, or should I add a second story?

  The first thing to consider is the residence and the property on which it’s located. If your property is within a city or town, there could be restrictions, such as the square footage of the buildings allowed on the property as a percentage of the land available. With most property in the Edmonton area, a property owner is allowed to build site coverage of 40%, of which 28% is the main residence and the other 12% would be for outbuildings such as a garage. In most situations this percentage is well within what most homes are originally designed for, although with lot setbacks and side yard setbacks, driveways and easements, it takes careful planning to fit the home within the existing lot, especially if the lot is pie shaped or irregular. Other things to take into consideration might be living in a mature neighborhood where you may face demands to conform to existing architecture or the historical flavor of the neighborhood. Once you have determined how much room is available to develop, it makes sense to sit down with your family and discuss your family's needs, wants, and other factors that you will have to consider when planning an addition. Read More...

• Do you use a written contract?

  Yes. A contract should be mutually beneficial to all parties. Therefore, everything is completed in writing so there are no surprises. The benefit of a contract is that all the project details are spelled out, whether it is the scope of the work to be performed, the amount of time in which the contract is to be fulfilled, or the terms of payment. The contract also outlines the duties and responsibilities of each party. At one time, everyone relied on a handshake to seal the contract. Today we still have a handshake, but because there are so many details, it's important to get it in writing. Not all contracts are the same. However, each one should include: Scope of work Timetable of start date and completion Cost When progress payments are to be made Warranties, and mechanisms to arbitrate disagreements. With these details, a customer can be assured that their best interests and those of the contractor are taken into consideration. Read More...

• Should we continue to live in the building while it’s under construction?

  The size of the renovation and the impact that it will have on your living and sleeping quarters will ultimately dictate whether or not you can continue to live there through the construction process. With barrier free renovations it may be possible to do the required work in stages, allowing you to stay in the home during the renovations. Read More...

• Are there elements that should be considered in every barrier free renovation?

  When retrofitting a barrier free space there are a number of elements that must be considered: Access to other areas of the home If the home is all on one floor then it’s important to clear away obstacles to clear flow. You want wider doorways, no cabinets or counters that stick out, thresholds that allow smooth movement from one room to another, or to the outside. If the home has a second floor and a basement and access is required, do you consider a chairlift? What other options might you have, such as relocating a washer-dryer from the basement to the main floor? Exterior Is there easy access to the front door, or to a garden, or a garage? Is there a level walkway available from the home to the sidewalk? Is a ramp required? What about railings? These are some of the issues that should be addressed Read More...

• Should I come up with designs before contacting you to start my barrier free renovation?

  It's not only important to consider you current needs for accessibility, but it's also important to anticipate your future needs. Nord Alta Construction will discuss each room in your house - kitchens, bedrooms, bathroom, entrances, and more - to make sure your renovation covers all areas of accessibility for your family. Read More...