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My day starts before most job sites open. Over coffee, I review the day's schedule across three active projects: a kitchen remodel in Clintonville, a bathroom renovation in German Village, and a commercial build-out in Franklinton.
I check weather forecasts rain means rescheduling exterior work and adjusting material deliveries. I scan emails from subcontractors, respond to a homeowner's question about tile grout color, and confirm that the plumber can arrive on schedule at the Clintonville job.
7:15 AM - First Site Visit: Problem Solving
At the German Village bathroom renovation, I meet with the tile installer. We discovered yesterday that the subfloor has water damage likely from an old leak. This isn't in the original scope, but it needs addressing before we continue.
I document the issue with photos, explain the situation to the homeowner via video call, and provide a cost estimate for the additional work. They approve, and I immediately call our carpenter to add the subfloor replacement to today's schedule. This is general contracting: anticipating problems, communicating clearly, and pivoting quickly.
Next stop: the supply house. The custom vanity for our German Village project arrived damaged. I inspect it, document the damage, and coordinate a replacement. While there, I verify that the quartz countertops for the Clintonville kitchen are on track for next week's installation.
I also grab samples for an upcoming project estimate. Homeowners appreciate seeing and touching materials during consultations it makes abstract plans tangible.
At the Clintonville site, cabinet installation is progressing beautifully. I verify measurements before the countertop template appointment tomorrow. The homeowner stops by with questions about the backsplash installation timing and electrical outlet placement.
These conversations are crucial. Clear communication prevents surprises and keeps everyone aligned. I walk them through the next two weeks, explaining when they'll need to make final selections and when their kitchen will be functional again.
Over lunch at my truck, I handle administrative work that keeps projects legal and on track. I'm waiting on a permit approval for an upcoming project that's taking longer than expected. I call the city building department to check status and learn they need one additional document. I email it immediately delays cost everyone time and money.
I also review invoices from subcontractors, approve timesheet hours, and update project schedules in our management software.
The Franklinton commercial space is at the rough-in stage electrical, plumbing, and HVAC installation. I coordinate with three different trades working simultaneously, ensuring they don't interfere with each other's work.
An HVAC issue requires a design modification. I consult with the mechanical engineer, propose a solution to the property owner, and get approval all within 30 minutes. Experience teaches you which problems need immediate attention and which can wait.
Back at the office, I meet with potential clients planning a major renovation. I listen to their vision, take measurements, discuss their timeline and budget, and explain our process. I provide rough estimates and explain factors that affect final costs.
These consultations set the tone for the entire relationship. Honesty and transparency now prevent misunderstandings later.
Before heading home, I confirm tomorrow's schedules with all subcontractors, order materials for next week, and update homeowners on their projects' progress via email with photos.
I review the next day's priorities: a site visit for a new estimate, materials delivery coordination, and a final walkthrough for a completed project.
Being a general contractor means wearing many hats: project manager, problem solver, communicator, coordinator, and quality controller. It's demanding, but watching a home transformation come together seeing homeowners' faces when they walk into their finished space makes every early morning and unexpected challenge worthwhile.
Considering a renovation project? At Fresh Home, our experienced team manages every detail with the same dedication you've just read about. Contact us today for a consultation, or request an estimate to get started on your Central Ohio renovation.
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