Frequently Asked Questions

Most kitchen renovations take three to six weeks depending on scope. Projects involving custom cabinetry, countertop replacement, and tile backsplashes run longer than surface-level updates. River West Construction outlines a clear timeline before work begins so you can plan around it.

WPC (wood plastic composite) is softer underfoot and works well in residential living areas, while SPC (stone plastic composite) has a denser core with superior impact resistance. SPC is the better choice for rental properties, basements, and commercial spaces that see heavy daily traffic.

Proper waterproofing requires cement board instead of standard drywall, a waterproof membrane applied at seams and corners, and a sloped mortar bed that directs water toward the drain. Skipping these steps causes walls to soften and mold to grow behind tile within two to three years.

In single-bathroom homes, we coordinate demo and installation to minimize downtime — typically one to three days without a functioning bathroom. For homes with multiple bathrooms, scheduling is more flexible. We discuss the logistics before starting so your household can plan ahead.

Vinyl buckles when subfloors aren't flat within 3/16 inch over 10 feet, when expansion gaps are skipped at room perimeters, or when moisture vapor in concrete exceeds the manufacturer's threshold. Professional substrate preparation before installation prevents all three of these problems.

Cabinets are installed before flooring in most cases. Running flooring under cabinets wastes material and creates gaps if cabinets are ever repositioned. Installing floors after cabinet work produces cleaner finished edges and protects new flooring during the heavier phases of the job.

Quartz is the top choice for durability — it doesn't require sealing, resists staining from spills, and won't chip at edges the way some natural stone can. Solid surface is a close second for low-maintenance performance and works well in kitchens with heavy daily use.

Replace subfloor when it feels soft or spongy underfoot, when moisture readings exceed the flooring manufacturer's limit, or when there's more than 3/16-inch variation over a 10-foot span. Installing new flooring over a compromised subfloor leads to premature failure regardless of the product.

Epoxy grout resists staining and mildew without annual sealing, making it the lowest-maintenance option for shower walls and bathroom floors. Standard cement grout costs less upfront but needs resealing every 12 to 18 months to prevent moisture penetration and darkening at the joints.

Yes — River West Construction handles commercial remodeling and apartment unit turns throughout West Michigan. Unit turn services restore rental units between tenants with flooring, fixture updates, and interior work done efficiently to minimize vacancy time and protect the property owner's investment.

Extending upper cabinets to the ceiling adds 30 to 40 percent more storage without expanding the kitchen's footprint. Standard cabinets leave 12 to 18 inches of dead space at the top that collects dust. Ceiling-height cabinets are ideal for seasonal appliances and bulk pantry items.

River West Construction serves Grand Rapids and surrounding West Michigan communities including Kentwood, Wyoming, and neighboring areas. Call (616) 856-7755 to confirm service availability for your location and schedule a consultation for your remodeling project.