Frequently Asked Questions

Henry Ford said that quality is doing it right when no one is looking. At Behan Construction, fine quality means doing the work with the intention of having each detail last for generations. It’s carpentry you can stand back from and admire—work that catches the eye of even those unfamiliar with craftsmanship.

We live in a world where many things are produced quickly and cheaply, made to last perhaps a decade before replacement. In contrast, I’ve worked on homes as old as our country that still showcase detailed, sturdy woodwork after 250 years. This legacy inspires our approach to every project.

The craftsman mentality hasn’t changed—only perhaps the percentage of tradesmen who embrace it. We work alongside those who take immense pride in their work, whether creating trim work and custom built-ins or integrating modern function into historic buildings. We take the time to do it right.

Yes, we offer complimentary initial consultations for all projects. For straightforward renovations with clearly defined parameters, we can provide a basic estimate at no charge.

For the sophisticated, custom projects that are our specialty—such as historical renovations, barn conversions, or high-end additions—we recommend our comprehensive pre-construction planning service. This valuable process allows us to thoroughly explore design options, material selections, and construction approaches tailored to your unique property.

Pre-construction planning provides our high-end clients with several benefits:

• Detailed exploration of various design possibilities
• Accurate cost projections based on specific material selections
• Identification of potential challenges before construction begins
• A clear roadmap for project execution
• Confidence that every aspect of your vision has been considered

This thoughtful approach not only ensures peace of mind but also results in a more streamlined construction process and an exceptional finished product that meets our exacting standards for craftsmanship and quality.

Every renovation project follows a thoughtful sequence to ensure efficiency and quality. We typically begin with a comprehensive assessment of your home’s existing conditions, focusing on structural elements that may need attention before cosmetic updates. Next comes the design phase where we finalize layout changes and material selections. Demolition follows, then rough-in work (framing, electrical, plumbing), followed by insulation, drywall, and finally finishes (flooring, cabinetry, paint, etc.). Throughout our design and build process, we maintain clear communication about timeline expectations and coordinate all trades to ensure seamless progression.

Creating a detached luxury garage involves considerations beyond basic storage. For high-end automobile spaces, considerations include climate control systems, specialized lighting, custom flooring, security features, and architectural integration with your main residence. The investment varies based on size, level of finishes, and technical requirements. A basic but well-constructed detached garage starts at one price point, while a premium automotive showcase with climate control, custom cabinetry, and entertainment features represents a more substantial investment. During our consultation, we can discuss your specific needs for vehicle storage, workshop space, or specialty use to provide appropriate investment ranges.

Absolutely! You can live quite luxuriously in a barn if you’d like. The term “barndominium” has gained popularity as a barn converted to living space. Make no mistake, they’re typically far larger than condominiums and offer endless possibilities. The classic beauty of a barn on the outside and the luxury of a unique home on the inside is the ultimate living situation for some. High ceilings and loads of character are a beautiful aesthetic that when approached correctly offer all the function and flow of modern life.

Barndominium conversions represent a unique investment that varies significantly based on several key factors, including:

• The barn’s existing structural integrity and condition
• Your desired level of luxury finishes and custom craftsmanship
• The complexity of integrating modern systems while preserving historical character
• The scope of the living space (partial vs. complete conversion)

Historic timber frames typically provide an excellent foundation for conversion, particularly when the structural elements haven’t been compromised by moisture or pest damage. Authentic stone walls, when properly restored, add tremendous character and value to these distinctive living spaces.

When approaching old barn renovation, we prioritize preserving the unique elements that give these structures their character:

• Hand-hewn beams and posts
• Original stonework and foundations
• Historic hardware and architectural details
• Weathered siding and natural patina
• Traditional joinery and construction techniques

Absolutely! I’ve always enjoyed working on structures from the 17th and 18th centuries. The oldest home I’ve worked on was in Philadelphia from 1766, and the oldest barn was in New Hope from 1786. These buildings represent an incredible part of our history, and I’m honored to have had opportunities to work on them.

Historical homes can be beautifully renovated while preserving their architectural integrity. The key is understanding period-appropriate techniques and materials. Many historical properties are subject to preservation guidelines, which we navigate regularly. We work within these parameters to create homes that honor their historical significance while providing the comfort and functionality modern homeowners expect. From restoring original windows to integrating modern heating systems without compromising historical features, we specialize in revitalizing these treasures.

For most remodeling projects, yes! While living through a renovation is certainly different from normal life, today’s construction practices allow us to isolate work zones much more effectively than in years past. We pride ourselves on treating your home with complete respect during renovations, using advanced dust containment systems and maintaining organized work areas to allow your daily life to continue as normally as possible.

For more extensive renovations involving multiple areas of your home, we can discuss phasing options that minimize disruption to your daily routine.

Renovating a historical home begins with thorough documentation and assessment. We start by researching your home’s architectural history and original features worth preserving. Next, we conduct a comprehensive structural evaluation, identifying critical issues that need addressing before aesthetic improvements. We then develop a renovation strategy that balances historical preservation with modern functionality. Working with historical properties requires specialized knowledge about traditional building techniques and materials—from lime mortar to hand-hewn beams. Our approach prioritizes preserving character-defining elements while thoughtfully integrating modern systems and amenities.

Building a luxury home represents a significant investment that varies based on size, location, materials, and level of customization. Rather than quoting a standard price per square foot, we prefer discussing your specific vision, as true luxury lies in the details and craftsmanship. Premium materials, architectural details, custom millwork, specialty spaces, and integrated technology all contribute to the overall investment. The process typically begins with architectural design and pre-construction planning, where we develop detailed specifications and establish a comprehensive budget. This approach ensures transparency throughout the project and allows us to create a home that perfectly balances your aesthetic preferences with functional requirements.

When designing your luxury car garage or custom garage building, placement is a critical decision that impacts both functionality and aesthetics. We specialize in designing high-end garages that can be positioned:

• Adjacent to your home: Creating a detached garage next to house structures provides convenient access while maintaining architectural separation
• As standalone structures: Positioned strategically on your property to create visual interest and accommodate specialized needs
• Connected via breezeway: Blending the convenience of attached garages with the aesthetic benefits of detached structures
• As part of compound designs: Incorporating your luxury car garage into a thoughtful arrangement of multiple outbuildings

The ideal placement depends on your property’s layout, your specific needs, and local zoning regulations. During our consultation, we can explore these options and determine which approach best suits your custom garage building project. Contact us today!