How does the process work?
Every project – whether an addition, kitchen or bath remodel – follows the same sequence of steps. This helps you to understand exactly what is going to happen and in what order. Here’s how the process unfolds.
1. Pre-design
We create a set of preliminary drawings that helps us establish what you are looking for and functions as a starting point for the final working drawings. Our designer will prepare as many drawings as it takes to discover the solutions and look that you and your family are looking for.
2. Contract proposal
We develop a clear, easy to understand contract proposal that will outline the entire scope of the project, the timeline and cost.
3. Working drawings prepared
Once we have a signed contract we execute a complete set of working drawings for your project.
4. Design specification meeting
This is when we’ll ask you to make final decisions on materials and products.
5. Pre-construction meeting
The pre-construction meeting is held to discuss the entire scope of the project and what needs to be accomplished. Attendees are of course you, the homeowner, the MGD Lead Carpenter and MGD's President or Project Architect. We’ll establish a start date and discuss house rules, how we will operate and how we will enter and exit your home.
6. First day of construction begins
We will protect other areas of your home by setting up dust protection and protective coverings on flooring where appropriate. At this stage the project is underway.
7. Weekly meetings
Once a week the lead carpenter and MGD's President or Project Architect will meet with you to discuss the project, answer questions and work through any issues that may have emerged.
8. Final walk through
We will do a final inspection of the project with you to make sure everything is completed to your complete satisfaction.
Before You Choose:
Questions to Ask a Contractor
How do you find new business?
Good contractors – companies that do stellar work and understand how to build long lasting customer relationships – will have referrals and repeat business. Ask to speak to some customers. Ask to look at letters that satisfied customers have written. Click What People are Saying for a sampling of our customers.
Is a permit required for my addition, kitchen and bath remodel? Will you help secure the proper permits?
Permits are typically required. At MGD we secure those permits for you.Have you received any awards for your work?
Recognition is one way to determine if your contractor has the skills to deliver a world class finished product. MGD has been featured in many magazines and received numerous awards for our projects.Can you guarantee that the same person who begins the project will be the same person that finishes it?
Continuity of personnel is an important ingredient to ensure success. Stable, established firms provide this level of continuity. Many of our employees have been with us for decades and our founder, Michael Dent has lived in the community for over twenty years.
How do you handle change orders?
Changes are common in the remodeling industry but when handled poorly they can wreak havoc on budgets and on the final product. MGD will evaluate the change you would like to make, inform you in writing of the timeframe issues involved, the additional costs and ask you to sign the change order.
Do you use your own crew or do you use sub-contractors?
This is very important. MGD uses our own employees for design and carpentry work. We also work with trusted sub-contractors when necessary that have been with us for many years.
How will I choose the right products?
At MGD you’ll work with our staff architect and use our showroom to select custom products that meet your specifications. All designs are original, custom, and specific to each job. We make personal product recommendations to clients based on our knowledge and years of experience in the industry.
What kind of warranty will apply to this project?
MGD has a one-year material and two-year workmanship warranty.
Are you licensed and insured by the state?
MGD is licensed and insured in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C.
How long have you been in business, and what associations do you belong to?
MGD has been in business since 1983, and is a member of NARI, NKBA, and The Better Business Bureau.
