Why Design-Build Works: A Smarter Renovation Process with Ashton Renovations – Part III

Part 3: Building with Confidence

Construction, Communication, and Cost Control with Ashton Renovations
Once the design is finalized and planning is complete, construction begins — and this is where our Design-Build process really shows its strength. Because we’ve already done the heavy lifting during design, the build phase runs smoother, faster, and with fewer surprises.

Here’s what you can expect during construction with Ashton Renovations:

Clear Project Management from Day One

We use Buildertrend, North America’s leading construction software, to track everything — from scheduling and communication to daily logs, documentation and to-do’s.

• You’ll see real-time schedules with upcoming trade work, deliveries, and milestones
• Each week, we update the timeline to reflect real progress and any adjustments
• Daily logs, including photos and notes, help track who was on site and what was done

Open Communication Every Step of the Way

You’ll never feel out of the loop. We keep things simple and clear with:

• Direct contact with your assigned Project Manager
• Phone, text, and Buildertrend messaging for easy updates
• A single place to review drawings, product selections, invoices, and messages

This system allows our team — and you — to stay organized and avoid miscommunication.

Trade Coordination and Inspections

We coordinate all required inspections and ensure all work is done to code.

• ESA (Electrical Safety Authority) inspections
• City of Toronto building inspections (when applicable)
• Our own detailed on-site checklists at critical phases (like rough-in and finish carpentry)

We also proactively manage permit documents, structural drawings, and floor plans from start to finish.

A critical part of our service is trade coordination. We maintain daily communication with all our trades and subcontractors—scheduling their work, resolving issues, and keeping everything on track. This hands-on approach ensures a smooth process and takes the pressure off our clients.

Transparent Billing & Cost Control

With each invoice, you’ll receive a full Project Cost Sheet that includes:

• Materials
• Labour
• Approved change orders
• A running balance of your project budget

You’ll also receive a copy of our billing information sheet that explains how we invoice and what to expect.

Step-by-Step Guides for Every Stage

We provide you with short, focused documents for each construction phase — including:

• Demolition & Site Prep
• Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC
• Drywall & Insulation
• Tiling and Flooring
• Cabinetry, Painting, Final Finishes

Each guide explains:

• What to expect
• Common issues that can come up
• Tips to help you prepare (and avoid stress)

Clients often say these sheets make them feel more in control and confident about what’s happening on site.

You’re Part of the Team

Our goal is to keep the process respectful, organized, and efficient. By integrating you into the process, you stay informed and can make better decisions along the way — without feeling overwhelmed.

We’re not just here to build your space — we’re here to build it with you, with full transparency, thoughtful planning, and daily support.

Wrapping Up Your Project

As construction wraps up, we:

• Review the space together
• Finalize any touch-ups or refinements
• Provide you with copies of all relevant documents, plans, and warranty information

We also stay in touch for post-project support — just because construction is over doesn’t mean communication stops.