Duplex renovation
Transformation of an abandoned duplex into a bright family home – Lachine (Montreal)
Background: the initial visit
When David pushes open the door, the air smells damp; the floor creaks under his boots. The anxious owners fear the structure will collapse. Yet they dream of a solid, light-filled home – and above all, one that won’t break the bank.
Technical challenges
- Rotten joists compromising the stability of the first floor;
- Generalized subsidence: up to 6 cm slope in some rooms;
- Creation of a large rear opening without weakening the existing framework.
“I sensed their concern; my mission: to turn that fear into a clear, costed plan.” – David
Service
Recovery plan
- Replacement of unsalvageable joists and doubling of the remaining ones;
- Gradual lifting: one centimetre at a time to level the floor;
- Installation of a steel lintel before opening a 4.8 m bay window and installing two full-height patio doors;
- High-performance insulation and energy-efficient windows eliminate humidity and heat loss.
Every Friday, David and the owners review progress: photos, budget, next steps. This rhythm reassures the couple and keeps the project perfectly aligned with their priorities.
Tangible results
The owners now walk through their house without any apprehension; light floods the entire first floor.
- Successful conversion to a single-family home with 2 bathrooms.
- Modernized facade: black windows and minimalist aluminum railings.
Why Davana soothes anxiety
- Weekly invoicing: immediate cost visibility ;
- Weekly “quality & budget” visit with David ;
- 360° team (structure, finish, design): a single point of contact.
Tips before you get started (Lachine / Montréal)
- List your main concerns: delays, costs, safety. We’ll deal with them one by one.
- Book your contractor 3 – 6 months in advance; demand is high.
- Find out about LogisVert 2025 grants (up to $5,000) for insulation.
Ready to work with someone who really understands your project and your constraints?
Contact David; he’ll ask the right questions and propose tailor-made solutions.
