Daniel Benson Builders, Inc. is a design/build firm specializing in custom design and construction of both conventionally-framed and handcrafted, full log Northwoods cottages, lodges and homes. Additionally, a large portion of our projects involve additions and renovations to many of the cottages and lake homes that were built in the area throughout the 1900's. We provide our customers with quality, personalized service during every phase of the building process - from our first contact until
the last detail is complete.


Our approach to project development promotes open communication between our customers, our staff and our subcontractors.


• We like to begin by scheduling a preliminary conference to get to know one another and discuss the proposed project. Discussion of site-specific design concepts, along with budget parameters are among the topics touched upon at this point. A face-to-face meeting is preferable, though a conference call is also an option.

 

• Early in the design process, our customers are asked to complete a Homeowner’s Decision List - a questionnaire which helps us to take project development to the next level.



• While three-dimensional, computer views of project designs are available, we prefer to schedule a day to walk customers through some of our past building projects. Feedback from previous customers has shown that nothing compares to seeing a finished home, complete with furniture and fixtures, for help in visualizing spaces, styles and design details. Since our past customers have enjoyed the same opportunity, most of these folks are happy to accomodate our requests to tour their homes.


• The design process continues with a series of meetings and phone conferences, moving from conceptual drawings to design drawings, and finally, to the working drawings for the projects. These include elevations, floor plans, foundation plans and section drawings which are essential for the next phase of project development - the estimating phase.



• At this point, a preliminary Room Finish Schedule is developed, which details what type of “finish” each room will have on floors, walls and ceilings. (For example, a kitchen might have wood paneling on all walls, ceramic tile on the floor and drywall with beams on the ceiling.)



• The working drawings and corresponding details are then sent out to our subcontractors and material suppliers. After reviewing the plans and specifications, they provide us with a written estimate of the cost for their phase of the construction. We provide our customers with a Job Cost Breakdown, itemizing all facets of the project, providing detailed notes and presenting the associated costs in a clear, logical format.



• Upon owner acceptance of our building agreement, we obtain the required permits and begin building - our favorite part. In addition to overseeing our own crew of carpenters, we’re also responsible for the efficiency and workmanship of all the subcontractors and suppliers involved in the project.



• As the project progresses, our customers are also on a schedule of sorts, since decisions need to be made during each phase of construction. We simplify that process by providing them with a decision timetable list, along with plenty of guidance from our talented staff.

 

 

• Upon completion of our projects, we provide our customers with a HOMEOWNER'S MANUAL. This large binder includes a list of all primary subcontractors and suppliers, along with their phone numbers, products warranties, a thorough explanation of how various mechanical systems operate and resulting homeowner maintenance responsibilities - particularly for those customers that are not full time residents.

• Our commitment to service doesn't end when the project is completed. We promptly respond to any "call back" or "check list items", when necessary. Our reputation is evidenced by the fact that over the years we have often been contacted by past customers to help in the development and construction of additional projects, ranging from expansions to guest houses, bunk houses and boathouses and other outbuildings on their property.