Testimonials

We hired Brett and his crew to repair and remodel two cottages on Black Lake, NY. This included jacking up both foundations and pouring foundations. We then had new windows and doors installed and vinyl siding installed. We also have had a new skylight installed and roof work done on one cottage. Wiring and plumbing have been re-routed and we also had inside wall board hung on previously unfinished areas in both of the cottages.

Both cottages were in disrepair and our family decided to repair and insure they would survive into the future on Black Lake, NY. We observed a new roof installation on one of our neighbors cottage. Brett, the owner of VanSant Construction, gave us an estimate repair work for both cottages in the fall of 2007 which addressed our prime concerns of foundation work, new windows and vinyl siding. We began the work in May 2008 and added on new metal doors as well. More rotten wood was found than we originally suspected so that added onto the overall repair cost. At this time they both are in good condition with new foundations, replaced rotten wood, new metal windows and doors were installed. Both have been vinyl sided as well. From start to finish the three man crew worked, weather permitting, well as a team. The construction area was routinely cleaned up to keep debris from collecting. These two cottages were built from second hand materials in the 30’s or 40’s. Brett accepted the challenge of working with less than perfect construction material. One cottage had little studding and overall support in the front and back wall. The roof was twisting out of shape between the lack of wall support and the rotten timbers supporting one complete wall. Brett pulled the roof line back into alignment and made sure proper studding and support was put in to prevent future problems. The other cottage sits right on the water and we had always had water run down the front wall form the second story against the enclosed porch windows. The porch windows were completely rotted out. Brett suggested creating an overhang( a bump out) between the second floor and new porch windows to divert the rain away from the new windows. We just rehired Brett and his crew to perform inside finishing work inside both cottages because he has earned our trust. VanSant construction is the only repair, remodeling,reconstruction company we will hire to work on these cottages in the future. The original repair estimate was significantly less than the actual cost. We needed more raw materials to complete the job than planned for. Just like oil products, construction materials increased in cost over the six months from the estimate and actual repair time.

Major remodel of a historic cottage.

After searching for quite a while, I finally found someone who had the knowledge and willingness to take on my project. We have several additions that were beyond what many contractors considered to be worth fixing. I now know that they (other contractors) were thinking of their own interests as opposed to my own, and that although complicated and tedious, it was entirely possible and cost effective to save this historic structure. It was’t the easiest way to go, but in this case it turned out to be the right way. After the first two weeks I felt comfortable enough to expand the scope of the project well beyond what we had originally planned. After seeing what Brett VanSant was able to accomplish it only made sense to keep going with him and build the home I always wanted. I ended up with a MUCH nicer home for less money than what other professionals quoted me for my project. Brett not only was able to act as GC and perform most tasks himself, but was also able to shield me from lots of bad advice and sub-par work from sub-contractors and other “professionals”. I give Brett VanSant and the VanSant Construction crew my full endorsement and highest recommendation. Hiring Brett was a very good decision.

Rear deck replaced and part of the deck converted to screened-in porch

Very well, everyone was most considerate and professional. Several difficulties encountered in the process of construction because of the age and condition of my home were solved skillfully and I am very pleased with the result.

Some roofing/shingles needs to be replaced and wooden boards on side of balcony needed to be repaired.

Brett was professional, friendly, and kind. He had our roof and wooden boards repaired the next morning just before the heavy thunderstorms and strong winds rolled in….just as promised. If you need work done, call Brett.