WNC General Contractor’s Blog

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!

As one of WNC’s top commercial builders, we have done projects across nearly all sectors. From medical construction to restaurants and office space, we utilize our expertise to provide quality construction services on both large and small projects. To make a big impact in your commercial or retail space, you don’t have to take it down to the studs and start over. We find that specific, intentional renovation choices make a huge difference in how your space looks and feels. Here are some tips on where to invest those renovation dollars.

Over our 40+ years in business, we have certainly weathered a few storms. But, it’s safe to say the past 18+ have been unprecedented. Between ensuring the health and safety of our team, our clients, and still meeting the construction needs of WNC amid supply and labor shortages, we have relied on our core values to get us through. We immediately stepped in to help our local businesses adapt to changing safety recommendations, remodeling restaurants and commercial spaces. Now, we are seeing a shift in new builds to reflect a “new normal” for offices around the country. What kind of office construction changes can you expect? Let’s explore these and what it means for post-pandemic office life.

Any construction company that has been in business as long as we have has weathered some storms when it comes to material supply and pricing. Small hiccups in the system can lead to surprisingly large delays or skyrocketing pricing. What’s more, we can’t always predict exactly when things will return to normal. Fortunately, we have ways of coping with volatile construction prices and navigating this current market.

The past year and a half has been challenging on many levels as people struggle to navigate the world safely. We have certainly seen the effects reflected in the ups and downs of construction supplies, both in availability and pricing. That said, through it all, we have continued to provide WNC with construction services to meet changing demands. Over the past 8 months, some construction trends have emerged that we expect to last for some time. Let’s explore some of these trends and why they might be here to stay. 

What started out as a small, residential construction business in 1979 has grown into most major sectors including commercial, medical, municipal, and more. Our experience over the last 40+ years allows us to work on projects all over WNC from our local hospitals to government buildings and restaurants. Take a look around downtown Hendersonville, and we’ll show you a Dunlap project on practically every corner!

After over 40 years serving the Western North Carolina region, we are still a top construction contractor for local businesses, hospitals, city buildings, and more. Why? Our customer-focused approach and family values allow us to build lasting relationships with our clients. 

Many people are taking this unusual and challenging year as a sign to improve their current space, either at work or at home. We are seeing an increase in additions for both businesses and homes as people seek to spread out. Remote workers may need to create a home office. Whatever your need, you’ll want a contractor that is up for the task. Here are five tips to help you find a contractor for your renovation service.

Between supply chain shortages and skyrocketing prices, the past year and a half really challenged all industries to adapt. In March 2020, companies began scrambling to set up remote working and finding ways to continue to operate safely just to stay afloat. While some industries have been hit harder than others, commercial construction has remained essential. One thing we know for sure, the impact of Covid-19 will be felt for years to come. Let’s discuss some of the ways the pandemic has changed commercial general contracting. 

Whether you’re renovating your home or commercial building, choosing the right contractor for the job is critical. Your choice can make or break your budget – and timeline. Here are some tips to use when looking for a contractor for renovation projects. 

Dunlap is pleased to offer a wide variety of contractor services to the WNC area. Our family-owned and operated business has grown from a small residential company back in 1979 to a full-service contractor. As a result, our portfolio spans multiple sectors. Working on diverse projects allows us to pass on decades of in-depth knowledge to you as a client and provide top-notch contractor services each and every time. 

Whether it’s a residence or business, Dunlap is your premier restoration contractor for any historic building in need. We love working on restoration projects because we get to show off our artistry in construction. This type of work requires a delicate touch and know-how of building practices that only come from decades of experience. 

So you’ve decided to build, now what? When it comes time to hire a builder, the process can seem overwhelming. How do you choose the right company? Dunlap has been serving the WNC area for over 40 years, and during that time, we have been fortunate to work on projects in a wide variety of sectors. We have some tips to help you hire the best builder for your job. 

Are you considering making some changes to your commercial space? Should you renovate or remodel? What’s the difference? Before your hire a contractor, you’ll need to decide which approach will help you reach your goals. Let’s discuss these options to see whether renovating or remodeling would be right for you.

If you’ve been to any hardware store lately, you may have noticed that lumber prices are higher than normal. Lumber isn’t the only building material to be subject to a price surge! The price of steel affects almost every aspect of commercial or residential construction. While we can’t control the cost of these valuable materials, we do have some tips to help you control the rising cost to build as much as possible.

When considering a commercial renovation or new build, there are elements that can really make or break the end result. Start by choosing a contractor that knows the ins and outs of this industry. Dunlap is one of the most reputable commercial construction companies in WNC because of our commitment to customer service and attention to detail. After countless projects and decades of experience, we are giving you our top design tips to ensure your next commercial project is a success. 

Dunlap Construction has been serving the greater Western North Carolina region since 1979. As a result, we have become a trusted partner for many local businesses, hospital systems, municipal projects, and more. Our involvement in community organizations makes us one of the top local contractors for nonprofit agencies. We recently had the opportunity to work on some renovations to Safelight, an important agency in Hendersonville dedicated to supporting survivors of interpersonal violence, sexual assault and child abuse. Read on to learn more about this project and the services Safelight provides.

While some industries have come to a screeching halt due to the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, we have been fortunate to continue providing construction services to our WNC region. In fact, for certain sectors, now may be the ideal time to begin a project. With many office spaces left empty in favor of remote work, builders must adapt to the changes in commercial construction needs.  

Dunlap is a family owned business that has been serving the Western North Carolina area for over 40 years. During that time, we have worked in many sectors and become a one stop shop for all your construction needs. Hiring a local builder for your next project is a big decision and depends greatly on the type of construction. Fortunately, our wide range of expertise makes us a great choice for almost any project.

As a full service general contractor, we have experience in a wide range of sectors on the commercial side of construction. When it comes to hiring a commercial general contractor, what should you know? Here are some tips to find the best fit.

Dunlap has been serving the Western North Carolina for over 40 years, and one of the major keys to our success is our focus on customer satisfaction. We value relationship building with our clients. Through open and honest communication, we are able to deliver top quality service and gain repeat business from previous clients. Our commitment to these values makes us one of Hendersonville’s top commercial builders.

We’ve noticed a trend lately that’s not necessarily positive – it’s becoming more and more expensive to build. As Hendersonville and other parts of Western NC grow in popularity, so does the cost to build there. With proper planning and management, it is possible to control your construction costs. Here are some tips to help you get the most bang for your buck.

When it comes to restaurant construction in Western North Carolina, we have certainly become a local favorite. Our years of experience and excellent customer relationships have made us a trusted restaurant GC for both new restaurant construction as well as renovations. Let’s take a look at some of the restaurant projects we have had the pleasure of working on.

When dealing with homeowners and business owners considering renovations, we have heard a wide range of incorrect assumptions about the process. Unfortunately, it’s easy to stumble on bad advice from friends or coworkers – or even on the internet. It’s always best to talk directly to a trusted contractor about any questions or concerns. Let’s discuss some of the most common myths we hear about office and home renovation.

Over the years, we have seen the many ups and downs of office renovation. In the end, all the time and effort will be worth it as you achieve your goals. Still, there are ways you can help streamline the process for yourself and the contractor at work. We have discovered some common mistakes you might want to avoid while renovating your office.

When you finally get the go ahead for your next construction project, what’s the next step? Seeking out a quality builder may sound daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. We have some insider tips to help you narrow the field and find the best contractor for the job.

Dunlap Construction has become one of the top contractors in WNC by taking on projects in a wide variety of sectors. Over the years we have been fortunate to work on dozens of unique jobs. When people think of a typical general contractor, they might not think about the construction of a trampoline park. But, we love working on these recreational spaces! While many gyms and recreation parks remain closed or are operating at limited capacity, we certainly look forward to enjoying these outlets again in the future. In the mean time, let’s look at some of the fun projects we have done over the years.

Dunlap Construction started as a small, family owned residential construction firm back in 1979 and quickly grew into other sectors, including commercial, municipal, and medical. Now, 40 years later, we are still family owned and a prominent contractor in WNC. We are honored to be the commercial builder of choice for so many local businesses when they need remodeling or a new build. Here’s a look at just a few of the projects we have completed.

Dunlap has been serving the Western North Carolina area for over 40 years. During that time, we have grown and changed along with this beautiful part of the country. We have seen the need for development increasing in nearly every sector. But, one of the fastest changing sectors we have worked with is healthcare. Much like the field itself, the design and construction seems to be constantly changing. Throughout our time in operation, we have developed close relationships with many of the healthcare systems – working with them to adapt to new demands. Our reputation as a trusted partner has made us one of the top healthcare general contractors in the WNC area. 

When it comes to your commercial remodel, there are a lot of factors to consider to ensure you get a good return on investment (ROI). Remodeling your business can make a huge positive impact on your ability to attract and retain employees, gain customers, and increase sales. So, how much should you invest in making that happen?

Are you thinking of renovating your commercial space? Maybe it’s time for a move and you need to build out a new space to suit your needs. Regardless of the reason, tackling a renovation can be intimidating. Dunlap has some guidelines that should help you get started, by creating your commercial renovation budget. 

When it comes to your next commercial construction renovation project, you’ll be hard pressed to find a more experienced contractor than Dunlap Construction. We have partnered with WNC’s businesses to complete renovations, as well as new construction, of commercial spaces for decades. As a result, we have developed enough working relationships and experience in this sector to make us Hendersonville commercial renovation experts. 

Dunlap Construction is a full-service, licensed, bonded and insured general contracting firm based in Western North Carolina. We have been serving this community since 1979 and have built countless relationships with homeowners, businesses, hospital systems and more. Throughout the years, we have honed our skills in commercial, residential, municipal, and medical construction and become a top general contractor in the area. 

Arguably one of the most important parts of any construction project is the cost estimation. Without accurate estimates, you risk going over budget, missing deadlines, and ultimately disappointing the client. Cost estimating is a skill that’s honed over time with experience. Dunlap has been serving our area for over 40 years, which is why we have become Hendersonville construction cost estimating experts. 

Dunlap Construction began as a small residential contracting company, founded in 1979 by Dennis Dunlap. Over time, we grew into other sectors like commercial, municipal, medical, and even restoration. Throughout our 40 years in business, we have always prioritized the customer experience. We believe in building relationships with our clients, maintaining open and honest communication, and handling any problems with integrity. Our quality service has been recognized time and time again by repeat business and made us a leading General Contractor in Hendersonville and surrounding areas. 

When you’re looking for a contractor, it’s typically beneficial to find one with a wide range of experience. However, each construction project is unique, and some simply require more specific expertise. This is the case with medical construction. At Dunlap, we have worked on dozens of hospital and medical office builds spanning over 30 years of specialized experience.

If you’re a developer who is thinking about adding commercial projects to your repertoire, consider this: when it comes to residential versus commercial construction, there are some key differences to note. Read on to find out some of the pros and cons, and how to prepare for each step.

Dunlap Construction has been working commercial projects for over 40 years, and we know the ins and outs of estimation challenges. Determining an estimate for a bid plays an important role in the success or failure of a job – and whether you even get the job at all. The community in Western NC has come to trust our process to provide an accurate Hendersonville construction estimate for any commercial project that comes our way. Here are some of our best practices in the estimating process.

At Dunlap Construction, we have prided ourselves on high quality post-construction services for more than 40 years. We take customer satisfaction very seriously and we strive to ensure that every project ends with a smile on our customer’s faces. Unfortunately, we can’t handle every construction project in Western North Carolina and not every contractor is good to their word. Unexpected problems can pop up at any stage and less experienced and reputable builders sometimes choose not to stand by their work; it can be particularly challenging to handle an issue after construction is over. As an experienced, family-owned building contractor in Hendersonville, NC, Dunlap Construction is committed to ensuring you are happy with your construction project at every step – including after we leave the site. What is the best way to handle a dispute after the job is complete?

Not all construction projects are created equal. In some cases, special considerations must be taken to ensure the end result meets all legal requirements. When it comes to Hendersonville municipal construction, there are certain regulations that must be followed above and beyond regular construction regulations. Fortunately, Dunlap Construction has years of experience doing municipal construction projects and is well qualified to help you through this process.

Since 1982 the Community Foundation of Henderson County has been championing initiatives to serve the residents of Henderson County. Initially created to manage the William C. Armstrong Scholarship Fund and the Charlie Renfrow Scholarship Fund, the founding members quickly sought to build a vehicle for other people in community to give back. Through grants, scholarships, and other funding, they aim to improve the quality of life in this area, addressing social issues affecting the community like food insecurity and homelessness. The reach of CFHC is far and wide, offering school and camp scholarships (camperships), charitable trusts and endowments funds, and more. Their mission:

Helping people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter.

Even a small construction project may give you restless nights due to the amount of effort, time and cost involved. Most people feel overwhelmed, and a certain amount of despair when it comes to planning the construction project as the construction process and costs involved need to be carefully thought out before initiating the project. In this article, we explain how you can set expectations for the construction process and the costs involved by doing some planning beforehand. Before hiring a Hendersonville construction contractor, make sure to learn how to set expectations for construction process and cost.

Renovating a commercial building is a complex process that requires a good amount of planning, cooperation with the contractor, getting required permits and certainly a good amount of money. Most people are hard pressed for an informed answer when they try to come up with the initial steps required in renovating a commercial building. In this article, we explain the whole commercial building renovation process using a step by step approach. If you are planning to hire a downtown Hendersonville general contractor, make sure to learn the 5 basic steps in commercial building renovation process.

Seventh Avenue has long been one of the main commercial centers in Hendersonville. It attracts a large number of visitors due to its proximity to several restaurants, cafes, and shops which also serve as the main attraction in the city of Hendersonville.

Most local governments have strict laws in place which regulate the construction of new buildings or renovation of existing ones. Laws usually differ for commercial and residential buildings, but you can be assured that there are laws that you need to follow to carry out most construction activity on your property. In most cases, you don’t need to worry about this if you are going to hire a local general contractor.

We are dedicated to serving the Hendersonville, NC Community, and have worked with several local businesses in the restaurant and commercial fields, helping them construct workspaces, restaurants and offices of their dreams. Often, clients come to us confused about the things which they should know before hiring a builder. 

Hiring a general contractor is not an easy task as most people have no idea about things which qualities they should search for in a general contractor. Very few people have any prior experience of construction, and are thus, clueless when it comes to hiring a top-quality GC. In this article, we will go into detail on how you can choose a top Hendersonville general contractor.

Hendersonville Restaurant Contractor, Dunlap Construction has brought the dreams of many restauranteurs to life. Are your ready to start work on your dream business or restaurant in Hendersonville or the greater Western North Carolina region? We have specialized for years in helping to create a Turn Key environment for restaurant owners in Hendersonville. Dunlap Construction understands how to communicate with you if you are out of state and need to just walk through the door and open. We have also worked with hands on owners who want to be involved in the development process – turning their dream into a reality. No matter where you land on this spectrum, we can support and help you get the end result you’ve always wanted!

Licensed Contractor in Hendersonville (managing projects of $30,000 or more) are licensed by the:  North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors
3739 National Drive, Suite 225
P. O. Box 17187
Raleigh, NC 27619
919-571-4183

The blank canvas is just the beginning of the most important park of work. Here at Dunlap Construction we see so many possibilities in a blank page or canvas. The creation of one of our most valued canvases started in March of 2015, and our client was Launch Trampoline Park.

Here at Dunlap Construction we pride ourselves in renewing the beauty of deteriorated structures. One of our strengths as a company is the remodel and restoration of weathered and worn buildings. When thinking back to how many successful restorations we have completed since 1976, there is always one that stands out in our mind. It’s located in the heart of downtown Hendersonville, NC. It is on the National Register of Historic Places and has become a landmark to both locals and tourists.