The services that we directly provide include but are not limited to:
Full plan sets for existing homes
Full plan sets for additions or new construction
3D model walk-throughs/renderings
Custom furniture/cabinetry
Detailed scope of work with estimated costs and schedules
Hiring of subcontractors to simplify and refine process with single point of contact
Supervision of our own crew as well as any subcontractors that may be needed
We recycle and donate the majority of our waste from demolition, to organizations such as ithacareuse.org.
Non-intrusive renovation work, we use plastic tenting to keep our mess where it belongs.
Special attention and care given to lead, asbestos, and mold hazards.
Structural work and repairs, we are able to properly identify and repair damaged or inadequate structural elements.
We use a variety of materials for our structural work e.g. traditional lumber, steel studs, LVLs, steel beams, etc.
We primarily use the Huber ZIP line of products for our sheathing materials; however we have been trained by Dupont for the full Tyvek and standard sheathing line of products.
We prefer to use traditional rafter framing for roof structure and dormers, but we are capable of installing truss systems as well.
We are a certified installer of the Hardie line of products, protecting their warranty on our work. We usually recommend this material.
When we are matching existing work we are also experienced with LP Smartside, Plygem vinyl siding and traditional wood materials and methods.
For Aluminum siding and masonry we hire trusted subcontractors.
We are fully trained by a BPI (Building Performance Institute) certified firm for proper insulation and air sealing application.
When we are insulating ourselves, we use the Owens Corning PINK line of fiberglass and rigid foam board insulation, along with supplemental spray foam.
For larger projects, it is usually less expensive to hire one of our trusted professional spray foam companies that can work under our direction.
Drywall
We install and finish our drywall ourselves. We are different than most companies in the area because we use furring strips to reduce sound transmission, eliminate sagging, and to remove any imperfections in the drywall.
Anyone that installs windows can tell you that there are two types of windows; windows that leak, and windows that will leak. We stand apart from most installers because we focus on the best way to CONTROL leaking. With proper flashing and sealing practices taught by Andersen Windows (Our preferred brand), we are able to install windows that will last the full life of the house.
Unfortunately many installers make two major mistakes that make it difficult or impossible to properly open and close their windows. Our windows are installed correctly, and every window includes a guarantee for proper operation.
While we always install doors properly the first time, they oftentimes expand and contract between seasons and as a result they may stick or not latch properly. We provide a no cost return service to adjust the doors when and if you experience any issues with them.
Finish carpentry is our biggest strength, and our superior quality is what separates us the most from our competitors. We use the right materials, and we install them the right way.
Staircase installation is usually the most complex project within your home. We are capable of framing, installing, and trimming staircases of all styles in a timely and precise manner.
We provide designs, construction, installation, and painting/staining of a variety of custom casework. From complete custom kitchen cabinets to built-in bench seating or bookcases, our custom woodworking is a staple of our company.
Two-day kitchens. With our experience and specialized equipment, we are able to install your kitchen in two days or less.
Doors and drawers shift with time. We provide a no-cost adjustment in the first year to ensure that your cabinets continue to operate like new.
Flooring (Hardwood, Laminate, Carpet, etc.)We have experience with all types of flooring; however, most carpet installers are able to sell the carpet and install it for the same price or less than it would cost us just to get the material. For this reason, we normally hire a trusted professional to install our carpeting.
TilingWe have experience with a variety of tiling projects, from floors and walls to building custom showers.
We have been trained by Schluter to install their substrate materials for our tiling work, they provide a superior and much faster finished product.
The key to a good paint job is all in the preparation, while many professionals’ idea of prep work is just to brush the walls, we go above and beyond. Our prep work consists of a minimum of repairing any holes or cracks, sanding the walls smooth, and installing a coat of the correct primer. On exterior walls we also heat and scrape off existing oil paint, and scrape off any damaged latex paint. On interior walls with a lot of imperfections, we apply a skim coat of joint compound to hide any inconsistencies.
Our Exterior painting process includes a sprayed-and-brushed coat of a suitable primer, and then one coat of Sherwin Williams Duration Paint, a touch up coat, and then a complete second coat (per Sherwin Williams warranty requirement).
For interiors, ceilings are rolled and brushed with Sherwin Williams Eminence Paint and trim is brushed with Sherwin Williams Pro Classic Paint, the walls are rolled and brushed with a coat of primer and two coats of Sherwin Williams Duration paint.
We have all of the most advanced equipment to paint your house (inside and out) as quickly and precisely as possible. With the climate around the Finger Lakes, speed is an absolute necessity, because the weather and temperature can drag a two week project on for months.
Fencing
We are able to install a variety of different fences. Our specialty is creating and installing our own custom picture frame style wooden fencing. We also install vinyl, composite, metal, and chain link fencing.
Landscaping
We are able to complete certain landscaping projects without the need to hire a landscaper. These tasks include but are not limited to landscape design, paver/patio installation, retaining walls, light land clearing, etc.
Our Limitations
As briefly mentioned above, due to insurance requirements, licenses, and/or specialty equipment that we don't have, we may be unable to complete certain projects on our own. In these cases we are either able to provide you with a referral for a trusted professional that we have worked with in the past, or we can hire, manage, and supervise these subcontractors for you. A list of these subcontracted projects follows:
- Roofing
- Masonry
- Mechanical Systems
- Electrical
- Plumbing
- Large Area Spray Foam Insulation
- Carpeting
Feel free to contact us about any potential projects, whether they are mentioned above or not. At a minimum, we are always able and willing to provide free advice and referrals to help you realize your dreams.
607-703-9000
office@birchcontracting.biz