Home improvement shows make projects look simple. One minute the host says “Let’s get started,” and twelve minutes later everything is brand new. But real homeowners know that the steps in between are where the real work, timing, and communication matter.

In Episode 9 of The STAN’dard, Liz and Kevin take listeners behind the scenes of what actually happens during a roofing, siding, deck, or basement project. If you have ever wondered why crews arrive when they do, what causes delays, or how materials get chosen, this episode pulls back the curtain on the entire process.

At Stan’s Roofing, Siding, Decks & Unlimited Basements, we believe the best customer is an informed customer. Here is what really happens from the first hello to the final walkthrough.

1. The Consultation: Understanding Your Home and Your Goals

Every project starts with a conversation. During your consultation, the Stan’s team looks at your home, listens to your concerns, and helps you figure out the best solution for your budget and long-term needs.

This is when decisions get made about materials, colors, design options, warranties, and scheduling. The more information homeowners share, the more accurate the project plan becomes.

What this step avoids: surprises, wrong materials, and mid-project changes.

2. The Proposal and Approval

Once we know what you want, we prepare a clear proposal that explains pricing, timelines, materials, and expectations. No vague language, no fine print. You know exactly what is happening and why.

Kevin always says, “Clarity at the start saves everyone stress at the end.”

3. Ordering Materials

After approval, your materials get ordered. Some are ready right away, while others depend on suppliers, weather, or production schedules. Specialty colors and custom products may take a little longer.

This is also when the team coordinates delivery, staging, and storage so everything is ready when your crew arrives.

4. Project Scheduling

Weather, current workloads, crew availability, and material arrival dates all shape the final schedule. Our goal is to give you the earliest start date without compromising quality.

Roofing projects may begin sooner, while larger siding or deck builds require extra coordination. Good scheduling keeps the entire process smooth.

5. The Build Begins: What to Expect

On build day, the crew arrives early, introduces themselves, and gets right to work. Here is what homeowners usually notice:

  • A clean, organized jobsite
  • Respect for landscaping and property
  • Clear communication from the crew lead
  • Fast progress, especially during roofing jobs

Noise and activity are normal. A professional crew works quickly and safely while keeping you updated throughout the day.

6. Why Projects Sometimes Change Mid-Build

Even with the best planning, homes can reveal surprises. Once old materials are removed, hidden issues sometimes appear. Common surprises include:

  • Rotten wood
  • Hidden water damage
  • Missing or outdated flashing
  • Code requirements from older builds

These are not mistakes. They are simply things no one can see until the job begins. The difference is in how the contractor handles them. At Stan’s, you get honest communication, photos, and clear solutions.

7. Quality Checks and Cleanup

Once the main work is done, the crew performs a full cleanup and a final quality inspection. We check details that homeowners might not notice, like:​

  • Proper flashing installation
  • Correct fastening
  • Clean cuts and seams
  • Proper ventilation
  • Material warranty requirements

Then we walk you through the results so you understand exactly what was done.

8. The Final Walkthrough

This is where the project officially ends. We review the work, answer questions, confirm the materials used, and make sure you feel confident and happy with the results.

Liz says it best: “A finished job should feel exciting, not confusing.”

We want you to walk away with zero questions and total confidence in your home.

9. What Happens After the Project

You are not just a job number to us. After completion, our team follows up, sends warranty information, and remains available for future repairs or questions. Many homeowners come back to us for additional projects because they remember how smooth the first one went.

There is a lot that happens behind the scenes during a home improvement project, but when you have the right team, the process feels organized, transparent, and stress-free. At Stan’s Roofing, Siding, Decks & Unlimited Basements, every project is handled with communication, craftsmanship, and care from start to finish.

đź“ž Call (708) 448-4100 or visit www.stansroofingandsiding.com to schedule your project consultation.