Passion for building evident with Hammerhead Builders

Over the span of five years, Hammerhead Builders has built an honorable reputation in the construction industry for both commercial and residential projects.

According to general contractor and owner Michael Carpenter, his passion for building sparked as a young child. “My grandfather had a woodshop when I was a kid and we would build stuff,” he said. Beginning at the age of 5, Carpenter was his grandfather’s helper, building sheds and small cabinetry.

Although Hammerhead Builders is well-known in the industry for kitchen and bath remodels, their calendar is full of a variety of commercial projects. “Right now we are in the middle of remodeling Miramonte Winery in Temecula,” Carpenter said. “I am running the entire project up there.”

It appears that bath remodels have surged in popularity lately, especially as they are generally quick and easy projects. From a contractor’s standpoint, it’s simple to facilitate a new tub system, vanity, countertops and cabinetry. However, says Carpenter, remodels involving structural changes take a bit longer.

Normally, when Carpenter starts a remodel, he likes to have about 90 percent of the components onsite (cabinets, appliances, fixtures and the like). This way, the assembly will be fluid.

“On a day-to-day basis, I keep my customers informed on the progress of the job and what the next step will be,” he said.

During a residential remodel, for example, Hammerhead Builders does their best to limit any inconvenience to clients. Keeping interruptions to water and electricity service minimal, for example, are a priority.

Carpenter admitted that he is inclined to give homeowners homework. He likes them to do research regarding the kind of products they wish to have installed.

He repeatedly tells his clients, “Stay away from putting cheap items in your house.” Low-cost items do not upgrade a home, and in most cases, they do not last.

The Internet is an easy resource that can provide homeowners with a fountain of information regarding different product lines. Visits to design houses and specialty shops are an educational journey, too. “Look and see what’s ‘in’ right now and we can duplicate that, saving you a considerable amount of money,” said Carpenter.

The subcontractors Carpenter brings to a job are well-established in the industry, such as in the areas of plumbing and electricity. “I’ve known [these individuals] for about 15 to 20 years,” he confirmed.

Carpenter conveyed that he does a great deal of the contractor work himself to insure top-notch quality control. “For project management, it’s just a lot easier to stay on a job,” he noted. Being present on a daily basis provides the property owner with peace of mind.

Carpenter enjoys his daily work and revels in the completion of a job to the customer’s satisfaction. “It’s just great when people get to see your work,” he said. “It’s a blast when they ‘ooh’ and ‘aah’ over everything.”

To reach Hammerhead Builders, please call (951) 764-6991.