FAQ
General New Blue
What types of projects do you handle?
New Blue is a full-service general contractor specializing in custom commercial and residential projects. Our in-house carpenters and construction managers lead a wide range of renovation and restoration work.
Commercial projects include adaptive re-use up to 30,000 sf, downtown building restorations, and conventional TI and new construction across metro Chattanooga.
On the residential side, we build custom homes—often exceeding $2M—in collaboration with local and regional architects. Our renovation services range from smaller Special Projects to full home and historic restorations priced at $1M and beyond.
Do you offer free estimates?
It depends on the project type, but we generally do not provide free estimating for any of our residential projects, but instead focus on contractual relationships with our clients throughout the pre-construction process.
For commercial builds, our pre-construction process is different and we consider competitive bid pools on a case by case basis.
Do you work outside of the Chattanooga area?
Yes, we are licensed general contractors in Tennessee and Georgia. We build up to an hour outside our Chattanooga home base, including Monteagle Mountain, Marion and Sequatchie Counties, and nearby North Georgia.
Do you provide partial services, so that we can “handle the rest”?
No. Most “by-client” services and subcontractors void our warranty and provide gaps in the project accountability chain. We do allow by-client purchases of certain fixtures and finishes on a case-by-case basis, particularly when a design partner is guiding the selections.
Do you offer a warranty?
Yes, we provide up to a 3-year warranty, depending on project type and size.
Design
What sort of design do you require for your projects?
Each project is different, but all projects require design. Our smaller renovations require less rigorous design than commercial and new home projects.
Do you offer in-house design services?
New Blue partners with trusted architects and designers to guide and integrate each design around the client’s needs. For those starting without existing plans, we also offer in-house design-build services for renovation projects under one million.
Do I really need design for my small project?
Yes, even our most modest projects will require some basic design and scope of work evaluation.
Commercial Construction
Does New Blue provide more conventional commercial build-outs?
Yep. We have done tavern expansions, banquet spaces, storefronts, restaurant remodels, ice cream kitchens, and 100-year renovations for non-profit partners in our community.
Has New Blue completed any historical restoration project in commercial spaces?
You bet your bottom dollar we have; from restoring custom moldings in historical worship spaces to bringing back to life 19th century structures at the Bluff View Arts District. New Blue’s near-legendary in-house carpenters crave opportunities to restore, revitalize, and “make new again” historic spaces and structures.
Does New Blue provide free quotes for commercial projects?
When bidding a commercial project, we generally participate in an RFQ prior to bidding. New Blue wants to build projects where lowest price is not the primary selection criteria. Please reach out to our pre-construction team for a more detailed conversation.
Renovation
Do I need plans?
Yes, design defines the scope for an accurate estimate. Plans offer a scaled rendering for better understanding, and our team uses them on-site to execute the renovation precisely.
Do I have to pay for an estimate?
We can often discuss budget norms to give initial feedback on potential price before formal engagement.
How soon can I start my project?
This will vary and our team can give you an accurate estimate.
Can I live in my home during the renovation?
Yes, most of our renovation projects are in client-occupied spaces, but whether you stay in your home is up to you. During preconstruction, we assess your needs to ensure the best outcome while accommodating your household. Our team minimizes disruption through space isolation, ventilation, and detailed site prep.
How do you staff my project?
New Blue has an incredible team of in-house carpenters for consistency and oversight. For specialized trades like electrical and plumbing, we work with trusted subcontractors that adhere to our high standards. Our Project Manager or Project Superintendent oversees renovations and serves as the primary client contact.
Custom Home
What’s the first step in getting a new custom home built?
Our clients first work with an architect or residential designer for plans. New Blue can be available to consult and advise during the design phase. Click here to read about our five-step Custom Home Build process.
Do you give free estimates?
It takes a lot of time, work, and real-life experience to build a complex estimate that covers the many moving parts of building a new custom house. We generally secure an up-front deposit for the work of estimating.
How long will it take to build?
This ultimately depends on the specifics of each project – there’s no universal answer. As we move through the pre-construction phase and gain full clarity of the project scope, we’ll gain a better picture and share as soon as it’s determined.