Rhode Island Construction FAQs for Homeowners
If you're planning a home project, our Rhode Island construction FAQs will help you feel confident about the process. We answer the most common questions clients ask when planning a remodel, addition, or outdoor project in Rhode Island.
General Questions
Q: What areas do you serve?
A: We proudly serve Rhode Island’s East Bay and surrounding communities, including Barrington, Bristol, Middletown, Newport, Portsmouth, Providence, Riverside, Rumford, and East Providence.
Q: Are you a licensed contractor in Rhode Island?
A: Yes. Toensing Construction is fully licensed and insured in the state of Rhode Island. We uphold professional standards and prioritize safety, transparency, and craftsmanship on every job.
Q: What types of projects do you take on?
A: We specialize in high-end residential construction, including custom carpentry, kitchen and bathroom remodeling, home additions, historic home restoration, and outdoor showers.
Q: Do you offer design-build services?
A: While we’re not a design firm, we work closely with architects and interior designers to ensure seamless project execution. We’re also happy to refer trusted design professionals or coordinate directly with your team.
Q: How do I start a project with you?
A: Simply fill out our contact form or give us a call. We’ll schedule an initial consultation to learn about your goals, timeline, and budget.
Outdoor Showers
Q: Do you build custom outdoor showers in Rhode Island?
A: Absolutely. As experienced outdoor shower builders, we create custom solutions tailored to your home’s layout, design, and privacy needs—ranging from seasonal setups to fully insulated, year-round installations.
Q: Can you install hot water and drainage for an outdoor shower?
A: Yes. We work with licensed plumbers to ensure your outdoor shower is built to code with reliable hot water, proper drainage, and long-lasting durability.
Historic Home Restoration
Q: Do you restore historic homes in Rhode Island?
A: Yes. Historic home restoration is one of our specialties. We take care to preserve original details—like woodwork, plaster, and trim—while upgrading systems and finishes to meet today’s standards.
Q: Can you help with permitting for homes in historic districts?
A: We can. We’re familiar with the permitting requirements in many of Rhode Island’s historic neighborhoods and can guide you through board approvals and documentation.
Home Additions & Remodeling
Q: Do you build second-story additions or master suites?
A: Yes. We handle all types of home expansions, including sunrooms, master bedroom additions, and full second-story renovations.
Q: What’s the typical home addition timeline in RI?
A: Most additions take 2–6 months depending on size, scope, and permitting. We’ll give you a detailed project timeline during the planning phase.
Project Logistics
Q: Can I live in my house during a remodel or addition?
A: Often, yes—especially for partial renovations. We’ll work with you to phase the work and minimize disruption to your daily life while maintaining safety and cleanliness.
Q: Do you use subcontractors?
A: Yes. We manage a trusted network of local Rhode Island subcontractors for trades like plumbing, HVAC, electrical, and drywall. All work is supervised by our team to ensure quality and consistency.
Have More Questions?
We’re happy to help. Reach out and speak with our team—we’ll walk you through the process, answer any questions, and help you take the next step.