The Steps and Process of working with Preservation Timber
Before we begin- A driving principle at Preservation Timber is to build and repair wooden items that will last for generations. The custom builds that I create are Heirloom quality. There is a partnership between you and your furniture. With the right care and proper application, solid wood furniture can easily be in service longer than it took to grow the lumber used to build them.
Every project is different and it's the details that matter. That being said, the general movement of work tends to flow in the same direction.
Please allow me to share with you what it's like to work with Preservation Timber. This is just a rough outline of a possible experience. Information is key- please share any details you have with me. Remember- I am here to work with you and help you along the way.
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The Connection:
You found my website and would like to chat, that's great! I always look forward to learning about new projects.
Due to the nature of a noisy shop, email is always the best way to contact me. Through email, we can schedule a phone consultation or a visit to your home to look at your project.
The Consultation:
Custom Build-
What is the overall project/scope of work?
Where will the piece be used?
What are the specific requirements you have?
What styles, colors, wood species do you like?
What is your timeline?
What is your budget?
What other comments or concerns do you have?
Repair or Restoration-
Let me know all the details you know about the piece- age, origin, any construction details you know, even its meaning to you and your family.
What is your end goal, what needs to be accomplished?
What timeframe do you have?
What is your budget?
What issues do you have with the piece, even after restoration?
What other comments or concerns do you have?
*** Reference photos are incredibly helpful, please provide any you have.***
The Scope of Work Estimate:
Custom Build-
An estimated cost to build a piece that will fulfill your Scope of work will be presented to you. This will include dimensions, wood species, color notes, average build times and any other notable info.
The Purpose of the estimate is to establish a working relationship.
Repair or Restoration-
The estimated cost to repair/restore your piece will be presented to you. Due to the nature of restoration work, there may be unknown areas that require more work than previously estimated.
There are 2 main areas in addition to the estimate that will be discussed.
Scope Creep- The increase of work needed to complete the job. In this case it's usually more work that needs to be done to address unforeseen situations.
Irreversible Damage- Things happen, even with best practices in place. Some pieces are too far gone to realistically restore with major flaws hidden under the surface. That said, even in the worst of circumstances, a piece may be recreated.
**In the case of a deviation from the original estimate, written authorization will be required from the client in order to move forward.
Design Requirements-
Some projects, generally custom builds, require a plan set and/or designs. This step can range from a simple drawing to a ¼” scale drawing that shows different elevations and designs.
Some projects require these designs to be completed in order to create an accurate price for the work.
Plans, designs and the like will be billed at the current shop hourly rate. Once these plans, designs and the like are completed and paid for, the client may choose to take a copy of them for their own use.
The Contract-
At this stage, the client may choose to enter a contract to have Preservation TImber commence the project.
50% is required before the project starts and is put on the schedule. The remaining 50% will be required at the delivery. Any work outside of the original scope of work will need to be authorized by the client and paid for when it has been completed.
The Schedule-
A signed contract with a deposit collected is required to get your project on the schedule. Your project can be canceled at any time with a full refund up until the time when materials are purchased. An estimated time frame will be given that notes the start date and the end date.
During the project-
Please feel free to reach out to me during the project for updates and with any questions you may have. I do enjoy the educational aspect of the work and am happy to chat throughout the project.
The Delivery-
Once the project is complete, the delivery will be scheduled. Once you take possession of your piece, the remaining 50% of the total contract is due at the delivery.
The future is the goal-
A huge part of the success of your solid wood piece is the aftercare. The finishes and treatments that I typically use are designed to help the wood on the surface and deep in the grain. These are food safe and can be maintained and repaired all throughout the years of service. I will guide you through the best practices to help keep the piece looking great and last for years.
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I do appreciate your time and hope that you found this guide informative. Please let me know if you have questions or would like additional information.
Reach out to tell me about your needs. How is your kitchen table looking? Shelves a little beat up? Missing that one piece of furniture to tie a room together? Need some ideas?
I look forward to working with you. Thanks very much.
Adam