Summer is the peak season for remodeling. With a full schedule of projects to complete, it’s essential for our team to be efficient and on task to not only deliver amazing projects and memorable experiences but also to do so within the agreed-upon timeframe with the homeowners.
For our carpenters, that means precise planning and execution of tasks each day to meet these goals. From material orders, management of trade partners and communication with both the team and the homeowners, our carpenters are always on the move.
In this post, you get a behind-the-scenes look at what a typical day looks like for one of our talented carpenters, Blake Lancour.
6:30 AM - Mental Prep and Load Up
Blake explained how crucial it is to be mentally prepared for the day. He visualizes the day ahead and ensures he has all the necessary tools, materials, and site support for his activities. “Our days are anything but repetitive. That is why it is important to maintain a routine and ready yourself each morning,” Blake says.
7:00 AM - Arrival & Game Plan
Once on-site, Blake unloads his tools and sets up his work area. He and his team spend time reviewing the previous day’s work, checking quality, and outlining the priorities for the morning. “We like to spend that time together as a team to ensure we’re all on the same page and the work area is ready for us so we can be as effective as possible. We always say, ‘Plan your work and work your plan.” Blake explains.
Job site cleanliness and protection are top priorities throughout the project. Floor protection, plastic sheathing between rooms, dust containment systems, and safeguarding of the homeowner’s personal property are all adjusted and maintained for optimal performance.
7:30 AM - Time to Get to Work
By now, the crew is in full swing, working to accomplish the day’s tasks. Blake says, “Communication with our trade partners and material suppliers is essential to getting the most out of the day. We work on the “3, 2, 1” system with all our partners. We contact them three weeks in advance to inform them of their targeted dates, followed by two-week and one-week reminders to provide an accurate timeline and a seamless integration into our schedule.”
The project site can be a busy scene. Along with the work being performed, our carpenters make it a priority to ensure the safety of everyone on the site and the protection of our clients' homes and personal possessions.
“As carpenters, we are always on the lookout for potential pitfalls. Oftentimes, we’re in a client’s home while they’re still living there. People may be coming and going, so we need to make sure the jobsite is as safe as possible by keeping materials properly stacked and out of the way, and by ensuring tools that could cause injuries are out of harm’s way, Blake said
12:00 PM - Lunch
Lunch provides a welcome break and refueling for the remainder of the day. For Blake, it’s also great spending time with his teammates. “Sometimes we’re talking about what the afternoon plans are and other times we’re just laughing about something that happened that day,” Blake says. “The great part of our team is that we truly enjoy working together. It’s a great group of friends.”
Afternoon Progress
The completion of the day’s tasks continues. But inevitably, unexpected events will arise that require a shift in those plans. Quick team meetings on the site are essential for understanding the new dynamics and finding the best solution to move forward. In some cases, the Remodeling Consultant in charge of the design and/or our production management staff may join them to provide insight and gain an understanding of the situation.
“Our Remodeling Consultants, Jeff, Olivia, Lynne, Dana and Chopper are always willing to either jump on a phone call or stop out to the job site when questions arise. Our Production Management Team of Ryan and Ryan is also super supportive,” Blake said.
Another aspect of the team we are so proud of is the on-site training that occurs between the more experienced carpenters and those carpenters looking to build their skill levels.
“We don’t all know everything, and there’s always something to learn. The afternoon is a great time for those quick educational opportunities,” Blake notes.
3:00 PM – Clean Up
Blake and the team always leave the job site clean and ready for the day to follow. Materials are stacked and secured. Tools are either loaded up on the carpenter’s truck or stored safely, out or the way for the evening. Weekdays get a quick sweep, while Fridays are more extensive, including a full vacuum and thorough cleanup, preparing the home for the weekend, especially when homeowners are living there.
3:30 PM – Wrap Up & Head Home
Before heading home, our crew reviews the day and creates a plan for what’s needed the next day. Then, it’s time to head home, rest up, recharge, and get ready for the next day.
Why Blake’s Work Matters
The dedication to quality and teamwork that Blake and his teammates display every day is what makes Stebnitz Builders' projects run smoothly and deliver such a wonderful experience for our clients.
“Every day is different, and that’s what keeps it interesting. Seeing the progress we’ve made and knowing how much the client will love their home when it’s complete is what makes the job so rewarding,” says Blake.
Our team of carpenters is among the most driven in the industry, bringing professionalism and focus to every phase of the project. If you’re interested in learning more about working with us on your next remodeling project, click the link here!