Frequently Asked Questions
Our most frequently asked questions from homeowners about us and our home remodeling services we execute across Portland, OR and SW Washington.
FAQ's: Lamont Bros. Design & Construction
What is a Design-Build Firm?
A design-build firm is a single company that handles both the design and construction of a remodeling project under one roof. Rather than hiring a separate architect or designer and then finding a contractor to execute the work, homeowners work with one team from the initial concept through the final build. This streamlines communication, reduces the risk of costly miscommunication between designers and contractors, and gives homeowners a single point of accountability for the entire project from start to finish.
Learn More:
How a Design-Build Firm Keeps You in Charge of the Cost
Design-Build vs. General Contractor
What are our Six Promises We Make To You
We'll communicate with you every step of the way. We'll respond to your questions and concerns, quickly and intelligently. That's how we ensure your project's success.
We'll design an amazing space with you, and for you. Your personality, your aesthetic, your hopes, and your dreams. Your project will reflect you and it will be amazing.
We'll keep you in charge of the cost. We don't low-ball to get in the door and increase it after we start. We'll create budgets for the concepts we create so you know what you're getting into.
We'll respect you and your home. We'll treat your property with dignity and respect, the same care we'd give our own.
We're with you from start to finish. You'll have a team dedicated to consistent progress from start to completion. We won't leave you hanging.
We'll stand behind our work. Our warranty varies on the product and project from one year to your lifetime. But we aren't picky about the warranty period. If you ever experience a problem, let us know and we'll address it. We're here for the long run.
Are we the Right Fit For Your Home Remodel?
We are the right fit for large-scale, design-oriented remodeling projects where the details matter as much as the end result. Kitchens, bathrooms, whole-home renovations, additions, ADUs, and basement finishing are the types of projects we are built for. These are scopes that require a cohesive design process, coordination across multiple trades, and careful sequencing to bring everything together cleanly. We work best with homeowners who have a vision for their space and want a team that can translate that vision into a finished product with intention and craftsmanship. If you are looking for a quick fix or a single-trade job, we will be upfront that another contractor is probably a better fit. But if you are ready to invest in a transformation that is going to change how you live in your home, that is exactly the kind of project we get excited about.
How long does the design-build process take?
The timeline for our design-build process depends on the scope and complexity of your project. The design phase alone can take several months before construction ever begins. This includes initial consultations, developing elevation concepts, selecting materials and fixtures, finalizing architectural drawings, and securing permits. We move through this process deliberately because the decisions made during design directly affect how smoothly construction goes. Rushing through it tends to create problems and added costs down the line. Once we move into construction, the timeline depends on the size of the project, the trades involved, and material lead times. When you reach out to us, one of the first things we will do is give you a realistic picture of what the timeline looks like for your specific project so there are no surprises along the way.
What happens at a proposal meeting?
The proposal meeting is where we present a full budget breakdown so you have a clear understanding of what the project costs and why. We go through each element of the scope individually, explaining the cost implications of the decisions that have been made so far and helping you understand where there is flexibility and where there is not. This is also the time where we can talk through alternatives if something comes in higher than expected, whether that means adjusting materials, phasing the project differently, or revisiting certain aspects of the scope. Our goal in this meeting is to make sure you feel completely informed before you commit to anything. We never want cost to be a surprise, and the proposal meeting is how we make sure it is not. If everything makes sense and you feel confident moving forward, that is when we get to work on the next steps together.
What is the Lamont Bros. Design & Construction Warranty?
One of our six company promises is that we'll stand behind our work. Our warranty varies on the product and project from one year to your lifetime. But we aren't picky about the warranty period. If you ever experience a problem, let us know, and we'll address it. We're here for the long run.
What is a Fixed Cost Contract?
A fixed cost contract is a project agreement where the total price for the work is established before construction begins, giving homeowners a clear understanding of what their remodel will cost upfront. Instead of charging based on time and materials as the project progresses, the contractor develops detailed plans, selections, and scope of work in advance so the project can be completed for an agreed-upon price. At Lamont Bros. Design & Construction, this approach benefits homeowners by creating greater financial certainty, reducing the risk of unexpected costs, and improving overall project planning. Because so much effort goes into defining the design, materials, and construction details early in the process, clients can move into construction with confidence knowing their budget, timeline, and expectations are aligned from the start.
What does the process look like for a returning client?
The process is the same regardless of whether you are a new or returning client. It still involves a site walkthrough, measurements, and a formal proposal meeting where costs are broken down before any decisions are made.
Learn more:
What is the FIR program and why does it matter?
The FIR (Field Issuance Remodel) Program is a City of Portland permitting program that streamlines the approval process for residential remodeling projects by allowing certified contractors to work directly with a dedicated inspector from start to finish. Instead of going through multiple departments and lengthy review timelines, FIR-certified contractors can often secure permits much faster through on-site collaboration and simplified inspections. The program applies to many types of residential remodels, including kitchens, bathrooms, basements, additions, and whole-home renovations, helping homeowners complete projects more efficiently with fewer delays and inspection surprises.
FAQ's: Our Showroom
Where is the Lamont Bros. showroom located, and do I need an appointment?
Our showroom is located in West Linn, Oregon, just off Highway 43 and you're welcome to swing by. A member of our team is always here to chat with curious homeowners. If you'd like to have a more in-depth conversation with our team, the best practice is to schedule a virtual call first via our website. If you'd prefer to meet in person, give us a call so that we can be sure one of our Design Consultants is available at the time of your visit.
What happens during a showroom visit with Lamont Bros.?
Your showroom visit is where the design process gets real. After an initial consultation and home visit, your project consultant prepares a detailed proposal and budget tailored to your project. You'll come into the showroom to review it together — this is our crossroads meeting where we make sure the scope, investment, and timeline all align before moving forward. If we're further into design, the showroom is also where selections meetings happen: you'll see tile samples, material finishes, cabinetry options, and more in person so you can make confident decisions.
Can I see tile, cabinetry, and material samples at the Lamont Bros. showroom?
Yes. Our showroom is stocked with tile samples, material finishes, cabinetry styles, and fixture options so you can see and feel your choices before committing. For clients in the design phase, we hold dedicated selections meetings at the showroom where your designer walks you through curated options matched to your project's style and budget. Seeing materials in person — rather than on a screen — makes a significant difference in how confident you'll feel about your final selections.
Do both homeowners need to attend the showroom meeting?
We strongly encourage it. Showroom visits — especially proposal reviews and selections meetings — involve decisions that affect your home, your budget, and your timeline. When both partners are present, conversations move faster, decisions stick, and you leave with a clear shared vision. If one partner can't make it, we're happy to reschedule to a time that works for everyone. These meetings are too important to do twice.
Is the Lamont Bros. showroom only for current clients, or can anyone visit?
Our showroom is open to anyone considering a remodel — you don't need to be a current client to visit. If you've been curious about us, maybe you've driven by on the 43 or seen our work online, a showroom visit is a great way to meet our team, see finished project photography, and get a feel for how we work. Just reach out to schedule a time and we'll make sure someone is available to walk you through everything.
FAQ's: Kitchen Remodels
How long does a kitchen remodel take?
Our standard kitchen remodeling projects typically take 8-12 weeks from planning to completion. This process includes developing a budget, creating a design, removing the old kitchen, installing new plumbing and electrical, framing, drywall, flooring, cabinets, countertops, appliances, and lighting, followed by final details and cleanup.
For a detailed look at a typical kitchen remodeling timeline, click here:
Kitchen Remodel Process: Complete Timeline & Step-by-Step Guide
How much does a kitchen remodel cost?
Lamont Bros. kitchen remodeling projects cover a range of prices and services. Here's what some typical projects look like:
A simple cosmetic refresh, such as painting cabinets, updating appliances, or installing new countertops could fall in the $70,000 - $90,000 range.
A pull-and-replace project involves removing everything in the kitchen (cabinets, appliances, floors, fixtures) and replacing with new. This typically runs around $90,000 - $150,000.
A full custom remodel would include moving walls, plumbing, and electrical, to create a new floorplan, in addition to installing new fixtures, cabinets, floors, etc. This kind of project will be around $150,000 - $350,000+
Kitchen Remodel Financing: Complete Guide to Home Renovation Loans & Options
What kind of countertops should I get?
The best countertop for your home depends on how you use your kitchen, your aesthetic preferences, and your maintenance comfort level. During the design process, we help you compare materials like quartz, granite, and natural stone so you can choose a surface that balances durability, style, and upkeep.
See more about how to pick the best kitchen countertops here:
Kitchen Countertops: Guide to Materials, Durability & Cost
Quartz vs. Granite: What’s the Difference?
Good Better Best: Countertops
What are my options for kitchen cabinet materials?
Kitchen cabinets are typically made from solid wood, plywood, MDF, or a combination of materials, each offering different levels of durability, cost, and finish options.
We help you select cabinet materials that align with your style preferences, budget, and how your kitchen will be used day to day. Here are more resources on how to choose the best kitchen cabinet materials:
Water Resistant Kitchen Cabinets: What’s the Best Material to Use?
MDF Or Plywood Cabinets: Which Is Better?
Painted vs. Stained Cabinets: Which is Right for Your Kitchen?
Laminate vs. Wood Cabinets: Which is Best?
What kind of sink should I get when I remodel my kitchen?
The right kitchen sink depends on how you cook and clean, as well as your overall design style. Options range from undermount and farmhouse sinks to integrated and workstation sinks, and we’ll help you choose one that balances function, durability, and aesthetics. Here are more resources on choosing your next kitchen sink:
Workstation Sinks: Our Top Picks
Workstation Sinks: Uses, Benefits, and Costs
What's the best material for my kitchen floor?
As a heavily trafficked area, your kitchen floor needs a durable material that will withstand years of use.
Whether you choose wood floors, laminate, linoleum, cork, or something else, your designer will help you pick the best option for your design, floor plan, and lifestyle.
Click here for more ideas about kitchen flooring:
Kitchen Flooring Options: How to Choose
How do I choose the best kitchen appliances for my remodel?
The best kitchen appliances are chosen based on how you cook, the size and layout of your kitchen, and the level of performance you expect. We help you evaluate appliance types, sizes, energy efficiency, and feature sets so everything fits properly, functions reliably, and integrates seamlessly into your overall design. For more ideas on choosing your kitchen appliances, click here:
Kitchen Appliances: Selecting the Right Options for Your Lifestyle
Do you handle permits and inspections?
Yes. Lamont Bros. manages permits, inspections, and coordination with local authorities, allowing you to focus on the exciting parts of your remodel.
Where can I learn more about kitchen remodeling?
Our Kitchen Remodeling resource center is full of informative articles, resources, and guides about kitchen remodeling. Find it here:
FAQ's: Bathroom Remodels
How long does a bathroom remodel usually take?
Bathroom remodel timelines vary based on scope and complexity, but most projects take several weeks from demolition through completion. Finalizing design details before construction helps keep the schedule predictable.
Find a detailed explanation here:
How Long Does It Take to Remodel a Bathroom?
What's the average cost of a bathroom remodel?
The scope of the remodeling project will affect the total cost, given the labor and materials needed. A simple cosmetic refresh can range from $10,000 to $75,000, and a full custom remodel can range from $25,000 to upwards of $200,000 or more. For a full explanation of what goes into the pricing of a bathroom remodel, see these resources:
How Much Does It Cost to Remodel a Bathroom in Portland?
Bathroom Remodel Cost Breakdown
Budgeting For a Bathroom Remodel: 6 Things to Keep in Mind
What type of shower or tub should I choose?
The right choice depends on how you use your bathroom, available space, and comfort preferences. We help you compare walk-in showers, tub-shower combinations, and soaking tubs to find the best fit.
Read more about choosing showers and tubs here:
How to Choose a Bathtub For Your Bathroom Remodel
Does a Master Bathroom Need a Bathtub?
Tub to Shower Conversion - A Popular Choice for Any Bathroom Remodel
What materials work best in a bathroom?
Bathrooms require materials that handle moisture, humidity, and daily use. We guide you toward surfaces, finishes, and fixtures that balance durability, safety, and style.
Good Better Best: Shower Glass for Your Bathroom
How do I choose what fixtures to use?
Bathroom fixtures play a big role in how the space functions day to day, so we help you choose options that feel intuitive to use and hold up well over time. Your designer can suggest ideal fixture options that match the style, finishes, and overall design of your bathroom remodel. Read more here:
Good Better Best: Bathroom Sinks & Faucets
Good Better Best: Plumbing Fixtures for Your Bathroom
Can a bathroom remodel improve accessibility?
Yes. Features like curbless showers, improved lighting, wider clearances, and supportive layouts can significantly improve safety and ease of use without sacrificing design.
Read more about how a bathroom remodel can help with aging-in-place:
How to Remodel a Bathroom for Aging in Place
Aging in Place Bathroom Design Ideas
Do you handle permits and inspections for bathroom remodels?
Yes. Lamont Bros. manages permits, inspections, and coordination with local authorities to ensure your bathroom remodel meets all applicable codes.
FAQ's: Whole Home Remodeling
Do I need to move out during a whole home remodel?
Sometimes, but not always. Depending on the scope and phasing of the work, we can help you decide whether staying in your home is practical or if temporary relocation will make the process easier. Read more about it here:
Can I Live at Home During My Remodel?
How long does a whole home remodel usually take?
Whole home remodels take longer than single-room projects because of their scope and complexity. Finalizing design details early allows us to create a realistic schedule and keep construction moving efficiently. Read more here:
Whole House Remodeling: How Long Does the Process Take?
Can we remodel our home to change the layout?
Yes. Many whole home remodels include reworking floor plans to improve flow, function, and how spaces connect, while ensuring all changes are structurally sound and code-compliant.
How is budgeting handled for a whole home remodel?
Budgeting starts during design, where priorities are established and tradeoffs are explored. This approach helps align scope and cost early, reducing the risk of surprises during construction. Find more answers here:
How Do I Accurately Estimate My Home Remodeling Costs?
How to Secure Home Improvement Financing in 7 Steps
Will everything in the house be updated at once?
Not necessarily. Some projects are completed in phases to manage disruption, accommodate occupancy, or prioritize certain areas of the home. Here's more about the process:
What To Expect During a Home Remodel
FAQ's: Home Additions
How do I know if my home can support an addition?
Every home and property has different constraints, including lot size, zoning rules, and structural capacity. The first step is evaluating what’s feasible before design begins.
How does Floor Area Ratio affect my Portland home addition?
Is it better to build out or build up?
That depends on your lot, budget, and goals. Building out typically requires more site work, while building up involves structural reinforcement—both options have tradeoffs we help you evaluate.
Should I build my addition up or out?
Second Story Additions: What to Consider Before You Get Started
Can I Do Addition Over My Garage? Yes. Here's How.
How long does a home addition usually take?
Timelines vary based on size and complexity, but home additions typically take several months from design through construction. Finalizing plans early helps keep the build phase predictable.
How long does it take to build a home addition?
Will the addition match the rest of my house?
Yes. Additions are designed to integrate with your home’s existing architecture, rooflines, and materials so the new space feels cohesive rather than separate.
Do home additions require permits?
Yes. Additions require permits and inspections to meet zoning and building code requirements, which we manage as part of the project.
What typically drives the cost of a home addition?
Factors such as size, structural work, site conditions, system extensions, and finish selections all influence cost. Clear scope definition early helps avoid surprises later.
How Much Does a Home Addition Cost in Portland
Portland Home Additions: Average Costs to Help You Budget
FAQ's: ADU Design & Construction
Can I build an ADU on my property?
In many cases, yes—but it depends on zoning rules, your lot size, setbacks, and where the ADU would be located. We start by confirming feasibility so you know what’s realistically possible before design begins.
Portland’s ADU Rules: A Complete Guide (Updated 2026)
Should I build a detached ADU or convert an existing space?
Detached ADUs offer the most privacy and flexibility, while garage or basement conversions can reduce structural work by using an existing footprint. The best option depends on your property layout, budget, and how you plan to use the space.
ADU vs. Home Addition: What's the Difference?
Do ADUs require separate utilities?
Not always, but utility planning is a big part of ADU construction. Depending on the project, we may extend existing services or explore options like separate metering for long-term rental use.
Can an ADU be used as a rental?
Often, yes. Many homeowners build ADUs specifically for long-term rental income. Local rules can affect rental use, so we help you plan the space with those requirements in mind.
Your Portland ADU Questions Answered
How much does it cost to build an ADU?
ADU costs depend on size, site conditions, utility work, and finish selections. We help clarify costs early so you can make informed decisions about scope and priorities before construction starts.
4 Common Types of ADUs and What They Cost
FAQ's: Basement Remodeling
How do I know if my basement is a good candidate for finishing?
A good basement finishing project starts with evaluating moisture conditions, ceiling height, and access to utilities. If those fundamentals are workable, we can design a space that feels comfortable and performs well long-term.
How to Convert a Crawlspace Into a Basement
Can I Raise the Ceiling Height in My Basement? Yes. Here's How.
Do I need waterproofing before I remodel my basement?
If there are signs of water intrusion, dampness, or humidity issues, it’s important to address them during a basement remodel. Moisture control is one of the biggest factors in whether a finished basement holds up over time.
How to Waterproof Your Basement
Can I add a bedroom in my basement?
Often, yes. But basement bedrooms usually require code-compliant egress for safety. We help plan the layout around those requirements so the space is comfortable, functional, and approved through permitting.
How and Why To Add an Egress Window To Your Basement
What rooms are most popular in a finished basement?
Basements are great for family rooms, media spaces, guest suites, home offices, gyms, and play areas. The best layouts usually include a mix of open space and dedicated zones so the basement can adapt over time.
Finished Basement Ideas for Every Home and Lifestyle
Can I add a bathroom, kitchen, or wet bar to my basement?
Yes, but below-grade plumbing needs careful planning for drains, venting, and reliable performance. We design these features so they function properly and integrate cleanly into the overall space.
Creative Basement Bar Ideas to Inspire Your Next Remodel
What affects the cost of basement finishing?
Costs depend on factors like the size of the space, moisture mitigation needs, ceiling constraints, bathroom additions, and finish selections. We help you prioritize features and make smart tradeoffs so the basement fits your goals and budget.
Basement Remodel Cost Breakdown
FAQ's: Insurance Restorations
Do you work directly with insurance companies in Portland?
Yes. Lamont Bros. Design & Construction regularly coordinates with insurance adjusters serving Portland, West Linn, Lake Oswego, Beaverton, and Oregon City. We provide detailed scopes of work, material specifications, and cost documentation to support accurate claim review.
Learn more: Best Insurance Restoration Companies in Portland
Can you match existing custom cabinetry and trim?
Yes. Our team has experience replicating custom millwork, detailed trim profiles, and specialty finishes. Matching existing craftsmanship is often one of the most important aspects of high-quality restoration.
Learn more: What Type of Contractor is Best for Insurance Repair?
Is Lamont Bros. Design & Construction a preferred insurance vendor?
We are not part of high-volume preferred vendor programs.
This allows us to define scope based on the actual conditions of your home rather than preset pricing structures. Our priority is restoring your home accurately and transparently, while working in cooperation with your insurance company to get fair value for the work that needs to be done.
Learn more: Insurance Preferred Providers vs Independent Contractors
How long does fire or water damage restoration take?
Timelines vary depending on scope, permitting requirements, and insurance approvals. Large-loss reconstruction projects in the Portland area often range from several months to over a year. We provide clear scheduling expectations once scope and funding are defined.
What types of homes do you typically restore?
We most often restore higher-value homes with detailed finishes, extensive remodeling history, architect-designed features, or any higher value home that has experienced large-scale loss.
This includes historic homes in Portland neighborhoods, lakefront homes in Lake Oswego, hillside properties in West Linn, and custom homes in Oregon City and Beaverton, as well as homes in traditional developments.
Do you provide restoration services outside Portland?
We primarily serve the Portland metro area, including West Linn, Lake Oswego, Beaverton, and Oregon City.
If you are located nearby and have a large-loss project, we are open to discussing fit.
What is considered a large-loss insurance restoration project?
Homes that experience significant structural damage, require complex repairs, involve multi-room damage, or where most of the structure must be repaired or replaced are considered “large loss.”
Learn more: 6 Things to Understand About Your Homeowner's Insurance Policy
