Well, it all depends on your scope of work (i.e. moving walls, adding new exterior square footage, project description), time of the year you are remodeling and size of the new remodeling project. Replacing kitchen cabinet and counter tops can take about 2-3 weeks.  If you are knocking down or moving walls, the project can … Read more

A building permit basically ensures that your new construction is going through the proper channels in regards to building codes and construction guidelines.  This will normally require some sort of plan review by a city official, a building permit application, project description, permit fee’s and inspections by a building inspector.  I know that this  can … Read more

Since Hardie Siding is non-combustible, some insurance companies offer a discount while others do not. We suggest that you contact your local agent and ask if installing James Hardie Siding on your home will reduce your insurance premium. In any event, since it does not burn, your home will be safer.  Rhino Design Build just … Read more

Windows are an important part of your home’s aesthetics and one of the first things that people see from the exterior of the home.  Older windows simply are not as energy efficient as new windows today simply because technology has changed.  Windows can account for up to 25 percent of total house heat loss.  Replacing … Read more

What does going green mean? Going green is a popular phrase being used today, but not everyone know exactly what it means. Chances are, you have heard it referred to quite a lot. In essence, it refers to using various everyday methods to help save the world and its environment. Many people consider going green … Read more

I hear this from almost every new client I meet.  It is amazing to hear all the different excuses that are given as to why the contractor can’t show up that day.  I’m a contractor myself and have been working in San Antonio for my entire career.   I will be the first to admit that … Read more

Rhino Design Build gets this question quite often.  The answer is quite simple.  Start by answering this question:  What kind of a remodeling project am I considering?  (a bathroom remodel, a kitchen remodel, a room addition, upstairs addition, more square footage, tearing down walls to open up the floor plan)  Begin with making a list … Read more

A garage conversion can be one of the easiest and most affordable ways to add living space to a home without having to incur the cost of a new room addition. The foundation, walls and roof are already in place.  In many houses, a well-planned garage conversion can create a new family room, game room, … Read more

There are many different options that determine a payment schedule in the remodeling industry. Receiving some sort of down payment at contract signing is a standard when hiring a contractor for a home remodel project. A payment schedule should be part of the contract. Typical down payments are 25% to 33%. Sometimes even higher depending … Read more

Building a new detached garage can be a great way to get some additional storage space and get the cars  out of the driveway or street.  If you go with a steeper pitch on the roof, you can get some great attic storage space.  This is very useful and can allow you to get rid … Read more

A written contract be between you (the homeowner) and the contractor is an absolute MUST when you hire someone to do any kind of home remodeling or home renovation.  I have heard from many people that have hired contractors and never get a signed contract.  That absolutely blows my mind.  Construction is a very rough … Read more