Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers to what homeowners ask most, before, during, and after a project.
What areas do you serve?
Full Nelsen Construction is based in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, and takes on projects throughout the surrounding area. Mark is also licensed in Oregon and continues to take select projects there. If you're unsure whether your location is in range, just ask.
Do you offer free estimates?
Yes. Reach out by phone or email with a description of your project, and Mark will walk you through the next steps toward a written estimate.
I don't have a design yet — just an idea. Can you still help?
That's the normal starting point for most projects. Bring a photo, an inspiration image, or just a description of what isn't working in the space, and Mark will help turn it into a concrete, buildable plan.
Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?
Yes, in both Alabama and Oregon. A certificate of insurance is available on request before work begins.
How is an estimate put together?
Every estimate starts with a clearly defined scope of work, followed by itemized labor, materials, and any allowances — broken out separately rather than bundled into one lump sum. See the Journal article How I Write an Estimate for the full breakdown.
What's an "allowance," and why does my estimate have one?
An allowance is a placeholder dollar figure for a selection you haven't made yet — a fixture, a tile, a hardware finish. It lets us give you a real number before every detail is chosen. If your final pick costs more than the allowance, that difference is the only thing that changes.
Do you require a deposit?
Project-dependent, and always spelled out clearly in the written agreement before work begins — never a surprise line item.
How long does a typical project take?
It depends entirely on scope — a single mantel or built-in might take days, while a full addition or renovation takes weeks to months. You'll get a realistic timeline as part of your estimate, including what could reasonably push it.
Will Mark personally be doing the work?
Yes. Full Nelsen Construction is Mark's own hands-on craft, built on thirty-plus years on the tools — not a crew of subcontractors bidding out the finish work.
What trades do you cover?
Every trade except electrical and plumbing. Mark's specialty is finish carpentry — cabinetry, trim, built-ins, stairs, specialty millwork — along with additions, renovations, and outdoor living structures.
What happens at the final walkthrough?
We walk the finished space together, room by room, and note anything that needs attention on a written punch list. The project isn't considered complete until every item on that list is resolved and you've signed off. See the free Final Walkthrough guide in the Journal.
Do you use MDF or solid wood for trim?
Both, depending on the room. MDF is a smart, cost-effective choice in dry rooms; solid wood or PVC is used anywhere near plumbing or moisture, where MDF swells and fails. Full explanation in the Journal post MDF vs. Real Wood Trim.
Can you match an existing style in an older home?
Matching existing trim profiles, stain colors, and millwork details to blend with a home's existing character is a routine part of renovation work.