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FAQ

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

General FAQs

How long have you been in business?

TOTL Building has built its reputation by delivering quality renovations, additions and custom building projects throughout the Lower Mainland of British Columbia. While years in business are important, we believe the quality of our workmanship, planning, communication and client relationships are what truly define our experience.

Every project is approached with careful attention to detail, whether we’re renovating a kitchen in Port Coquitlam, building a custom deck in Coquitlam or completing a whole-home renovation elsewhere in the Tri-Cities. Our goal is to provide a smooth construction experience from the initial consultation through to the final walkthrough.

At TOTL Building, we’re focused on building long-term relationships with our clients, not simply completing one project.

Yes. We believe every homeowner should work with a contractor that carries appropriate insurance and operates professionally. Construction projects involve many moving parts, and having the proper coverage helps provide peace of mind for both the homeowner and the contractor.

We’re happy to discuss our insurance coverage and answer any questions before your project begins. Our goal is to ensure you feel confident knowing your renovation or custom building project is being managed responsibly and professionally.

Yes. TOTL Building maintains WorkSafeBC coverage and promotes safe job-site practices on every project. Safety protects our team, our trade partners and your home throughout the construction process.

From demolition and framing to finishing work, we maintain organized job sites and work with qualified trades to complete projects safely and efficiently.

We understand that homeowners want to hire a contractor they can trust. In addition to asking about memberships and affiliations, we encourage clients to review our completed projects, testimonials and references.

Choosing the right contractor is about professionalism, communication and consistently delivering quality work. We’re always happy to answer questions about our company and provide examples of previous projects.

We primarily meet clients at their home or project site because that’s where the best planning takes place. Seeing the existing space allows us to better understand your goals, evaluate the project and discuss design ideas.

If product selections are required, we can also recommend trusted suppliers and showrooms throughout the Lower Mainland for cabinetry, countertops, plumbing fixtures, flooring, lighting and other finishes.


Next section in this document: Remaining General FAQs (Crew, Permits, Engineers, Materials, Services, Pricing and Timelines).

Every project is staffed according to its size and complexity. TOTL Building combines experienced in-house personnel with a network of trusted licensed trades to ensure the right professionals are on site at the right time. Whether we’re renovating a bathroom in Port Coquitlam or building a custom home in the Lower Mainland, our focus is quality workmanship, efficient scheduling and clear communication.

We manage every project from start to finish while also performing many aspects of the construction ourselves. For specialized work such as electrical, plumbing, HVAC and engineering, we partner with qualified licensed professionals. This approach allows us to maintain quality while ensuring every part of the project is completed by the appropriate expert.

Yes. We can coordinate the preparation of design drawings required for renovations, additions and custom homes. Well-prepared plans help the permitting process move more smoothly and ensure everyone involved understands the project before construction begins.

Absolutely. We regularly assist homeowners with permit applications and coordinate with municipalities such as Port Coquitlam, Coquitlam, Port Moody and other Lower Mainland communities. Permit requirements vary depending on the project, and we’re happy to guide you through the process.

Yes. If your project requires a property survey, site layout or elevation information, we can coordinate those services through trusted surveying professionals as part of your overall project.

We work with experienced structural and specialty engineers whenever engineering is required. This is common for structural changes, additions, retaining walls and custom homes where professional engineering helps ensure safety and code compliance.

Yes. We can source virtually everything needed for your renovation or new build, including lumber, cabinetry, flooring, countertops, plumbing fixtures, lighting, windows, doors and finishing materials. We also help homeowners select products that match their style, budget and long-term goals.

Yes. TOTL Building offers custom home construction tailored to your property, lifestyle and budget. From planning and permits through construction and finishing, we manage the entire process while keeping you informed every step of the way.

Yes. We can build or renovate basement suites designed to meet applicable BC Building Code and municipal requirements. Every property is different, so we’ll review zoning, permitting and design requirements before construction begins.

Yes. Kitchen and bathroom renovations are among our core services. Whether you’re looking for a modern update or a complete redesign, we help create functional, beautiful spaces that add value to your home.

Yes. We design and build wood, composite and covered decks throughout the Tri-Cities and Lower Mainland. Every deck is designed to complement your home while providing a durable outdoor living space for years to come.

Yes. We can coordinate landscaping as part of a larger renovation or new construction project, helping create a finished outdoor environment that complements your home.

Yes. We coordinate and complete concrete work including driveways, walkways, patios and related hardscape features. We’ll recommend the best solution based on your property’s layout, drainage and intended use.

Yes. We provide roofing services as part of renovation, addition and custom home projects, ensuring your home’s exterior performs as well as it looks.

Yes. We install a variety of quality siding products that improve curb appeal, weather protection and energy efficiency. We’ll help you choose the material that best suits your home and budget.

Absolutely. New windows and doors can dramatically improve comfort, appearance and energy efficiency. We help homeowners choose products that complement their home’s style while meeting today’s performance standards.

Yes. Interior and exterior painting can be included as part of your renovation or construction project, providing a complete finished result without having to coordinate multiple contractors.

Every renovation is unique, so costs vary based on size, design, materials and the scope of work. After meeting with you and reviewing your project, we’ll prepare a detailed quotation that clearly outlines the investment required.

Timelines depend on project size, permits, product lead times and construction complexity. Before work begins, we’ll provide a realistic schedule and keep you updated throughout the project.

Yes. Our projects follow a staged payment schedule tied to construction milestones. This provides transparency and allows clients to see progress before each payment is made.

Deposit requirements vary depending on the size of the project and any materials that must be ordered in advance. We’ll explain the payment structure before work begins so you know exactly what to expect.

Kitchen FAQs

How long will this project take?

A typical kitchen renovation takes between 6 and 10 weeks once construction begins, although the timeline depends on the scope of work, custom cabinetry, permits and product lead times. If walls are being removed or structural changes are involved, additional time may be required.

At TOTL Building, we develop a detailed schedule before work starts so you know what to expect. Careful planning and early material selection help keep projects on schedule and minimize disruption to your home.

Keeping your home clean during a renovation is a priority. We use dust barriers, floor protection, plastic containment walls and daily clean-up practices to help reduce the spread of dust into the rest of your home. We also coordinate demolition and cutting activities to minimize disruption whenever possible.

While no renovation is completely dust-free, careful preparation makes a significant difference in maintaining a cleaner, safer home throughout construction.

We can recommend several trusted cabinet suppliers and manufacturers throughout the Lower Mainland, depending on your budget, design style and desired level of customization. Whether you’re looking for custom cabinetry, semi-custom options or quality pre-manufactured cabinets, we’ll help you compare choices and select products that fit your renovation.

Our goal is to balance appearance, functionality and long-term durability.

There are hundreds of cabinet door profiles, finishes and colours available. During the design process we’ll help you narrow the options based on your home’s style, your budget and current design trends. Visiting local showrooms and reviewing samples allows you to see colours and finishes under real lighting conditions before making a final decision.

Cabinet hardware is one of the finishing touches that can dramatically influence the look of a new kitchen. Bar pulls remain a popular contemporary choice, while knobs and traditional handles work well in classic or transitional kitchens. We help homeowners select hardware that complements the cabinetry, appliances and overall design while remaining comfortable for everyday use.

In most kitchens, longer handles provide a modern appearance and are easier to use on larger drawers. Smaller pulls or knobs often work well on upper cabinets. During the design process we’ll recommend sizes that are proportional to your cabinet doors and drawer fronts while maintaining a consistent look throughout the kitchen.

We’ll recommend reputable countertop suppliers offering quartz, granite, porcelain and other premium surfaces. We generally encourage homeowners to visit local showrooms where they can view full slabs instead of small samples, giving a much better idea of colour variation and pattern before making a final selection.

Quality plumbing fixtures are available through plumbing showrooms and specialty suppliers throughout the Lower Mainland. We can help you compare brands, finishes and features to find faucets, sinks and accessories that fit both your design vision and your budget.

Lighting has a major impact on the functionality and atmosphere of your kitchen. We’ll recommend lighting suppliers that offer quality recessed lighting, pendants, under-cabinet lighting and decorative fixtures, helping you layer lighting for cooking, entertaining and everyday living.

Backsplashes and floor tile are available from numerous tile showrooms throughout Metro Vancouver. We encourage homeowners to view full displays whenever possible to compare colour, texture, size and finish before making a final selection.


Next draft will continue with appliances, cabinetry design, countertops, islands, pantry storage, backsplashes and the remaining kitchen questions.

We recommend visiting reputable appliance retailers throughout the Lower Mainland where you can compare brands, finishes and features in person. We are happy to coordinate appliance dimensions with your cabinetry to ensure everything fits perfectly before installation.

Whenever ceiling height allows, we generally recommend extending upper cabinets as high as practical. Taller cabinetry provides additional storage, creates a custom appearance and eliminates the dust-collecting space above standard cabinets. The final height depends on your ceiling height and overall kitchen design.

Absolutely. Under-cabinet LED lighting is one of the best upgrades you can make in a kitchen. It improves task lighting, highlights your backsplash and creates a warm evening ambience while consuming very little electricity.

Appliance garages are an excellent way to keep coffee makers, toasters and other small appliances off the countertop while keeping them easily accessible. They work particularly well in larger kitchens where maintaining clean countertop space is a priority.

Today’s kitchens generally favour a single-level island because it provides a larger work surface, better seating and a cleaner contemporary appearance. Raised eating bars are less common than they once were, although they can still work well in certain homes.

Both options create beautiful kitchens. Full-height quartz backsplashes provide a seamless luxury appearance and are easy to clean, while tile offers greater design flexibility and often costs less. The best choice depends on your budget and desired style.

Quartz is the most popular choice because it combines durability, low maintenance and consistent colour. Granite offers natural beauty with unique patterns, while laminate remains a practical budget-friendly option. We’ll help you compare the advantages of each material based on your lifestyle and investment goals.

The right hood fan depends on your cooking style and kitchen layout. For serious home cooks, a properly vented exterior hood is usually the best choice because it removes heat, moisture and cooking odours far more effectively than recirculating units.

Many homeowners now prefer placing the microwave in the island or lower cabinetry to free up valuable upper cabinet space and create a cleaner kitchen design. The ideal location depends on how you use your kitchen and the ages of family members.

Yes. Glass cabinet doors can make a kitchen feel brighter and more open while providing an attractive place to display dishes or decorative items. Many homeowners combine a few glass cabinets with solid doors for a balanced look.

Both have advantages. Gas provides instant temperature control that many cooks prefer, while today’s induction and electric ranges offer excellent performance, energy efficiency and easy cleaning. We’ll help you choose the option that best suits your cooking style and available utilities.

Wall ovens create a more custom kitchen layout and improve accessibility, while traditional ranges remain a cost-effective all-in-one solution. The best option depends on your cooking habits, available space and overall kitchen design.

Stainless steel remains the most popular choice because it complements virtually any kitchen style. Panel-ready appliances create a seamless custom appearance, while black stainless and matte finishes have also become increasingly popular in modern homes.

Absolutely. Pull-out drawers dramatically improve pantry organization by making food and small appliances easier to access without reaching into deep shelves. They are one of the upgrades we frequently recommend.

We strongly recommend soft-close hinges and drawer slides for every kitchen. They reduce wear and tear, eliminate slamming and provide a higher-quality feel that homeowners appreciate every day.

Most modern cabinetry includes adjustable shelving, allowing storage to be customized for dishes, pantry items and small appliances as your needs change over time.

Yes. Built-in waste and recycling pull-outs are one of the most requested kitchen features because they keep containers hidden while making daily clean-up more convenient.

Slide-out spice racks are an excellent use of narrow spaces beside ranges or cabinets. They improve organization and make spices easy to access while cooking.

Vertical tray dividers inside lower cabinets or pantry pull-outs are one of the best storage solutions for baking sheets, cutting boards and serving trays. They keep everything organized while making items easy to reach when needed.

Bathroom FAQs

How much do heated floors cost?

Heated floor systems are one of the most popular bathroom upgrades because they add comfort and can help dry the floor more quickly. The cost depends on the size of the room, the type of heating system and the finished flooring. During your estimate, we’ll explain the options and provide pricing based on your bathroom layout.

Yes. Floating or suspended vanities create a clean, contemporary appearance and make the room feel larger. They also make floor cleaning easier. Proper wall support is required, and we’ll ensure the installation is structurally sound before the vanity is mounted.

Yes. We can supply and install everything from standard vanity mirrors to custom-cut mirrors, framed mirrors and illuminated LED mirrors. We’ll help you choose an option that complements your vanity, lighting and overall bathroom design.

We recommend visiting quality plumbing showrooms where you can compare faucets, shower systems, tubs and accessories in person. We can also recommend trusted brands and help ensure every fixture works together both aesthetically and functionally.

The best shower fixture depends on your budget and how you use the space. Pressure-balanced valves, thermostatic controls and quality finishes all contribute to a better shower experience. We’ll help you select fixtures that provide long-term performance and reliability.

Absolutely. Slide bars with handheld shower wands are practical for everyday use, make cleaning easier and improve accessibility for people of all ages. They are one of the upgrades we frequently recommend.

Yes. Rain shower heads create a spa-like experience and are increasingly popular in modern bathroom renovations. We’ll confirm the plumbing layout and water pressure to ensure the system performs as expected.

Yes. Built-in shower benches add comfort, convenience and accessibility. They are ideal for larger showers and can also provide additional storage for toiletries when incorporated into the overall design.

The ideal tub depends on the size of your bathroom and your personal preferences. We help homeowners balance comfort, available space and plumbing requirements to choose the right bathtub for their renovation.

Both options have advantages. Acrylic bases are cost-effective, durable and quick to install, while tiled shower bases offer a fully custom appearance. We’ll explain the pros and cons of each so you can choose the best solution for your budget and lifestyle.

Next draft: waterproofing, niches, toilets, towel warmers, bidets, lighting, bath fans, shower doors, tubs, paint, tile selection and more.

Proper waterproofing is one of the most important parts of any bathroom renovation. At TOTL Building, we use proven waterproofing systems designed specifically for tiled shower installations to help protect your home from moisture damage. Quality waterproofing behind the tile is just as important as the tile itself, and it’s an area where homeowners should never cut corners.

Absolutely. Built-in shower niches are one of the most requested bathroom upgrades because they provide convenient storage without taking up additional space. We can customize the size, location and number of niches to suit your shower design and everyday needs.

Undermount sinks remain the most popular choice because they create a clean appearance and make countertop cleaning easier. Top-mount sinks can still be an excellent option depending on the vanity style, countertop material and budget. We’ll help you choose the best fit for your project.

Today’s high-efficiency toilets offer excellent flushing performance while using less water than older models. Comfort-height toilets are also increasingly popular because they are easier for many homeowners to use. We’ll recommend quality products that combine reliability, performance and appearance.

Yes. Heated towel bars add a touch of luxury while helping towels dry more quickly between uses. They are available in several styles, finishes and sizes and are a popular addition to primary ensuite bathrooms.

Absolutely. Modern bidet seats have become increasingly popular because they improve comfort, hygiene and convenience. Many models include heated seats, adjustable water temperature and air drying functions. We’ll confirm electrical requirements during the planning stage.

The best bathrooms use layered lighting. Pot lights provide excellent overall illumination, while vanity lighting offers better facial lighting for grooming. We often recommend combining both for the most functional and attractive result.

Yes. A dedicated waterproof shower light makes the shower brighter, safer and more comfortable while highlighting the tile work. It’s a relatively small upgrade that makes a noticeable difference.

Yes. Proper ventilation helps remove moisture, reduce condensation and protect your bathroom from mould and mildew. If your existing fan is noisy or undersized, replacing it during the renovation is usually a worthwhile investment.

Frameless glass shower doors remain one of the most popular choices because they create an open, modern appearance and showcase the tile work. Depending on the layout and budget, semi-frameless or framed options may also be appropriate.

The choice depends on the available space and shower layout. Hinged doors provide a clean contemporary appearance, while sliding doors work well where clearance is limited. We’ll recommend the best option based on your bathroom design.

Chrome remains a timeless choice, while matte black, brushed nickel and brushed gold continue to be popular in contemporary bathrooms. We recommend selecting one finish and using it consistently throughout the room for a cohesive appearance.

Tub depth varies depending on the model you choose. If soaking comfort is important, we’ll help you select a deeper tub while ensuring it fits comfortably within the available space.

Yes. Jetted tubs are still available and can provide a relaxing spa experience. However, many homeowners now prefer larger soaking tubs because they require less maintenance while offering a similar level of comfort.

Absolutely. Freestanding tubs are one of the defining features of many luxury bathrooms. They create a beautiful focal point and are available in a wide range of styles and sizes.

Soft whites, warm greys, light earth tones and calming blues continue to be popular bathroom colours. We recommend selecting colours that complement your tile, cabinetry and lighting while creating a relaxing atmosphere.

They don’t have to match exactly, but they should complement one another. Using coordinating colours and textures creates a cohesive design while allowing each area to have its own character.

Matte tiles are generally preferred for floors because they offer better slip resistance, while gloss finishes can work beautifully on walls where they reflect more light. The best combination depends on your design style and intended use.

Smaller mosaic tiles are typically recommended for shower floors because they follow the floor slope more easily and provide additional grout lines for improved traction. We’ll recommend the most suitable tile size based on your shower design.

Deck FAQs

What are the different types of decking to use?

There are several excellent decking materials available today, each offering different advantages. Pressure-treated lumber remains a cost-effective choice, cedar provides a beautiful natural appearance, while composite decking offers exceptional durability with very little maintenance. PVC decking is another premium option that resists moisture and fading.

At TOTL Building, we’ll explain the pros and cons of each material so you can choose the best option for your budget, lifestyle and long-term maintenance expectations.

Deck pricing depends on several factors including size, height, framing complexity, railing systems, stairs, lighting and the decking material itself. Pressure-treated lumber is generally the most economical, cedar falls in the middle, while composite and PVC products require a larger initial investment but typically offer lower maintenance costs over time.

We’ll prepare a detailed quotation so you can compare options and make an informed decision.

Yes. Covered outdoor living spaces continue to grow in popularity throughout the Lower Mainland because they allow homeowners to enjoy their deck during both sunny and rainy weather. We can build permanent roof structures, timber canopies and other custom overhead features that complement your home’s architecture.

We offer a variety of deck cover solutions including traditional framed roofs, covered patios, pergolas, privacy structures and custom outdoor living spaces. The right choice depends on your home’s design, your budget and how you intend to use the space throughout the year.

Today’s homeowners have many railing options including aluminum, glass, cable, wood and composite systems. Each provides a different appearance, level of maintenance and degree of visibility. We’ll recommend a railing system that complements both your home and your new deck.

Aluminum railings are extremely popular because they’re durable, low maintenance and available in several colours. Wood railings create a more traditional appearance and can be customized to suit your home’s style, although they generally require more maintenance over time.

The framing is typically constructed using pressure-treated lumber engineered for exterior use. The finished decking surface can then be completed with pressure-treated wood, cedar, composite or PVC products depending on your preferences and budget.

Both options are available. Floating decks can work well for certain low-height installations, while elevated decks generally require engineered footings for long-term stability and code compliance. We’ll recommend the most appropriate foundation system after evaluating your property.

Most residential decks can be completed in one to three weeks depending on their size, complexity, weather conditions and permit requirements. Larger covered outdoor living spaces may require additional time. Before construction begins, we’ll provide a realistic schedule so you know what to expect.

Every deck is different, so we don’t believe in quoting a simple price per square foot. Features such as stairs, railings, lighting, built-in seating, privacy screens and deck covers all influence the overall investment. We’ll prepare a detailed quotation based on your specific design.

For natural wood decks, staining is generally recommended over painting because it penetrates the wood and is easier to maintain over time. Composite decking does not require painting or staining, making it an excellent low-maintenance option.

Yes. Many homeowners choose to install a gas line for a barbecue, outdoor fireplace or patio heater during deck construction. Planning these utilities before the deck is finished creates a cleaner installation and makes your outdoor living space even more functional.

Home Building FAQs

How much does it cost per square foot to build a home?

While many builders advertise a cost per square foot, there is no single number that accurately reflects every home. The final investment depends on the home’s size, design, site conditions, level of finishing, structural requirements and the products you select. Rather than relying on a generic square-foot price, TOTL Building prepares detailed estimates based on your specific plans, giving you a much clearer understanding of your overall budget.

Siding prices vary considerably depending on the material. Vinyl is typically the most economical, engineered wood and fibre cement products such as Hardie® offer excellent durability and curb appeal, while premium materials such as natural wood, metal or specialty cladding require a larger investment. We’ll explain the advantages, maintenance requirements and long-term value of each option before making recommendations.

We manage your entire project from planning through completion while also performing many aspects of the construction ourselves. Specialized work such as electrical, plumbing, HVAC and engineering is completed by experienced licensed professionals that we know and trust. This ensures every part of your project is completed to a high standard.

Yes. We coordinate the preparation of architectural drawings and supporting documents required for permit applications. Having accurate plans at the beginning of the project helps streamline approvals and provides a clear roadmap for construction.

Yes. We regularly work with structural and specialty engineers whenever engineering is required. Whether your project involves removing load-bearing walls, building an addition or constructing a custom home, we’ll coordinate the engineering needed to ensure the project is safe and compliant.

Absolutely. We work with trusted land surveyors throughout the Lower Mainland who can provide legal surveys, site layouts and elevation information whenever a project requires it.

The timeline for a custom home depends on its size, complexity, permitting, inspections and material availability. Most custom homes require many months from planning to completion. Before construction begins, we’ll provide a realistic timeline and keep you informed throughout every stage of the project.

Every renovation is different. Smaller projects may take only a few weeks, while major home renovations or additions may take several months. During the planning stage we’ll provide a detailed construction schedule and regular progress updates so you always know what to expect.

We work with trusted cabinet manufacturers and custom cabinet makers to provide cabinetry that matches your project’s style, budget and functional requirements. This allows us to offer a wide variety of options, from semi-custom kitchens to fully custom built-ins.

We work with reputable window and door suppliers that offer quality products designed for British Columbia’s climate. During the design process we’ll recommend products that balance energy efficiency, durability, appearance and long-term value.

Yes. Landscaping can be incorporated into your overall construction project so your new home or renovation is complete both inside and out. We can coordinate hardscaping, planting, irrigation and finishing details to create a cohesive final result.

The best choice depends on your home’s design, budget and maintenance preferences. Concrete remains one of the most popular options because of its durability, while exposed aggregate, pavers and decorative finishes offer additional design possibilities. We’ll help you compare the options and choose the right solution for your property.

Yes. We coordinate foundation construction as part of new home and major addition projects. Proper excavation, forming, reinforcing and concrete placement are critical to the long-term performance of any structure, which is why we work with experienced professionals throughout this phase.

Our project management fees vary depending on the size and complexity of the work. Every quotation clearly outlines the scope of services, project management responsibilities and associated costs, ensuring complete transparency before construction begins.