Our Process
Every Green Ladder project follows the same disciplined process. No surprises, no shortcuts, no hand-offs.
The Call
15 minutesA quick conversation to understand your vision, confirm we are the right fit, and make sure the project is something we can deliver well. No obligation, no pressure.
- ✓What you are hoping to build
- ✓Rough timeline and budget range
- ✓Whether we serve your area
- ✓Next steps if we are a fit
On-Site Visit
ComplimentaryWe come to your property, walk the space with you, take measurements, and get a feel for the full scope of what is possible. This is where the design conversation starts.
- ✓Site assessment and measurements
- ✓Soil, grade and drainage outside, structure and services inside
- ✓Discussion of materials and finish options
- ✓Preliminary scope and phasing conversation
The Design
Credited toward your buildOn an outdoor build the design consultation puts a full 3D model of the finished space in front of you before any work starts (turn it, get underneath it, and see what holds it up), detailed enough to review, adjust and approve. Bigger builds earn one, and we will say honestly if yours does not need it.
- ✓Full 3D render on outdoor builds
- ✓Materials specified for Alberta winters
- ✓Phase-by-phase plan if you are building over time
- ✓Design fee credited in full at contract signing
Firm Proposal
Line-by-line, no surprisesA complete proposal with everything spelled out: scope, phases, price, timeline, and payment schedule. No vague estimates, no surprise change orders.
- ✓Fixed price with defined scope
- ✓Phase-by-phase build sequence
- ✓Build timeline and start date
- ✓Payment schedule tied to milestones
Build
One crew, start to finishOur crew handles delivery, build, and cleanup. You get weekly updates and a named site lead you can reach any day of the build, with David behind them. We do not hand the job off.
- ✓We support the permit package and guide you through submission
- ✓Same crew from day one to final walkthrough
- ✓Track your project progress in your private client portal
- ✓Clean site maintained throughout
Final Walkthrough
Backed in writingWe walk the completed project with you, address any questions, and hand over your warranty documentation. We are reachable after the build.
- ✓Full walkthrough with David
- ✓Written workmanship warranty
- ✓Manufacturer product warranties on materials
- ✓We are available after the build, not gone
Annual Outdoor Care
Optional, available to all past clientsEvery spring, we return to inspect and service what we built. Deck wash, hardware check, composite inspection, and minor tightening. Your investment is protected long after the build is complete.
- ✓Spring inspection of all structural connections
- ✓Deck surface wash and composite inspection
- ✓Hardware check and minor tightening
- ✓First call when you are ready for the next phase
See it before we build it.
Before we start, you get a design showing the structure, materials, dimensions, and layout exactly as it will be built. Outdoor builds get a full 3D model.
Every Element We Build
Kitchens, bathrooms and basements, garages and framing, decks, patios and outdoor living. Outdoor builds are modelled in 3D.
Real Materials
Cabinets, counters, tile and flooring inside. Cedar, PT wood, composite, stone and pavers outside. See the finished look before you choose.
Adjust Before You Build
Change dimensions, swap materials, reconfigure the layout. The design fee is credited in full when you sign a contract.
Common Questions
What does the design consultation cost?
Nothing. The call and the on-site visit are free and there is no obligation. The paid step is the design itself on an outdoor build, where we model the finished space in 3D and work out the footing layout before anything is cut. That is priced by scope on our pricing page, and it is credited back in full toward your build when you sign. On a straightforward build where you already know what you want, we are happy to skip it and get going.
How far out are you booked?
Typically 6 to 10 weeks depending on the season. Spring fills fastest. If you have a target date in mind, the sooner you start the process the better.
Do you handle permits?
Yes. In most Alberta municipalities the homeowner is the permit applicant, so the application goes in under your name, and we support you through all of it. We tell you which permits your project needs, give you what goes with the application, and have the work ready at each inspection. If the city asks for engineered drawings, we work alongside the engineer.
Do you only work in summer, or do you take on projects in winter?
Both. Interior work runs year round: basement finishing, kitchen and bathroom renovations, flooring, trim and carpentry, drywall and painting, and whole home renovations. Outdoor builds run spring through fall, because footings and concrete need ground that is not frozen. Winter is the best time to design and permit a deck, so the build can start as soon as the ground thaws.
Are you insured and WCB covered?
Yes to both. We carry liability insurance and are WCB certified in Alberta, and we hold a City of Red Deer business licence. We are happy to send current certificates before any work begins. It is worth asking any contractor you talk to. If a company is not covered and someone is injured on your property, that can end up back on your homeowner policy.
Can I phase the project over time?
Absolutely. The design covers your full project. We can plan and price it in phases so you build what makes sense now and add to it over time.
What is included in the workmanship warranty?
Our workmanship warranty covers any defect in our labour or installation. The term is 2 years on decks, railings, fences, privacy screens, pergolas, sheds, hot tub surrounds, outdoor fireplaces, retaining walls, framing and interior renovations, and 1 year on patios, walkways and landscape lighting. Normal wear and tear, weather damage, the natural movement of solid wood, and improper maintenance are excluded. Manufacturer product warranties apply separately and vary by material. Full terms are in our services agreement.
Ready to start?
Book a design consultation and we will walk you through the full process for your specific project.