WNC General Contractor’s Blog

When it comes to creating or updating your business space, having the right commercial building contractor makes all the difference. Whether you’re starting from the ground up or giving your current space a fresh new look, Dunlap Construction’s expert team will get the job done right every time.

When you’re starting a new construction project, one of the most important steps happens before the first hammer swings is the contract. At Dunlap Construction, we know contracts can seem a little intimidating at first, but they’re actually your best friend when it comes to keeping your project organized, clear, and stress-free. Let’s break it down, so you can understand how construction contracts work.

In the world of construction, timing is everything. A well-planned building construction schedule can mean the difference between a smooth, successful project and one full of costly delays. At Dunlap, we know that staying on schedule isn’t just about working fast – it’s about working smart, planning ahead, and communicating clearly every step of the way.

When you’re searching for the right construction business to bring your vision to life, it’s about more than bricks, beams, and blueprints – it’s about finding a team you can trust. At Dunlap, we believe every project should start with a strong foundation of honesty, communication, and craftsmanship. Whether it’s a new commercial build, a renovation, or an office upgrade, our goal is to make the process as seamless and stress-free as possible.

Designing or renovating office spaces isn’t just about walls and desks, it’s about creating an environment where people want to work, feel comfortable, and do their best. When you’re planning your next project, keeping an eye on the right amenities can make all the difference. Here are some of the ones that always top the list – and what you might want to consider including.

When it comes to building or remodeling, the contractor you choose can make or break your project. The right team can bring your vision to life smoothly, while the wrong choice can lead to delays, budget problems, and a whole lot of frustration. At Dunlap Construction, we’ve seen it all – and we want to help you avoid the common mistakes people make when hiring a contractor.

If you’ve been thinking about updating your retail space, expanding an office, or giving your entire restaurant a new look, one of the first questions you’ll ask is: “What’s the remodel cost going to be?” While every project is unique, a little planning can help you set realistic expectations and avoid surprises along the way.

In the fast-paced world of food service, every second counts. Whether it’s getting plates out of the kitchen faster, streamlining customer flow, or making better use of your space, operational efficiency can make the difference between a good restaurant and a great one. If your layout or setup is slowing you down, it might be time to consider a renovation.

If you’ve ever taken on a construction project -big or small- you might have heard the term “change order” thrown around. But what exactly is a change order, and why is it important to understand before your project kicks off? We believe in keeping things clear and transparent, especially when it comes to costs and timelines. So here’s a quick, easy breakdown of what a change order is and how it can impact your project.

Planning a renovation can be exciting, but also a little scary. One question always comes up first: What’s the renovation cost going to be? At Dunlap Construction, we know that understanding costs upfront helps clients feel confident and prepared. So let’s break down what goes into a renovation budget and how you can get the most value from your investment.

Constructing a medical facility isn’t your average build. From specialized equipment to strict safety codes, these projects require a whole different level of precision, planning, and experience. At Dunlap Construction, we’ve spent years working on healthcare-related construction, and we know that success lies in the details. Let’s talk more about the unique demands of this type of construction.

At Dunlap Construction, we know that every successful build starts long before the first hammer swings. Whether you’re planning a commercial renovation, a custom build, or a major expansion, asking the right questions early in the process can make a world of difference. The goal? Project success from start to finish – on time, on budget, and with no surprises. Let’s go over a few questions to consider before breaking ground.

When it comes to commercial spaces, first impressions matter – and functionality matters even more. At Dunlap Construction, we specialize in remodel services that help businesses across industries upgrade their spaces without the stress. From restaurants and medical offices to professional workspaces, we know how to remodel with purpose, style, and efficiency.

At Dunlap Construction, we know that commercial spaces are more than just buildings – they’re where businesses grow, teams collaborate, and clients are welcomed. Whether you’re updating an office, building out a retail space, or taking on a full-scale renovation, our remodeling and construction services are designed to help your business thrive.

If there’s one thing we can count on in the construction world, it’s change. The construction industry is constantly shifting – whether it’s due to economic ups and downs, supply chain hiccups, or sudden price swings in materials. At Dunlap, we’ve learned that navigating this kind of unpredictability isn’t just about reacting fast, it’s about smart planning.

Have you ever thought about updating your current building instead of starting from scratch? A retrofit can be a good choice for many people who want to make their space more functional without investing in a new build. It involves enhancing existing structures with new technologies and designs to boost efficiency, comfort, and sustainability. Let’s talk more about this building option.

When it comes to construction projects, it’s hard to avoid the topic of change orders. The truth is, it’s something we encounter fairly frequently, and it can be a necessary part of a build. We want to help you understand what they are, when they’re necessary, and why it’s a good idea to minimize them. 

When planning for a construction project, one of the most important – and often overlooked – elements is contingency. If you’re not familiar with the term, contingency refers to the money set aside in the project budget to cover unexpected costs or unforeseen issues that may arise during construction. At Dunlap Construction, we believe in being transparent about the importance of contingency so that you can plan your project with confidence and avoid surprises down the road.

Renovating your office can breathe new life into your workspace and even increase the productivity of your employees. But, before you get the ball rolling, it’s important to get an accurate estimate of the costs to avoid unexpected financial strain. Ultimately, the cost of an office renovation is influenced largely by several factors, and understanding these will help you plan and budget effectively.

Remodeling a restaurant is an exciting opportunity to improve function, enhance customer experiences, and refresh your brand. However, careful planning is essential to ensure the remodel meets your expectations and business goals. After all, you want to get the best return on your investment possible. We’re talking about five important factors to keep in mind when going through this process to help you get the most bang for your buck.

When embarking on a construction project, one of the first steps is navigating the bid process. For many clients, this stage can seem overwhelming, but understanding how it works can help you make informed decisions and set the foundation for a successful project. Here’s an overview of the construction bid process and what to expect when working with Dunlap Construction.

Winter brings unique challenges to construction projects, from freezing temperatures to unpredictable weather conditions. While the season may pose some obstacles, with proper planning and expert management, construction can continue efficiently and safely. Here’s what you need to know about how winter weather impacts construction and how these challenges can be mitigated.

A final walk through marks the culmination of your construction project, an exciting milestone where you see your vision fully realized. At Dunlap, we guide you through this crucial step to ensure your project meets all expectations and is ready for use. Here’s what you can expect during the process.

Restoration work on historic buildings is a vital service that bridges the past and the present, preserving the charm and cultural significance of our architectural heritage. At Dunlap Construction, we bring years of expertise to this specialized field, ensuring that every project honors its historical essence while meeting modern safety and functionality standards. Let’s learn more about this type of work and the unique challenges. 

When it comes to construction, setting a realistic budget is one of the most important steps you can take to ensure a successful project. Knowing how to manage costs is key to getting the most value for your investment. A well-thought-out budget helps you avoid surprises, stay on track, and ensure that you get the quality and results you’re looking for – without overspending. Here are some things to consider.

When starting a commercial construction project, understanding the timeline is essential for successful planning and execution. Whether you’re building a new office, expanding your retail space, or renovating an existing facility, a clear timeline helps you stay on track, manage expectations, and avoid costly delays. The reality is, many factors can affect project timelines. Here’s what you need to know to plan effectively.

Thinking about giving your restaurant a fresh look? A renovation can breathe new life into your space, attract more customers, and enhance their dining experience. But before you dive in, there are a few key things to keep in mind to ensure your project runs smoothly. Here are four essential tips to consider when planning your restaurant renovation.

In commercial construction, once we break ground on the project site – that’s where all the action happens. Managing it effectively can make or break the entire endeavor. A well-managed site is truly what separates a great contractor from the rest, and it’s crucial for overall construction success. At Dunlap, we take this part of the job seriously as it reflects our values of quality workmanship, communication, and attention to detail.

Before any construction project can begin, site work is essential to prepare the land for building. This step involves transforming raw land into a stable, ready-to-build site. Without it, we won’t have the foundation necessary for overall project success. Let’s talk more about this important phase and what it entails.

A well-defined scope of work is crucial to the success of any construction project. Its impact on the timeline and budget cannot be overstated. Although it’s not a very exciting part of the construction process, getting clear about the scope plays an important role in ensuring your project runs smoothly and meets your expectations. 

Dunlap began as a small residential contractor in 1979, but over time we grew into other types of construction work. Throughout the past 40+ years, we have enjoyed serving the WNC community to meet a wide variety of construction needs. If there’s one thing you need to know about us, it’s that no matter the the type of project, we approach it with meticulous planning and execution. As a result, we have become one of the top contractors in the region. Let’s discuss some of the work we do here.

Deciding to renovate your office building is a big decision. It will involve a significant investment of time and money, and you want to make sure that the final result addresses all of your concerns with the space. That’s why we recommend taking your time with the preparation and really thinking about what your goals are. This can take months – even years! But how do you know when you’re ready to start? Here is a checklist.

We talk a lot about remodeling and renovation, but another option for updating your commercial building is called retrofitting. This specific type of construction can make a dramatic difference while still being remarkably affordable. It’s a great choice for those short on time and budget, but also for anyone that wants to reduce waste and/or preserve historic qualities of a space. Let’s talk more about it.

When you’re thinking about a remodeling project, one of the first steps is to consider how much money you’re going to allot for the job. Sometimes the scope of work simply won’t be able to be accomplished with the budget you have in mind. Before you begin meeting with contractors, it’s a good idea to go through the numbers and come up with a rough estimate so that you can more easily establish a reasonable construction remodeling budget. Let’s go over some key points to consider.

Starting a construction project can be an exciting time for a client – albeit a bit scary as well. Expectations are high, and we take customer satisfaction seriously. One of the keys to our success is our pre-construction process. During this time, we go through several steps that help to get the project off on the right foot so to speak. For example, to keep projects on schedule and avoid delays due to material lead times, we spend time upfront in procurement management. So, what exactly is this important step? Let’s find out.

Deciding to remodel your commercial property is a big decision. It will likely involve some downtime in addition to significant funds, so you want to be sure you’re in the right time and place to tackle this investment. When thinking about this type of project, there are a lot of factors to consider. But don’t worry, we’ve got some helpful tips. Here are 3 things you’ll definitely want to think through before getting started.

Choosing the right commercial construction company for your project is no easy task. There are multiple choices, and with such a large investment, you want to be sure you’ll be treated right and get the quality build you deserve. If you’re looking for a contractor, there are some questions that can help you narrow down your choices. You can use these as a starting point in a consultation meeting to help you separate the good from the bad.

It seems like everything is more expensive these days, and that includes both material and labor costs in construction. Fortunately, there are smart ways to stick to your budget and get the most bang for your buck. At Dunlap, we strive to provide both high quality work and value, which can be achieved by knowing how to reduce costs on a construction project. Here are a few tips.

If you’re in the market for a general contractor, look no further than Dunlap. Our portfolio is wide – with projects large and small, commercial and even residential. What started in 1979 as a small family business doing mostly residential grew to become one of the most well-known builders in WNC. And, we are proud to say we are still family owned and operated. We work on a variety of construction projects, so there’s a good chance that we can help you with yours.

Renovation is a great way to improve the function of your business without the hassle of moving. But, the portrayal of renovation on tv shows or social media can be misleading. Many times people have ideas about the renovation process that aren’t exactly accurate because of what they’ve seen or heard from others. So, we’re busting some of the most common renovation myths – giving you a realistic picture of what to expect during the process. 

We get it, construction has a bit of a bad reputation for taking longer than expected. And if you’re thinking about starting a renovation or new build, this can be off-putting. After all, you can’t put your life completely on hold without a reasonable timeline for completion. While some delays are truly out of our hands, there are a few ways to minimize other common delays. Here are a few mistakes to avoid if you want to preserve your construction timeline.

Construction is inherently risky, which is why here at Dunlap we take safety seriously. When you have the right systems in place, you can mitigate the risks and create a safer environment. Our goal is to not only perform high quality work on time, and on budget, but to also do that work without people getting injured during the process. This is important on new builds and renovations alike, and especially on projects where parts of the building are still operational, like hospitals. Let’s take a look at how we prioritize construction safety.

Any successful construction project needs a skilled and experienced team, but perhaps most importantly is the presence of good construction management. This part of the process involves taking a bird’s eye view of the whole scope, organizing the details, and keeping things on track. At Dunlap, we prioritize both the management of the building process in addition to a highly skilled construction team because we know that success depends on both. What exactly does good management look like? Let’s discuss it.

It can be hard to decide to renovate your business or property, especially when you consider the downtime and expense. But, there comes a point when it might be necessary – the pros outweigh the cons. So, how do you know when it’s time to hire renovation contractors? Here are 3 tips to help you decide if the time is right. 

If you’re planning a remodel in 2024, you’ll have a lot of decisions to make. Perhaps one of the most important ones is your choice of contractor. After all, how many horror stories have you heard from friends or family who have had a nightmare experience with their contractor? You’re investing time and money into a remodel, and you want to make sure you’ve got the best partner for the job. How do you choose the right one from a list of remodeling contractors? Let’s go over some factors to consider when narrowing down the prospects and making the final decision.

As we enter our 45th year in business, it’s hard to believe just how many different kinds of projects we’ve been a part of in this corner of Western North Carolina. We have been so grateful to live and work in this beautiful community and are honored to be a top local contractor. We are a full service contractor committed to customer satisfaction with quality work. For any of your general construction needs, choosing Dunlap means working with a partner you can trust. 

During our many years in this business, we’ve come to know a few things things. One of those is that there is no substitute for quality construction materials. When we take on a project, we want it to stand the test of time. That’s why we make sure that we are using the best materials the budget allows. Aside from durability, there are other benefits to choosing high-quality building materials. Let’s discuss some of them below.

When it comes to construction, Dunlap pretty much does it all. We work on large and small projects, commercial and residential, old and new. We can handle all of your general construction needs. Our decades of experience in nearly every aspect of construction truly earns us the title “jack of all trades,” and we take pride in offering such a wide range of expertise to our clients. 

It can be hard to decide when to tackle a construction project, especially if it involves downtime at your place of business. If you’ve been thinking about renovating or remodeling your commercial building, we’ve got a few tips to help you decide. When properly timed, a renovation or remodel can be well worth the headache of going through construction. Here are some questions to ask yourself that can give you some clarity. 

In construction, there’s a fair amount of unpredictability. And unfortunately, that unpredictability often costs money. As industry veterans, we’ve learned to cope with these issues by planning well and controlling the parts of the process we can. One of the biggest budget busters we try to avoid is letting the construction schedule get off track. Proper scheduling allows us to get your project done on time while also utilizing some flexibility to handle any issues that come up. Let’s learn more about the importance of this process.

Safety on a construction site is perhaps the most important part of a successful project. Of course, everyone wants a project that finishes on time and on budget, but the safety of our team and the client comes first. We take calculated measures to ensure the safest conditions possible, and our record speaks for itself. Here are some of the top ways we prioritize safety. 

When looking for a partner to help you with your next build, it can be hard to narrow down the options to only high-quality building contractors. With so many companies out there, how do you know which ones are reputable? Which ones will do the job right? We can help you understand what to look for. If your potential contractor shows these signs, you’re probably in good hands.

When you think about construction, what probably comes to mind is an active work site – complete with heavy equipment and huge piles of dirt. The truth is that a lot of the construction process happens behind the scenes before the digging even starts. Construction planning is a critical part of any project, and the end result depends heavily on doing this well. At Dunlap, we call this stage “pre construction,” and it consists of six steps, each one as important as the next.

At Dunlap, we’ve been fortunate to work with countless medical facilities and offices in the WNC area. This type of construction is a bit different from other construction types and requires special considerations during the process. There are unique guidelines, codes, and challenges that go along with healthcare-related construction. As experts in this field, we have just the right experience and qualifications to handle these particular projects. Let’s discuss the main concerns.

If it seems like we write a lot about cost control – it’s because we do! This is one of the primary concerns of both the client and us (the contractor). No one wants to be a budget buster! In many aspects, the costs of construction are out of our control, but there are areas where we can take steps to ensure the best outcome. These are principles we operate by daily and have proven to be effective for over 40 years.

There are many factors that contribute to a decision to tackle a remodel – especially when it comes to a commercial space. You might remodel your home based on personal preference, function, and resale value. But there are somewhat different considerations for an office building, retail space, or other commercial location. Let’s explore these and help you decide if you’re ready for a remodel.

Even a small construction project can take significant time. Although it’s very important, the pre-construction planning phase can feel like a lifetime when you’re excited to break ground. Then, finally, the project is underway. After the initial excitement, this too can start to feel like forever when you’re in the thick of it. And then suddenly you’re nearing the end of your construction project, so what happens now? What can you expect when the construction phase is complete?

Construction project management is a difficult task – with so many moving parts and things happening simultaneously, it’s a big job. That’s why working with an experienced project manager is so important to success. In fact, it can really make or break your project (and budget). At Dunlap, we have decades of experience in overseeing both small and large projects across nearly all sectors of construction. When you work with us, you can be sure that you’re working with the best in the business.

If you’ve watched any of those renovation shows on TV, you’ll be familiar with the following scenario. Someone is tearing down drywall when a very expensive issue is revealed. This budget-busting problem means sacrifices will have to be made in order to keep the budget intact. Sound familiar? While unexpected surprises can be a part of any build, we do have some tips for you, as the client, to help keep your project budget under control.

When you hire a contractor, it’s a big decision. Even a small project costs time and money that you want to put to good use. You’re putting your trust in the contractor to do a quality job. At Dunlap, our mission is to consistently provide the highest quality workmanship. We want to earn our clients’ trust, and we know that’s no easy feat. But our 3-step system is designed to ensure success.

When it comes to healthcare facilities, performing construction work has a unique set of challenges. Whether it’s new construction or remodeling, it’s important to choose a contractor that has the experience and qualifications to do the job. We’ve been working with our local hospital systems and medical offices for decades, honing our skills in this specific type of construction. Let’s take a look at some of the challenges of healthcare construction, and how we expertly tackle them.

At Dunlap, we take customer satisfaction seriously. In fact, it’s one of our top priorities, along with high-quality workmanship and doing business with integrity. We believe that being service-minded almost always leads to project success. And, you could say we know a little something about it after 40+ years in the business. When you work with us, your project becomes our project – and you become a part of the family. 

When it comes to hiring a contractor for your home remodel or renovation, you’ll want to be sure you’re asking the right questions. It’s easy to be tempted by a low quote or flashy promises, but how do you know if you’re working with someone reputable? Choosing poorly could mean a bad outcome, budget-busting mistakes, or worse. Here are 5 key questions to ask potential home contractors before you actually sign on the dotted line.

We’ve all heard those stories from friends and family about a nightmare contractor and project that went haywire. No one wants to end up in that position, as it causes undue stress and can end up affecting the bottom line. How do you find a building partner you can trust? Dunlap has been serving the WNC community for decades, with our core mission at the front and center of each client interaction. We aim to provide the highest quality workmanship and client satisfaction through our attention to detail, communication, honesty, and fairness. We believe in building client relationships on trust, which means we do what we say we are going to do and communicate about any deviation from the plan. As a result, we are among the top commercial remodelers in the area. 

If you’re planning a build, it might be helpful to understand the process of getting a construction estimate. Not every contractor has the same method, and some are more accurate than others. At Dunlap, we want you to have the most accurate information at hand to make decisions about your build, which is why we offer several types of estimates to our clients. Let’s take a look at our offerings and how the process works.

Over the past 40+ years, Dunlap has expanded our construction work into nearly every sector. We have been fortunate to grow alongside WNC, working on new construction as well as remodeling historic buildings all over this region. In addition, we have become a go-to partner for local healthcare construction, a specialty we don’t take lightly. When it comes to this type of construction, there are extra considerations that must be accounted for, and not every contractor is up for the job. 

When it comes to a construction project, it almost seems like delays are inevitable. After all, there are so many moving parts on any given build that anticipating a hiccup-free result seems unrealistic. But, there are tools you can use to decrease the likelihood of common delays and to get back on track if something does come up. A good construction plan is our favorite tool for getting projects done on time. 

Have you decided to finally tackle that building renovation? The first step will be to find the right construction partner to help! We know that building renovations can be stressful. You want to ensure that the new renovations will improve your business, working conditions, and/or bottom line. And, you likely want to minimize downtime. Choosing the right contractor for the job will make the whole process easier. 

When it comes to the success of your project, the number one factor is good construction project management. That’s right, this choice will not only affect your bottom line, but will definitely have an impact on your overall satisfaction with the end result. Why is project management so important? Construction is an unpredictable, volatile industry. Prices go up and down, materials go in and out of stock. There are a lot of factors you simply have no control over. Working with an experienced project manager who can handle these ups and downs makes the difference between success and failure. 

It certainly seems like everything is expensive right now. Just take a look at your most recent grocery bill for a very real example. Despite inflation trending downward heading into 2023, we still see high prices on construction materials, as well as shortages as supply chains struggle to keep things moving. How will these factors affect construction projects in 2023?

As we become more and more aware of our impact on the environment, many business owners are looking for ways to make their commercial builds more energy efficient. With the right mindset, you can make small but impactful changes to your project that increase efficiency over time. This will not only save you money in energy costs, but it is also better for the environment. That’s what we call a win-win!

Many things make a good contractor like the quality of work, communication, and reliability. But let’s not forget the importance of safety on the job. Prioritizing safety at all construction sites protects both workers and customers and contributes to the overall satisfaction of the project. Let’s discuss the importance of safety measures on a job site and the steps we take to keep risks to a minimum.

When planning a construction project, the last thing you want to think about is potential delays. Unfortunately, delays are often a part of construction for one reason or another. Some can be anticipated and some are unwelcome surprises. We’re discussing some of the most common reasons for building construction delays and what you can do to avoid them.

Don’t you want your next construction project to be done right? That’s why finding a high-quality contractor is so important. After all, you’re making a significant investment in your home/business! How can you be sure you’re working with a reliable, reputable builder? Hiring a contractor can seem daunting, but we have some tips to make it a little easier. 

With prices on materials still high and long delays in procurement, how can you keep your building budget on track? An experienced contractor will be able to navigate these uncertain times using a large network of suppliers and making educated suggestions about material swaps. Even though it costs more to build now, there are ways to keep your building budget from breaking the bank. Read on for a few helpful tips. 

Not all companies operating in the construction industry have the right qualifications or experience for your job. When it comes to finding a highly qualified contractor, there are a few things you want to look for. These qualities signal that the contractor in question has the experience necessary to get the job done right. In fact, we’d go so far as to say these are deal breakers! Choosing your contractor doesn’t have to be overly stressful. Using these guidelines, you’ll be able to narrow down the choices and feel confident in your final decision.

When it comes to construction, there are a lot of variables that are hard to control. Material pricing, delays in product acquisition, weather, and other issues affect your project’s bottom line. At Dunlap, we have learned that the best way to handle these sometimes unpredictable parts of the construction process is to meticulously plan the things we can control. One of those things is your choice of commercial general contractors. This is the first step in the building process and one you do have control over. What are some things to look for during the hiring process?

Thinking about remodeling? Choosing a contractor can really make or break your project! After all, your time and money are valuable. You don’t want to be living or working in a construction zone indefinitely. Fortunately, you don’t have to look far to find a quality contractor. Dunlap offers a variety of remodeling services. With an excellent track record and over 40 years of experience, you can be sure your project is in the right hands.  

As your business changes and grows, you might find yourself looking for commercial remodeling. Maybe you need more space or a different layout to maximize your operations. Remodeling typically involves heavy structural changes, and we definitely recommend working with a contractor for this type of project. Fortunately, Dunlap has extensive experience in commercial remodeling and has the know-how to get your project done on time and on budget.

Over the 40+ years we have been in business, Dunlap has grown to offer a wide variety of construction services across Western North Carolina. We started in 1979 with primarily residential construction, and have since added other types of construction like commercial, municipal, medical, and more to our portfolio. We have become a trusted partner to countless business owners, local hospital systems, and homeowners. Let’s talk more about the services we offer and how we can help you get started on your next project.

We have worked with countless clients across nearly every sector to see their construction plans from paper to reality. Over the years, we have honed our process to ensure each project is handled with the detail and expertise it deserves. From beginning to end, you’ll feel confident that we understand your vision and can execute your project to the highest standards. 

It’s no secret that construction material costs are still up from pre-pandemic numbers. Most sources say that prices will continue to be high throughout 2022. While this may be a setback for anyone planning a renovation or new build, Dunlap still has the tools to complete your project on time – and on budget. With decades of experience and a network of suppliers and subcontractors, we are able to complete jobs even under the most challenging circumstances. What do these high material costs mean for your project? Is now a good time to build?

With material prices soaring and other commodities like gas and food prices on the rise, it might be tempting to hire the cheapest contractor for your next project. However, if they are not a licensed contractor, it could end up costing you in the long run. We always recommend hiring an appropriately licensed contractor for the job because it protects you and your project from costly issues down the road. 

When you find something you like, you stick with it, right? Our clients come back to us time and time again for that exact reason! For business construction, we are your go-to contractor- whether it’s new construction, remodeling, or restoration. We have worked with countless local companies over the years to help their space evolve with their business. 

When you’re considering making changes to your existing space, it’s important to consider the scope of work. This will be the main difference between remodel and renovation. While these terms sound pretty similar, many people use them interchangeably incorrectly. Let’s discuss the differences between remodeling and renovating, and which one might fit the bill for your next project. 

As veterans in the construction industry of over 40 years, we have learned a thing or two about project management. Our tried and true process for keeping a construction project on track involves 3 specific steps. We have honed this system over decades, and it keeps our clients coming back to us time and time again. 

If you’re experiencing whiplash from the pricing of housing materials like lumber, steel, and even paint – you’re not alone. To say that 2022 has already proven to be plagued with volatile pricing would be an understatement. Unfortunately, supply chain issues affect the construction industry severely. From long lead times to skyrocketing prices, we are dealing with it all. Luckily, we have the skill to navigate these murky waters. We are still committed to getting your job done on time, and on budget. 

When you decide to pursue a remodel, you want to choose the right remodeling contracting company. This decision may very well make or break your project – or your budget. So, how do you know who to work with? We have some tips to help you make a solid choice.

Choosing the right contractor for the job is quite possibly the most important project decision you’ll make. If you’re looking for commercial construction contractors to bid on your next project, we have a few tips.

Supply chain and labor shortages are affecting building costs across the nation, especially in popular areas like Western North Carolina. In fact, many people may be considering pausing or stopping a build due to high prices and a volatile market. But, Dunlap has weathered storms like this before. You can count on us to manage your project during the most unpredictable times. Here are 4 ways we ensure that your project stays within budget, even if prices are going up.

As supply chain issues and labor shortages continue into 2022, it’s safe to say that the past few years have provided significant challenges for us as a trusted local builder – and for our communities. As always, Dunlap strives to deliver top-quality work regardless of the circumstances. While the world may be unpredictable right now, you’ll always know what to expect from us. Here are just some of the ways we are rising to the challenges 2022 may bring.

What does it mean to be a full service contractor? What are some of the benefits? Dunlap offers the convenience of hiring one firm to handle your construction project from start to finish. Let’s discuss more about full service contracting and why you would want to seek it out. 

Over the past two years, it seems the requirements of commercial spaces have changed constantly. We have assisted countless businesses in addressing new recommendations with commercial remodeling. During unprecedented times, business owners can rely on experienced general contractors to help them navigate changing demands and ensure their build-out offers the flexibility they need. 

Working with a quality builder makes the difference between project success and project failure. Taking the time to do your due diligence up front will save you a major headache down the road – not to mention time and money. We’ve compiled a list of some of the top questions to ask commercial construction companies before you hire. This should help you narrow down your choices to experienced, qualified professionals.

Dunlap Construction has over 40 years of experience working with local businesses, homeowners, hospitals, and more in Western North Carolina. Our process is tried and true – and we stand by it. Clients come back to us time and time again because of our commitment to providing the most value and highest quality work. Before construction even begins, we conduct a thorough checklist of pre-construction services. One of these steps is value engineering. Let’s discuss why value engineering is so important to achieving success.

When it comes to your next construction project, you might be wondering if you can act as your own general contractor or if you should hire someone. While a do it yourself attitude can serve you well in many areas of your life, sometimes the help of a professional is warranted. What are some of the pros and cons you must consider when making this decision? Read on to find out.

After the construction process (which can be long and grueling), we know you are eager to take occupancy of your new or renovated building. However, we perform a few extra steps before that happens. Trust us – you don’t want your contractor to leave before a project closeout punch list. This best practice protects you from uncompleted or incorrect work.

Dunlap has been in the construction business for over 40 years. During that time, we developed the ability to adapt to ebbs and flows and notice patterns. Despite operating in a somewhat unpredictable industry, certain things stay the same. These are the construction delays we see throughout the construction industry, and here are our best tips to avoid them.

When considering a renovation for your commercial space, it’s common to be concerned about timing. A renovation might force you to close your doors for weeks or months. Renovations require time – and money. So, when is the best time to start construction? We have some tips to help you decide.

Every successful project with Dunlap starts with our comprehensive pre construction services. We believe this part of the process, while not necessarily action-packed, is absolutely crucial. What exactly is involved in pre construction services and how do these steps ensure your project is successful? Let’s find out!