Remodeling Standards
Creating Long-lasting Functional Spaces
Copple Construction, LLC is dedicated to providing quality remodeling services at reasonable rates. We consider cost versus function and longevity, for each component in the home. With a small additional cost, we have found the increased performance and longevity of certain materials and techniques almost always make sense to include during any remodel.
We have chosen our Remodeling Standards in an effort to provide the lowest cost over the long term, while still keeping the current remodel cost at a reasonable rate. Lower long term costs are achieved through less maintenance, fewer repairs, longer usable life span, lower utility costs, and/or better function. Our system exceeds the industry standard quality. During the Design Phase, we will discuss additional component upgrades which may be right for your project.
As a Licensed Residential Builder we have been tested by the state to ensure our understanding of the systems in a building. We have completed several state, federal, industry, and manufacturer trainings. We use this understanding of how building components work together and the best way to transition from old to new, in order to ensure every component performs properly when combined. We pay particular attention to structural components, moisture management, air quality, and transitions. We use our experience with design to bring together your space into a fully functional, smooth flowing, and great looking area.
Building Component | Industry Standard | Our Standard | Benefit |
---|---|---|---|
Drywall - Joint Compound | 1 coat All-purpose & 1 coat Lightweight, or 2 coats of Lightweight compound | 1 coat of Durabond & 2 coats of Lightweight compound | Less chance of cracks developing |
Drywall - Ceiling | 1/2" thick on ceiling | 5/8" thick on ceiling | Less chance of sagging |
Drywall - Moisture Resistant | Green board (only paper is moisture resistant) | Purple board (paper and core is moisture resistant) | Less chance of water damage |
Wood Studs | Air-dried Studs | Kiln-dried Studs | Less warping after framing |
Structural Framing Sizing | To code minimums | Any framing sizing close to its maximum span is increased to the next size up | Less deflection, more solid feel |
Screws, Nails, & Adhesive | Less than code attachment schedule minimums | Screw, Nail, & Adhesive schedules are followed | Less chance of creaks and cracks |
Thinset | Often a fast setting type is used for everything, so grout can be done the same day. | Properly matched to substrate, moisture conditions, and tile. Fast-set type only used for small repairs. | Stronger bond and less chance of tile coming loose in the future |
Grout | Cheap grout (tendency to crack/flake more easily) | Laticrete Permacolor (very hard and stable after setting) | Less chance of grout cracking or falling out of the joint |
Tile Subfloor Thickness | 3/4" | 1-1/4" minimum | Less chance of tile and grout cracking |
Tile Underlayment | Directly on concrete, plywood, or cement board | Schluter Ditra on concrete or plywood; Kerdi on cement board | Ensures a waterproof wall or floor and allows substrate and tile to expand independently |
Insulation - Walls | R-13 | R-19 if possible | Lower utility bills More consistent temp |
Insulation - Attic | R-30 | R-30 | Lower utility bills More consistent temp |
Fire Blocking only | Fire Blocking w/ Air Sealing | ||
Interior Wall - Soundproofing | 1 sheet of ½” drywall | Bedrooms & media rooms with extra soundproofing | Quieter - More enjoyable living spaces |
Bedroom Doors | Hollow-core | Solid-core or solid wood | Quieter - More enjoyable living spaces |
Caulk - Interior | Cheap latex caulk | Siliconized latex caulk or OSI | Longer-lasting. Less chance of cracking or separating |
Caulk - Exterior | Cheap latex caulk | OSI or Lexel | Longer-lasting. Less chance of cracking or separating |
Recessed Lights | Halo, Juno, Other big box brands | Lightolier professional quality | Longer lasting, less trouble, and wider selection of trims/bulbs |