Site Planning & Consulting

In the past twenty five years , we have been involved with numerous building sites around South Eastern Georgian Bay , Trent Severn , Huntsville , & Parry Sound .

PLAN CAREFULLY

The construction of a waterfront home has special challenges & considerations which should be supervised by seasoned professionals .

Many of our clients have owned properties on the Canadian Shield . Among other challenges , drainage , foundation systems , location of septic systems , and exposure to wind require careful consideration .

BLASTING A VALUABLE TOOL

Sometimes , blasting is required to achieve proper drainage for foundation areas . Blasting can also be a valuable tool … by allowing a full basement under a home built on bedrock , without raising the overall height of a structure unnecessarily .

Our goal is to design and build your home or cottage in such a way , that the architecture blends perfectly with the natural environment .

LOCATION OF SEPTIC

The location of an onsite sewage disposal system can be difficult when a property has limited soils or is situated on bedrock .

Our Provincially licensed staff are highly trained and experienced in the construction all types of sewage systems , particularly around waterfront properties and especially on Islands .

USE QUALITY MATERIALS

Don’t be fooled by pre-fab companies and kit home builders .

Quality materials are a must , particularly around the waterfront where the elements are ever present and can compromise your new home .

The use of a good grade of pre-finished wood siding is paramount in reducing yearly maintenance , and will ensure a great looking finished product .

Weatherproof windows and doors of good quality and with good warranties are also a must . This is an area where many pre-fab home companies try to economize at the clients’ expense .

Use a minimum of twenty five year shingles and make sure that the correct method of installation is employed for the slope of your roof .

The wind can be very unforgiving when it comes to loose or improperly installed shingles , especially on the waterfront .

COST ALLOWANCES

Many first time cottage owners struggle with cottage building budgets .

Remember ! YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR !

A quality home or four season cottage will cost a minimum of $100 per sq/ft to build , "turnkey" .

Most custom built cottages will range between $100-$130 sq/ft .

Post & Beam cottages will be between $140-$150 sq/ft .

Log Homes generally start at $150 sq / ft and go up from there depending on amenities & creature comforts !

If you are building on an Island , you should allow approx. $15-$20 SQ/FT for barging and transportation .

Septic systems , docks , utilities , and water systems are extra !

We hope these guidelines are helpful in planning your dream home …

Please call us for more information , or to set up a consultation on your job site .

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