As you go through the process of choosing a contractor for your remodeling project, you’ll be doing lots of research on different companies, trying to find the one that fits your needs. Here’s just a few of the reasons that GMH stands out from the crowd:

We are highly qualified
GMH’s wide range of certifications include:

  • Member of the National Association of Remodeling Institute (NARI)
  • A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB)
  • Certified in lead and asbestos safe practices
  • All employees and subcontractors are insured
  • Licensed with the state of Wisconsin

You can rest assured that GMH Construction is a reputable company that will stand by its work and abide by all government regulations and industry best practices.

We have an excellent reputation
Much of our business comes from personal referrals and repeat business, so we go to great lengths to maintain our sterling reputation. We aren’t satisfied with a project until you are! We can provide you with references after our initial proposal; you can also read feedback we’ve received from satisfied customers on our testimonials page.

We have over a half-century of experience
If you want your project to be on time, on budget, and completed to a high standard of quality, you need a contractor who knows what they are doing. Many of the stereotypes of contractors being late and over budget are the result of poor planning by inexperienced contractors. Remodeling is a very complex process that takes many years to fully master.

Greg and Dane have a combined experience of over 55 years in the residential construction industry working on a wide variety of projects. Because of their years of experience, GMH can prepare accurate bids and plans for both time and cost. Over the years, we’ve developed robust, step-by-step processes for the entire remodeling process from concept through full completion.

We are locally owned and operated
GMH is proud to have deep ties to the Pewaukee and SE Wisconsin area. We use local building material suppliers and local subcontractors with whom we’ve had relationships for many years. Local sourcing results in better quality for you, with minimal hassle and fewer delays.

We give excellent value for your investment
When you get multiple estimates from contractors, the low bids may be tempting, but ask yourself: Why? What are you not getting from that contractor relative to higher-priced alternatives? Low bids often end up costing more over the long term due to a laundry list of headache-inducing scenarios. Expensive change orders once the project starts. Poor workmanship or materials resulting in early life failure. Inexperienced contractors abandoning a project midstream. Finding out the contractor was unlicensed or uninsured after the fact. When considering a major investment in your home, cheaper isn’t always better.

We make the most of your hard-earned dollars. First by doing quality work that lasts. Second, because we are a one-stop shop for most of your needs, we realize significant savings for you verses having to hire multiple specialist contractors. Third, our one-year warranty means we’ll fix any workmanship issues for you, free of charge (even the best technicians make occasional mistakes). And finally, because we are licensed and maintain full insurance coverage, you are protected in case something catastrophic goes wrong.

We value communication and transparency
We know how important it is to be easy to reach. Poor communication is a common homeowner complaint about contractors. That is why we have implemented a secure online tool to help facilitate communications. Whenever you need to reach us, you can send an email, use the online tool, or call Dane or Greg directly.

Our employees are respectful and trustworthy
We know that a remodeling project can be a significant intrusion to your home and lifestyle, so we’ve trained our employees and subcontractors to clean up daily, show up on time, to be appropriate around children/ your family, and to be willing to answer any question that arises. We only send workers to your home who are either GMH employees, or from trusted subcontractors with whom we have established relationships.

We’re with you every step of the way
When the job transitions from Greg to Dane for onsite project management, they complete a thorough walk-through of the project and cover the requirements on the specifications sheets. Both Dane and Greg are available to discuss questions and concerns at every step of the project. GMH coordinates all materials and subcontractors so you don’t have to.

We’re efficient but flexible
We’ve developed basic standardized processes over the years so that every project goes smoothly and efficiently. However, we also understand that each project and client has its unique needs, so we are very flexible.

We value quality workmanship and materials
We will always complete your project to code and to the highest industry practices, using high-quality materials. We will also always give our very best to meet each client’s standards. Again, we value your referrals and can only get them by ensuring you are completely satisfied with all aspects of your project: Cost, schedule, and quality.

When you’re thinking about a remodel, it’s natural to be nervous. It’s a big investment, and you’ve undoubtedly heard horror stories about contractors who don’t show up on the job or do shoddy work. But for every bad story about an unqualified or unethical contractor, there are dozens of positive experiences. How can you be sure to weed out the bad actors and find the people who will bring your dream renovation to fruition? From finding leads to requesting estimates to finally selecting your contractor, the process requires you to do research and ask questions—lots of questions! A renovation is a large investment of time and money, and you need to have a mutually respectful and comfortable working relationship with your contractor that will last throughout the entire renovation process and beyond.

First, start with national or local associations. The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) backs its members and has strict standards for experience, training, and ethical conduct. Visit a home show to meet contractors in person. Ask neighbors, family, and friends about their experiences. Look for work being done in your area and strike up conversations with homeowners. Those who have gone through a remodel usually love to talk about it, whether they rave about their contractor or have complaints. The best referrals come from personal experience.

10 Reasons to Choose GMH

Narrowing down your list can be done through basic research. Do they have a full business name and address? Do they have a local telephone number? How long have they been in business? Do they have a positive rating with the Better Business Bureau? Check online reviews on Google, Facebook, Houzz, or similar sites. Look for written reviews from prior customers, not just a star rating. Are they licensed and insured, so you’re protected against any mishaps during construction?

Remember that you’re looking for someone you’ll be comfortable working with over a long period of time. Open communication, respect, and trust are key. A contractor should be willing to spend time with you, either in person or by phone. Be upfront about your budget and open about your questions. Some things to ask at this stage:

  • What is their process? Will they give you updates and progress reports?
  • Will they provide references, and can you see examples of their work?
  • How are changes and unexpected costs handled?
  • Do they source their materials locally? You’re looking for quality, as well as efficiency; you don’t want delays because materials are hung up in transit.
  • Do they offer a warranty? What happens if something goes wrong after the work is completed?
  • If they use subcontractors, will they share their names, so you know who will be coming into your house?
  • Will they provide a written contract, and give you ample time to review it?
  • How do they handle hazardous materials, such as lead paint or varnish? Dust kicked up during renovations can be harmful and must be dealt with by people who know how to minimize the risk.

It’s a good idea to ask multiple final candidates for bids; three candidates is a good rule of thumb. While this allows you to compare pricing, pricing isn’t the only consideration. In fact, low bids often turn out to cost more in the long run. Check the proposals against your list of questions and make sure your concerns have been addressed accurately. Follow up with any questions or clarifications. Your contractor should be easy to contact, open to communication, and willing to address any issues. After all, you’re not making a one-time purchase; you’re building a professional relationship. You’re looking for character, competence, and a personal connection.

bath remodel

Build your own spa retreat!

 

Do you have an extra bedroom with no real purpose? Maybe the kids moved out and you’re looking for some extra space of your own? Or do you dream of having a spa-like retreat in your owner’s suite? Perhaps the solution is expanding that extra bedroom into a large walk-in closet and a luxurious primary bath!

 

Turning a Bedroom into a Walk-In Closet

Taking a room in the house that is not reaching its full potential and transitioning it into a more usable function, not only provides you with immediate satisfaction, but will also add value to the home in the future.

Convert Spare Bedroom into Bath/WIC

Example Floor Plan – Convert Bedroom

Some of the easiest bathroom additions to construct are those where a new bathroom can be built in close proximity to an existing bathroom. Water and drain lines that are already run for the existing bath can be tapped into for a new bathroom without having to open up major portions of the house to run new lines.

Ideally, the extra room should be around 150 square feet or more to allow for a spa bathroom renovation and walk-in closet. However, don’t despair if your spare doesn’t compare. Perhaps the space can be designed for a larger, non-walk-in closet or just a primary bathroom.

 

Cost to turn a Spare Room into a Bathroom

The cost of a bathroom expansion ranges from $18,000 to $50,000+, depending on the room’s location, size and features you wish to include. For those in the Southeastern Wisconsin area, contact our team of remodeling and interior design experts for ideas on remodel pricing.

It can be a daunting task to remodel your home. What if my selections don’t match? How do I find a contractor who will treat me fairly and honestly? Can I do this project on a limited budget? Below are five tips to help you navigate these questions and feel more confident in your final decisions.

Start idea boards – Whether a bathroom remodel, kitchen remodel, or finished basement, starting with idea boards on Pinterest, Houzz or other similar sites can help you narrow down what you like and don’t like. After finding the right contractor, their Interior Designer can then guide you the rest of the way with your final selections to get the exact look and feel you want.

tips for first time remodelersResearch general contractors – There are plenty of horror stories about contractors who don’t show up on the job or do shoddy work because they were underqualified. But for every bad story, there are dozens of positive experiences.
Just do your homework. Start with a national or local associations who back their members and require strict adherence to a code of ethics. Then look for online reviews – Google, Facebook, Houzz, or similar sites will not just have star ratings, but will often have written reviews from prior customers outlining exactly what went well on their project. If those reviews check your boxes, then interview a few of the contractors.
GMH Construction is happy to have a discussion with you about your renovation project either by phone or an in-person consultation. Take your time picking the right company, because the remodeling process is a long-term relationship requiring trust and open communication.

Demolition

Demolition, uncovering the unexpected

Understand actual costs and timing – Often times DIY or remodeling TV shows today give unrealistic expectations on costs and timing of a remodel. During your interviews with contractors ask for budgetary amounts and project timelines. Although your final decision should not be based solely on price, that may be an important factor to narrow down those contractors who are overpriced or underpriced.

Be prepared for the unexpected – General contractors are smart people who can typically point out where trouble spots might be in a home remodel and cover those costs in their early renovation proposal. However, they are not superhuman and cannot see through walls to identify possible hidden issues. Be prepared for around 10% overage due to change orders early in the remodel process. Even though these are rare, it is better to be safe than sorry and can help soften the blow if you are aware they may occur. Trust me, your contractor is just as unhappy to tell you about them as you may be to hear them – but it is the reality of the situation.

Fall in Love with Your Home All Over Again

Completed Kitchen Remodel

The beauty after the beast (of a remodel)!

Once the project is done, you will likely forget about the long journey it took to get there and you can finally take the time to bask in your new space!

Have a dinner party in your newly renovated open kitchen!

Post pics of your trendy, spa-like master bathroom!

It’s yours, you worked hard to get here – ENJOY!

 

 

Call GMH Construction, Inc. for a free consultation to help put your mind at ease when embarking on a remodeling project. (262) 696-8131

kitchen remodel southeast wi

Are you planning for a kitchen remodel? If so, more than just individual taste and style needs to be considered. Additional aspects to keep in mind are the current style throughout the home, the house’s architecture, and the placement of the kitchen in the home. Of course, your personal tastes will weigh heavily in the final decision but incorporating structural elements of design are vital for a finished project to flow with the entire house and not stand out like a dimensional oddity.

Traditional

The Traditional interior design style for a kitchen is the most popular and enduring style through the ages, especially in the suburbs of the Midwest. These kitchen designs bring together classic details, lux finishes, and ornate embellishments with comfort and warmth. Transitional kitchens work well in Colonial, Traditional, or Victorian style homes.

Traditional 1

Large Double Island Traditional Kitchen

Traditional 3

Traditional Cooktop Island

 

 

 

 

 

 

Traditional 2

Traditional Coffee Bar & Buffet

Traditional style features:

  • Raised panel cabinets
  • Furniture grade cabinet adornments
  • Corbels, decorative island legs, appliance panels, custom range hood surrounds
  • Marble or quartz countertops and backsplashes
  • Warm color tones
  • Ceiling height cabinets with glass door panels

 

Transitional

Transitional 2

Transitional Kitchen Blend

Another very popular style for kitchen remodels is one that blends both traditional and contemporary elements into a perfect balance. Transitional designs lean towards subtle and neutral colors, and an open airy vibe. When colors are incorporated, they are darker, warmer tones used as a standout feature. The versatility of this style is easy to blend into almost existing interior design. Transitional kitchens work well in Ranch, Bungalow, and Contemporary style homes.

Transitional 1

Cool Neutral Transitional

Transitional style features:

  • Shaker/Paneled cabinets
  • Apron front sinks
  • Waterfall or uniquely shaped island tops
  • Subway tile
  • Combined style elements (warm/cool, trendy/classic)
  • Dual color schemes

Modern Farmhouse

Anytime you turn on HGTV you can’t help but stumble into a kitchen remodel with a Modern Farmhouse style.  This design blends modern features of clean and simple lines with our ideal vision of a cozy, welcoming farmhouse kitchen. Modern Farmhouse kitchens work well in Colonial, Ranch, and Farmhouse style homes.

Traditional 2

Farmhouse Modern

Modern Farmhouse style features:

  • White-tone Shaker cabinets
  • Clean lines
  • Basic color schemes
  • Homey touches
  • Stained hardwood floors in warm finishes
  • Subway tile backsplash

 

Contemporary

Are you the kind of person who loves to have the latest and greatest technology and gadgets? Then perhaps your interior design style will lean more towards the contemporary. This design may be the most difficult to incorporate into the architecture of a Midwest suburban single-family home or condo. But if you’re moving into a downtown condo or loft, the trending style elements of sleek, new materials tied in with modern technology may be the right one for you. Contemporary kitchens work well in Industrial, Modern, and Contemporary style residences.

Contemporary 1

Contemporary Kitchen Prep Areas

Traditional 2

Contemporary Entertaining Island

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Contemporary style features:

  • Flat panel cabinetry
  • Simplistic layout with only one or two eye-catching features
  • Innovative island design
  • Striking lighting elements
  • Creative backsplashes
  • Smart-home or smart-appliance connectivity

Call or message us today to speak with our Lead Designer Mandy if you are ready to get started on the perfect kitchen design and interior design for you, your home, and your budget. She would be happy to speak with you and set up a free consultation. (262) 696-8131 or www.gmh-remodeling.com

new mudroom

As we move from summer into fall and winter many of us are changing out our wardrobe and decorations. Now is also a good time to declutter, clear out, and organize our closets, pantries, and storage. Even if you haven’t had a recent bathroom remodel or kitchen remodel, your home can still have a new, fresh feeling after taking some time to declutter and organize.

Mudroom – Mudrooms and lockers tend to become the catch-all for shoes, coats, and sports gear. Now is a good time to clear out the old and make room for hats, scarves, gloves, and heavier jackets. Using baskets or plastic bins inside of cubbies and cabinets can be helpful in keeping smaller wardrobe items in their space and not just floating around.

Mudroom Lockers with Upper Storage Baskets

Pantry – Are you ready to stock up on the pumpkin spice, cinnamon sticks, and cardamom for the cooler weather? Look through the items in your pantry and clean out long-opened packages or food items past their expiration dates. Small, clear, airtight containers are great for organizing food stuffs and making them easy to find when needed. Clean and declutter small appliances by giving them a wipe down to prevent dust and gunk build-up. Wipe off the shelves, re-stock your things and get ready to cook or bake your favorite comfort foods!

Pantry with Small Appliance Storage and Labeled Clear Containers

Cabinet Organizers – Ease of use and accessibility are key to efficiency and enjoyment in the kitchen. Think beyond just a spice rack to full depth pull out shelving, drawer organizers for plates and bowls, and baking sheet slots.

Pull-Out Kitchen Cabinet Storage

Bedroom closets can quickly go from chaos to pristine with a drawer and shelving organization system. When organizing your belongings, start with a good purge. Get rid of unused, or damaged items. (Ah, doesn’t that feel better already?) Then use shelving and dividers to define the purpose or style of each piece of clothing.

Closet Organization System

If you are contemplating a kitchen, bedroom, or bathroom remodel or addition in the future, keep in mind how you can incorporate organizational systems in those rooms. There are whole industries built on doing just that! Our designers would love to talk to you about how to add fun, stylish, and practical features to your home renovation design.  Call us to talk about your design and decluttering needs! (262) 696-8131 or gmh-remodeling.com

interior designer

Whether you’re looking to build a home addition, finish your basement, or remodel your living room, kitchen, bathroom, an Interior Designer can be a real asset to your project. A designer can help you make the hard decisions and even introduce you to styles and concepts that you may not have thought of on your own. Still not sure? This post discusses the many benefits you’ll enjoy when working with a professional Designer. But first – What is Interior Design?

What is Interior Design?

Collaborating with an Interior Designer

In short, interior design is the art and science of understanding a client’s personality and lifestyle and using that information to plan functional spaces within their home. A designer will spend one-on-one time with a client determining their needs and style, consider the existing structure and features of the home, and develop solutions to create aesthetically pleasing rooms.

What Are the Benefits of Working with an Interior Designer?

The skills of an experienced designer can save you time and money and help you to complete your project with a level of precision that is difficult to do on your own. From kitchen and bath design to basement finishes and additions, interior designers draw on current elements in and around your home and open your eyes to what is possible while being honest about what will not work.

An interior designer can ease your stress. They will take your ideas and craft a space that will make your vision a reality. Their trained eye can ease the worry of indecision and the stress of wondering if selections will look good together. And their professional experience will alleviate the concern over style and materials standing the test of time and years of use.  They often create Design Portfolios to keep your selections in one easy document so you can see your vision as it comes to life.

Kitchen Interior Design

An interior designer offers both time and money savings benefits. They do the leg work for you, tracking down materials, colors, and products to fit your envisioned space. They also anticipate obstacles and work to find a solution before you even know they exist. Utilizing a designer’s experience is a smart financial investment too. They can find styles and suggest products that will fit into your budget without skimping on the wow factor.

After the final design is decided and selections are made, the designer will streamline the communication with your General Contractor. A great designer knows how to speak the lingo when it comes to communicating with architects and contractors. Things you might not even consider, such as vent and outlet placement, really make a difference in the room. Addressing these types of needs before construction begins saves times, avoids hassles, and eliminates extra charges in the future.

Bathroom Interior Design

Our designers look forward to the opportunity to work with you. Give us a call today at 262-696-8131 or use the contact form to the right to schedule your initial complimentary consultation. Learn how Interior Design services fit into GMH Construction’s overall process.

new home addition

Are the budding trees and changing seasons giving you the urge revamp your interior? A home remodel is a great way to update the main features of your home such as cabinets, flooring, countertops, and plumbing fixtures. But if you are on a budget or just looking for a simple way to freshen up the look of a room, interior decorating is the more affordable fix you need. These five stores are great places to browse for inspiration or the new vibe you didn’t know you need for your home makeover.

Box Store/Hardware Store

Colorful Wall Decorations and Pillows

These stores can give you a one-stop-shop for paint samples, window treatments, and light fixtures. Sometimes a nice, green houseplant adds just the right touch of natural beauty to a room.

Home Furnishings

Accent items such as pictures, decorations, plants, framed mirrors, pots, and sculptures can enhance the décor and give your living space character.

Flooring Store

Dark Grey Stone Mosaic Tile Floor

Dark Grey Stone Mosaic Tile Floor

Many have a great selection of rugs, carpeting, engineered hardwood, or tile for the DIYers. Look for products that add texture, tone, and warmth to your room.

Furniture Store

Large or small, furniture stores typically have fully set up displays with furniture, flooring, and furnishings. Besides larger pieces like beds or sofas, these stores often sell small tables, chests, lamps, and chairs to complete your home remodel vision.

Framed Mirrors and Plant w/Vase

Framed Mirrors and Plant w/Vase

Lighting Store

Lighting stores can really bring the WOW with statement pieces in warm and cool designs. Sconces, chandeliers, wall mounted lights, accent lighting, and lamps will set the mood in a room with the flick of a switch.

For those who are designing on a budget, many of these stores have discount or clearance sections with treasures that can round out your design or put the icing on the cake of your kitchen renovation or bath remodel.

Visit GMH Construction, Inc.’s bathroom remodel images and kitchen remodel portfolio to get ideas from a professional home remodeler for your next home renovation.

 

basement remodel
Gathering Space with Wet Bar

Gathering Space with Wet Bar

Living-in-place is an increasing trend. With fewer available events and extracurricular activities, families are spending more time together at home. Looking for a new retreat in your house? A fun place to hang out with family and friends? Or just somewhere to give the kids more room to play? Many people overlook a basement remodel when they plan to add space to their home.

Yet, with the right remodeling contractor, your unfinished lower level has the potential to be whatever you need.

What are the Advantages?

When you close your eyes, what “dream room” do you imagine your basement becoming? An entertainment room with rustic wood bar; a flashy, fun game room; a multi-screen man-cave with a beer fridge; a comfy, large-screen theater room; an eclectic, uber-organized craft room; a spacious guest suite with full bathroom for the in-laws; or a cozy personal hide-away with a fireplace?

Comfy Rec Room

Comfy Rec Room

Lower Level Bedroom

Chic Extra Bedroom

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bathroom Retreat

Bathroom Retreat

When planning how to finish your basement space, upfront cost and long-term investment value need to be part of the consideration. Keep in mind that, not only can you take advantage of the space while you live there but, on average, a homeowner can recoup between 60%-70% of the cost.

For example, a 1000 square foot finished basement with bath and bar might cost you $85,000 or more, but it could add $55,000 of value onto your home and bring additional resale appeal.

Important Factors to Keep in Mind

To make your basement a safe place to hang out with the family, it needs to be dry, clean, and up to local building code standards. Always work with a basement remodeling specialist who is licensed in your state and will obtain the proper permits.

Bedroom with Egress Window

Bedroom with Egress Window

The first step is to waterproof and repair any foundation issues. That will prevent your beautiful new rooms from experiencing unwanted water damage. Depending on how you plan to use your space, an egress window may be required for a second exit point and the additional natural light that it will provide to a room. Proper insulation on the walls and in the ceiling will help with any noise dampening and HVAC ducting will keep your entertainment areas warm and comfortable.

When all the planning and construction is complete, you’ll be ready to gather your closest friends and family for a party! It’s gratifying for everyone to see a beautifully finished basement filled with people enjoying themselves, especially if one reason for the renovation was to entertain!

Built In Entertainment Center

Bathroom w/Walk-In Shower

 

environmental sustainability

At GMH Construction, we are dedicated to pursuing recycling and sustainable design from set up to clean up.  Because, we don’t just work in our local communities, we live inenvironmental sustainability them too.

One area of focus is to reduce our carbon footprint and the impact on the environment. We do that through salvaging and donating certain demolition products for reuse and recycling common Construction & Demolition (C&D) debris.

  • These materials include debris generated during the demolition and construction processes. Common debris such as lumber, metal, masonry, tile, carpet, insulation, plastic, tile, cardboard, and more is taken to a single-stream recycling facility for sorting and processing.
  • You trade in your car, can you trade in a kitchen? Items such as cabinets, countertops, and fixtures in good condition may be donated to a local charitable organization such as Habitat for Humanity® for salvage, sale, or reuse.environment sustainability procedures

What are the Benefits of Environmental Sustainability?

  • Help to offset the environmental impact of construction
  • Potentially reduce the associated environmental issues
  • Conserve landfill space
  • Socially and environmentally responsible activity