FAQs
Yes, we often replace wood siding with a fiber cement product, usually James Hardie siding. We can keep the look similar to the existing style or create a whole new look. We also can repair or replace stucco siding, cedar shingles and wooden siding.
As a foundation contractor and structural specialist we can take it from here. We will help get the permits and put together a plan to get the work you need done. We will communicate with the engineer to ensure the drawings are implemented as intended. We will schedule and meet with building inspectors and engineering inspections to get your final inspection passed with ease.
We recommend hiring a general contractor for several reasons. General contractors have established relationships with subcontractors with whom they can coordinate if needed, and they are experienced in keeping projects moving while maintaining quality work.
Additionally, subcontractors generally prefer working with general contractors, as opposed to working directly with homeowners. This means that finding a trustworthy general contractor can keep your project flowing smoothly from start to finish.
Ask your friends and family! Personal recommendations are the best way to find a local contractor you can trust with your exterior or structural project. If no one in your local circle has any recommendations, the next best tool is Google. A quick Google search will uncover a list of local companies that you can narrow down based on their online reviews, website, and reachability.
It’s important to find a contractor you can trust. You can vet contractors by asking for copies of their licenses, verifying that they are insured, reading online reviews, visiting past job sites, and asking about other remodeling projects they’ve done that are similar to yours. If you’re in the Bay Area, we’d love to work with you!
You might have specific questions to ask in addition to these, but here are the basic questions we recommend asking any potential contractor up front.
- Are you licensed and insured?
- Have you had any projects similar to mine?
- Do you have an in-house crew, or do you sub out workers?
- What processes do you have to ensure my project stays on schedule?
- How do you ensure quality control?
- What steps do you take to be respectful of my home and yard?
- What is your current workload like?
- How will you ensure that my project is completed according to schedule?
Hiring a licensed and insured contractor ensures that they are qualified and capable of taking on your project. It also limits liability and reduces the risk of hiring someone who will cut corners to get things done faster. Always ask to see proof of license and insurance before signing any contracts. (If you are wondering, our license number is #1078733.)
We are happy to help determine if a permit is necessary for your project. Structural projects with drawings will require a permit and we can guide you through the process of acquiring the correct permits. Structural upgrades usually require several inspections by different agencies with whom we will coordinate, all the way through to final approval.
Yes, we have worked with many clients who choose to live onsite during construction. It’s important to have realistic expectations of the challenges of this. Working from home may be more of a challenge as the work is usually noisy during normal working hours. We often recommend an offsite storage unit to ensure that all items that are normally stored in the area will be cleared away and protected from dust and dirt.
We offer pre-construction agreements in order to explore any areas that look like they may be hiding something. For other items, we include allowances in our Construction Agreement to give you an approximate cost. Beyond that, we will keep you updated and involved in the decision making process as construction progresses.
Temporary shoring refers to the process of installing support systems to stabilize a structure during construction, renovation, or repair. It is commonly used in structural and exterior home projects to prevent collapses or structural failures while work is being performed. Shoring can involve using materials such as steel beams, adjustable posts, or wooden supports to brace walls, ceilings, or foundations.
Why You Might Need Temporary Shoring:
- Safety: Temporary shoring ensures the safety of workers and the integrity of the structure during construction activities.
- Structural Modifications: If you’re adding or removing walls, expanding a foundation, or replacing beams, shoring provides essential support until permanent reinforcements are installed.
- Emergency Repairs: Shoring is critical in stabilizing damaged structures caused by natural disasters, water damage, or accidents.
- Load Management: It helps redistribute weight and prevent undue stress on other parts of the building during the construction or repair process.
For projects involving structural changes to your home, temporary shoring is an essential step to protect both the property and everyone involved in the work. At Matthew Kelly Construction, we specialize in safe and effective shoring solutions tailored to your project’s unique needs.
“Exactly what we wanted – on time, on budget, and great quality. I highly recommend him.”
“Very personable and professional and the quality of work is highly exceptional.”
“Matthew has a great work ethic and is so easy to communicate with. The work is great quality.”
“Matt is amazing! He is friendly, responsive,
and personable.”
“Matthew was conscientious and hardworking. Replaced my fence on time and did a great job.”