FAQ

We’re here to make your remodeling experience as smooth as possible—starting with answers to your most common questions.

We've Got Your Answers

We know that remodeling your home is a big decision, and it can raise a lot of questions. To help make the process as smooth as possible, we’ve compiled answers to some of the most common questions homeowners ask. Whether you’re curious about timelines, costs, or the design process, we’re here to provide you with the information you need to feel confident and informed every step of the way. If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to reach out.

The timeline on your project depends on many factors. While we try our best to give you an accurate estimate of the timeline, there are still many factors out of our control. For example: weather, material delays, and unforeseen circumstances that we may run into while in the middle of production of your project are just a few that may happen. What may seem like a minor bump in the road can sometimes make a major bump in timeline.  However, you can rest assured that we will continue on your project once we start and avoid “job hopping”, and will stay in communication along the way.

The cost of your project depends on several factors. Are we remodeling one room, or several? Are we relocating mechanicals? What materials are you wanting to use? Questions like these are why our Design Build approach is so important. As the homeowner we want you to know what you are getting before you ever sign a construction agreement. 

At this time, we do not offer financing. We highly recommend having all financing secured before signing a construction agreement. 

Understanding the different phases of our remodeling process can help you feel confident as we move through your project. Here’s the breakdown of our three key agreements:

  • Design Agreement – This is the first step in our design-build process for larger projects. The design agreement includes room scans with 3D renderings, floor plans, elevation drawings, and two revisions to ensure we accurately capture your vision. This phase allows us to explore possibilities, refine the layout, and create a plan that aligns with your needs and style.
  • Budget Agreement – Once the design is finalized, we develop a budget proposal based on the layout, including allowances for materials and trade partner estimates. This agreement helps provide a clearer picture of the project cost before moving into final selections and bids. If the budget aligns with your expectations, we then proceed to the refine phase, where we collect final bids and select materials.
  • Construction Agreement – After all selections have been made and trade partner bids are finalized, we update the budget and present a final construction agreement. This contract locks in the details of the project scope, final pricing, and timeline. Once signed, we move into scheduling and production, bringing your remodel to life.

Each of these agreements is designed to ensure transparency and accuracy, so you know exactly what to expect at every stage of your project.

Yes! We are fully licensed and insured. Upon signing an agreement with us we will provide you with a copy of our certificate of insurance via Buildertrend. Additionally, if your project requires us to obtain a city permit you will find a copy of that in Buildertrend too. 

We provide a one year warranty on the work performed. While many of our material suppliers offer longer warranties, we guarantee our workmanship for one year after final completion. 

Many homeowners choose to live in their home during their remodel. We understand that living through a remodel can be a stressful time, and a huge interruption to your day-to-day life. Our team does everything we can to get your house back in operating condition in a timely manner. 

At Van Cleave Construction, Remodeling, and Design we go the extra mile when it comes to protecting your home. From floor protection and zipper walls, to temporary floor register covers and replacing your furnace filter. Our team understands that job site safety isn’t just for protecting us, but protecting you and your home too.  

Yes, however, we do charge a convenience fee for processing credit card transactions. We gladly accept payment in the form of a check or ACH via our project management system, Buildertrend. 

One of the advantages of working with our team is that you get to work with our experienced design team in our showroom. Our design team will help you carefully make all your selections to ensure a finished project that looks beautiful, and feels like you. Our showroom is located at 4209 Cook Rd in St. Joseph. 

Buildertrend is our Project Management software that has an online client portal that you will have access to once you’re under contract.  You can learn more about Buildertrend and how it makes communication, project management, and the design phase seamless in one location here.

Good communication is the foundation of every successful remodel.