A home remodel may look glamorous in the final reveal, but what happens behind the walls — and behind the scenes — is where experience truly matters.
For Tim Manderfield, sales and project manager at McKean's Floor to Ceiling, a successful renovation starts long before demolition day.
“Look into some general, basic info. Types of products, different types of flooring, counter tops,” Tim says. “Each project will have its pros and cons.” And just as important? “Budget is big as well.”
He encourages homeowners to decide which areas matter most. “For example, in a kitchen, an LVP (luxury vinyl plank) flooring will cost less than tile.” Choosing LVP instead of tile could free up room in the budget for upgraded cabinetry or quartz countertops. “It helps us prioritize areas in an overall budget,” Tim says. “It helps people maximize what they want within that budget.”
Once a renovation begins, there’s more coordination than most homeowners realize. The process typically starts in the showroom, where design consultants walk clients through product options and their tradeoffs.
From there, it’s logistics. Materials may come from four different suppliers. ETAs are gathered. Installers are coordinated. “We may order everything today, and we know everything will be in by the 15th,” Tim says. “Once we know all the materials are here and all the crews are here, we can schedule accordingly.”
The goal is flow. “We wouldn’t want to start a bathroom remodel and have everything demoed, but have to wait,” he says.
Still, surprises happen. “Expect the unexpected,” Tim says. “When you remodel a home, you have a good idea of what you’re getting into, but be ready for surprises.” Older plumbing issues, hidden water damage, or outdated installations are often hard to discover before walls or flooring are removed. “Some of those things you just don’t know until you get into it.”
And then there’s construction itself. “General construction and cleanliness” often surprise homeowners the most, Tim says. Even with protective coverings and dust ventilation, dust is a part of the process.
So where should homeowners invest?
“Kitchens and bathrooms seem to be your highest return on investment,” Tim says, echoing feedback from realtors. Within those spaces, quality materials and preferences matter. Tile floors generally outperform LVP in durability. Quartz countertops typically offer better longevity than laminate.
But saving isn’t off the table. It’s about understanding categories. “It’s almost category specific,” Tim explains. In some cases, the average homeowner may not notice the difference between mid-grade and premium options.
The biggest mistake? “Don’t just buy on price,” Tim says. “Don’t sell yourself short from a quality standpoint.” While some budget conscious decisions may be strategic, other times it’s worth waiting to invest in the right product.
For those unsure where to start, that’s where a full-service design team makes a difference. “There’s a lot of people who come in and say, ‘I don’t even know where to start.’”
From planning and product education to scheduling and warranty support, homeowners have one point of contact at McKean’s. As Tim says. “We help handle all that headache.”
His advice for anyone considering a remodel this year? “Start planning early.” Especially if you’re working toward a major event. “That way, if things happen, you’ve allowed yourself more time to address issues.”
And above all: “Plan for the unplanned.”
Because behind every beautiful renovation is careful coordination — and a team prepared for whatever might be hiding behind the walls.
402.331.4062 | mckeans.com