Learning · Selections
Selecting finishes
Board habits for cabinets, counters, tile, fixtures, and color decisions that keep bids comparable. Not product endorsements or price lists.
Finish selection habits (illustrative)
Selection stewardship
- Build a finish schedule (room × surface × product × allowance) shared with every bidder.
- Freeze wet-area waterproofing system before tile showroom days.
- Separate structural/MEP decisions from cosmetic selections so bids stay comparable.
- Photograph samples under your home’s light; phone photos lie.
- Confirm lead times in writing before promising a start date.
- Track OFCI deliveries with signatures; damaged crates are harder to dispute later.
- Keep cut sheets and color codes in the owner file for punch and future repairs.
- Do not let incomplete selections silently become contractor delay without documentation.
Change orders & allowances · Materials index · Kitchen cost factors · Bathroom cost factors
Selecting finishes FAQ
When should finishes be locked?
Before long-lead orders whenever possible. Late tile, cabinet, or fixture changes are classic change-order fuel — see change orders & allowances.
Should everything be owner-furnished?
Owner-furnished can save markup but shifts delivery, damage, and fit risk to you. Spell OFCI vs CFCI in the contract for each category.
Does the Board endorse brands?
No. The materials index links manufacturer resources for education only — not prices or warranties from the Board.
Board feature
Another Story
Same home. Another story. Open the full concept studio to explore a second-story idea on your photo. Concept preview only, not a bid or permit document.