Should I talk to the contractor on site if I have concerns or questions regarding the structure?

While you are always welcome to speak with the contractors on your site, they are not who you would speak to if you had questions or concerns regarding the build. Each crew is working with the plans provided to them by the Project Management team. If issues or questions arise throughout the process, we ask that they be contacted as soon as possible to address those issues accordingly and in a timely manner.

What can I expect the site to look like throughout the construction process and who is responsible for cleaning it up?

Unfortunately, the various aspects of the construction process can and will be messy. While the contractors do not intend to leave behind a mess at the end of the day, it is important to remember that they will be returning, and the site is a work in progress. As the siding and roofing wrap up, a crew will be scheduled to clean up the site, removing scrap materials, trash, and will sweep the garage out upon their completion. Each project is unique, and some may require more than one clean-up visit throughout the building process.

Can the nails that can be seen from the inside of the unfinished walls be removed?

It is not advised that nails, whether they be in the walls or attic space, be removed or trimmed. Removing the nails jeopardizes the warranty as well as the integrity of the siding and shingles. HGB will not remove or trim them.

What is a firewall and will the remainder of the garage be drywalled?

For many municipalities, accessory structures cannot be built within 5-10 feet of the home. Furthermore, structures within five feet of the property line are required to have two layers of moisture-resistant type X, 5/8-inch drywall installed, also known as a firewall, covering both the interior and exterior of the structure, as well as the soffit and fascia installed on the walls along the property line. The purpose of a firewall is a barrier installed to prevent the spread of fire.

Unfortunately, the remaining walls will not be drywalled by HGB. Firewalls are installed, per the permit requirements, leaving the remaining walls unfinished. Once the project has been completed and the permits have been closed out, the garage can be “finished” as it is drywall ready.  This means that the electrical work has passed all inspections and has been installed safely to code.

Why does the firewall have pink tape? Can we paint over it?

This fire-rated tape is required by the municipality as an additional barrier, preventing fire and smoke from spreading. Yes, the tape and walls can be painted once they have passed inspections, permits have been closed out, and the structure is complete.

What will the area around my new garage look like when completed?

The area around the garage will have a rough graded finish, the soil will be graded to the necessary elevation. Every municipality has different requirements, therefore, any additional permit required grading work will be the owner’s responsibility as well as any permit bond associated with the work.

What should I do with the excess siding and trim?

It is common for the cleanup crew to leave behind a few pieces of both the siding and trim for future use. It is always helpful to have a few pieces of siding if the structure experiences siding damage.

To learn more about “The Heartland Way,” or for a FREE consultation and estimate, contact Heartland Garage Builders at HeartlandGarageBuilders.com or 224-326-2698