Frequently Asked Questions

Below are the questions we are frequently asked about our services. If you still have additional questions, feel free to contact Duane Wilson at (619) 838-1687.

What is the process your company would use for my remodeling job?

FIRST - We prefer to begin at your home. Since this is where the work will take place we want to see the design details you intend to keep and we need to find the location of critical details such as electrical, plumbing, and structural framing.

SECOND - We put together a bid including labor and construction materials, and an estimated amount for finish materials such as cabinets, countertops, tile, lights and other materials required for your job. You will also receive a reference list so you may contact our previous clients.

THIRD - After you have reviewed the bid and contacted our previous clients we need to begin designing your project. We set up a time to meet you at our showroom to look at cabinets. We will also set up appointments to look at countertops, tile, plumbing fixtures, appliances, lighting, paint colors and all other required design details of your project.

FOURTH - We collect a small design fee and begin to work on the details of your project. It usually takes at least 3 or 4 design meetings to work out the details of materials and placement.

FIFTH - Once the design is complete we have two cost totals, one for labor and material and one for all your finish materials. By combining these two numbers we have the cost of your remodel. We may encounter issues that need to be handled during your project that are unforeseen, so we recommend you allow 5-10% above the contracted cost to pay for hidden problems such as termite damage or previous code violations.

SIXTH - We meet to verify the finish materials and details of the job, sign a contract, and set a start date.

How do I know the materials I pick will work with my project?

There are many options available to make your new kitchen or bathroom beautiful and we expect you to have lots of questions. So you not only have a designer to accompany you when making your selections, you also have an experienced craftsman familiar with the installation process. The additional assistance helps you keep abreast of your remodel choices and expenses. While no contractor can guarantee the installation will be exactly as planned, we will make every effort to identify installation challenges so we are prepared to make your project work.

I’m not looking for a typical remodel, can you do extreme custom?

These projects are our favorite jobs. They get us away from the remove and replace tasks of many remodel jobs. We have been asked to build a shower surround and door using elevator doors from France built in the 1500’s, create a water fall on the back wall of a shower, suspend countertops in mid air, and much, much more. If you have an unusual idea and you are looking for a contractor that will find a way to make it happen, then give us a call. We love these types of challenges.

What type of workers can I expect in my home?

We do not use sub contractors for the day-to-day work in your home. Countertop and glass work are performed by sub contractors we have worked with for many years, but all other work is performed by employees of Cornerstone Design and Remodel. We maintain a high level of trust and confidence with our clients in the work we perform and the quality of people we put in their homes. The only way to control the schedule, quality of work, and provide a team of talented, trustworthy and caring individuals is to build a team that works together year after year. Check out our Google and Yelp reviews, and call our previous clients. They are your best resources since they have already opened their home to our team.

Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?

Yes, we have a California contractor license, we carry liability insurance, are bonded as required by the state of California, and we maintain worker’s compensation insurance for all our employees.

What cities do you work with?

We work with most cities in San Diego county and we also work with the County for unincorporated areas.

What if my project requires plans and permits?

We handle all the details including plans, permits and any engineering work that needs to be submitted.

What if I want to expand the living space or move walls?

We perform room additions as well as moving interior walls. We also take care of all the details including the moving of plumbing and electrical, and the installation of windows and doors.

Can we buy only the cabinets or purchase a design without install?

Yes, we will design and sell you cabinets without installation if you already have a contractor to handle the rest of your job. Or we can design your entire project and hand the details over to your contractor. But, realize that we do not take responsibility for any work performed by your contractor and your contractor will need to verify square footages, materials counts, and final design details.

What should I expect to pay for my bathroom remodel?

It is very difficult to estimate what you will spend without knowing what materials you want to use for your remodel. Tile design and fixture selection can increase the cost of a bathroom remodel significantly. The typical small bathroom remodel, such as a hall bathroom using mid grade materials will vary between $15,000 and $25,000. A larger bathroom such as a master bathroom with a tub and a shower using mid grade materials will vary between $35,000 and $45,000. These costs may or may not apply to your remodel depending on the level of design and materials selected. We often remodel bathrooms costing well over $100,000.

What should I expect to pay for my kitchen remodel?

It is more difficult to estimate the cost of a kitchen remodel, than a bathroom remodel. Our kitchen remodels start at $40,000 for a small kitchen and can cost well over $200,000 for a larger kitchen. The materials you select affect your final cost significantly. The typical mid-sized kitchen in San Diego costs between $60,000-$80,000.

How long does it take to complete a kitchen remodel?

Most kitchens can be completed in 6 weeks. Moving walls, adding electrical, rearranging plumbing and appliances can all add to the timeline, so be sure to check with us for your specific project.

Other contractors have told me they can finish my project sooner, why?

At Cornerstone Design and Remodel we don’t cut corners. We will not rush your project and leave you with future problems. Our techniques require dry times for everything from drywall to paint to hot mops and we will not rush it for the sake of time. Give us the time we need and we will give you a project that last until you are ready to remodel again.

What hours does your team work?

We work from 8:30 to 4:30 on most days.

Does Cornerstone Design and Remodel offer financing?

No, we do not finance. However, we do accept VISA, MasterCard, and Diners Club.