The whine of power saws on that new addition or remodeling project can signal the exciting sound of your dreams taking shape or they can conjure visions of The Texas Chainsaw Massacre. Fear is understandable. These major construction projects can be scary and expensive. But doing homework on the front end can help you develop a firm budget, a clear vision and a more fruitful relationship with your contractors. It might also lessen the fear factor. Start with the biggest, broadest questions - What do you hope to accomplish with the project and how much do you have to spend? Then your contractors can help you work your way to the smaller questions about specific materials, etc. That kind of strategic planning should bring clarity to the project, which could be the most valuable asset you bring to the table.
Addition & Remodel Cost Guides
Select your Addition & Remodel project
![Additions & Remodels](http://webcf.waybackmachine.org/web/20180220133717im_/https://cdn.homeadvisor.com/files/costguide/task/images/remodel-a-bathroom_180_120.jpg)
Remodel a Bathroom
(14,169 projects)
Average National Cost:
$9,620
View Costs in Your Area
![Additions & Remodels](http://webcf.waybackmachine.org/web/20180220133717im_/https://cdn.homeadvisor.com/files/costguide/task/images/3762787_180_120.jpg)
Remodel a Kitchen
(5,645 projects)
Average National Cost:
$21,988
View Costs in Your Area
![Additions & Remodels](http://webcf.waybackmachine.org/web/20180220133717im_/https://cdn.homeadvisor.com/files/costguide/task/images/remodel-multiple-rooms_180_120.jpg)
Remodel Multiple Rooms
(4,135 projects)
Average National Cost:
$39,198
View Costs in Your Area
![Additions & Remodels](http://webcf.waybackmachine.org/web/20180220133717im_/https://cdn.homeadvisor.com/files/costguide/task/images/remodel-a-basement_180_120.jpg)
Remodel a Basement
(3,780 projects)
Average National Cost:
$18,881
View Costs in Your Area
![Additions & Remodels](http://webcf.waybackmachine.org/web/20180220133717im_/https://cdn.homeadvisor.com/files/costguide/task/images/building-an-addition_180_120.jpg)
Build an Addition
(3,438 projects)
Average National Cost:
$41,994
View Costs in Your Area
![Additions & Remodels](http://webcf.waybackmachine.org/web/20180220133717im_/https://cdn.homeadvisor.com/files/costguide/task/images/Perform-Major-Home-Repairs_300_200_180_120.jpg)
Perform Home Renovations and Repairs
(1,852 projects)
Average National Cost:
$10,037
View Costs in Your Area
![Additions & Remodels](http://webcf.waybackmachine.org/web/20180220133717im_/https://cdn.homeadvisor.com/files/costguide/task/images/build-a-patio-enclosure_180_120.jpg)
Build a Patio Enclosure
(1,423 projects)
Average National Cost:
$15,386
View Costs in Your Area
![Additions & Remodels](http://webcf.waybackmachine.org/web/20180220133717im_/https://cdn.homeadvisor.com/files/costguide/task/images/demo-an-interior_180_120.jpg)
Demo an Interior
(1,153 projects)
Average National Cost:
$3,023
View Costs in Your Area
![Additions & Remodels](http://webcf.waybackmachine.org/web/20180220133717im_/https://cdn.homeadvisor.com/files/costguide/task/images/install-carpentry-framing_180_120.jpg)
Install Carpentry Framing
(1,141 projects)
Average National Cost:
$3,425
View Costs in Your Area
![Additions & Remodels](http://webcf.waybackmachine.org/web/20180220133717im_/https://cdn.homeadvisor.com/files/costguide/task/images/build-a-garage_180_120.jpg)
Build a Garage
(1,109 projects)
Average National Cost:
$26,027
View Costs in Your Area
![Additions & Remodels](http://webcf.waybackmachine.org/web/20180220133717im_/https://cdn.homeadvisor.com/files/costguide/task/images/excavate-land_180_120.jpg)
Excavate Land
(617 projects)
Average National Cost:
$2,933
View Costs in Your Area
![Additions & Remodels](http://webcf.waybackmachine.org/web/20180220133717im_/https://cdn.homeadvisor.com/files/costguide/task/images/build-a-closet_180_120.jpg)
Build a Closet
(427 projects)
Average National Cost:
$1,835
View Costs in Your Area
![Additions & Remodels](http://webcf.waybackmachine.org/web/20180220133717im_/https://cdn.homeadvisor.com/files/costguide/task/images/install-a-foundation_180_120.jpg)
Install a Foundation
(416 projects)
Average National Cost:
$7,931
View Costs in Your Area
![Additions & Remodels](http://webcf.waybackmachine.org/web/20180220133717im_/https://cdn.homeadvisor.com/files/costguide/task/images/remodel-a-garage_180_120.jpg)
Renovate or Convert a Garage
(404 projects)
Average National Cost:
$10,656
View Costs in Your Area
![Additions & Remodels](http://webcf.waybackmachine.org/web/20180220133717im_/https://cdn.homeadvisor.com/files/costguide/task/images/build-a-barn-shed-or-playhouse_180_120.jpg)
Build a Barn, Shed or Playhouse
(354 projects)
Average National Cost:
$2,918
View Costs in Your Area
![Additions & Remodels](http://webcf.waybackmachine.org/web/20180220133717im_/https://cdn.homeadvisor.com/files/costguide/task/images/Clear-Land-or-Prepare-a-Construction-Site_300_200_180_120.jpg)
Clear Land or Prepare a Construction Site
(296 projects)
Average National Cost:
$2,710
View Costs in Your Area
![Additions & Remodels](http://webcf.waybackmachine.org/web/20180220133717im_/https://cdn.homeadvisor.com/files/costguide/task/images/remodel-for-disability-accommodation_180_120.jpg)
Remodel for Disability Accommodation
(215 projects)
Average National Cost:
$4,929
View Costs in Your Area
![Additions & Remodels](http://webcf.waybackmachine.org/web/20180220133717im_/https://cdn.homeadvisor.com/files/costguide/task/images/5719817_180_120.jpg)
Hire a Kitchen Designer
(112 projects)
Average National Cost:
$7,388
View Costs in Your Area
![Additions & Remodels](http://webcf.waybackmachine.org/web/20180220133717im_/https://cdn.homeadvisor.com/files/costguide/task/images/build-a-carport_180_120.jpg)
Build a Carport
(101 projects)
Average National Cost:
$7,590
View Costs in Your Area
![Additions & Remodels](http://webcf.waybackmachine.org/web/20180220133717im_/https://cdn.homeadvisor.com/files/costguide/task/images/build-an-outdoor-kitchen_180_120.jpg)
Build an Outdoor Kitchen
(94 projects)
Average National Cost:
$10,878
View Costs in Your Area
![Additions & Remodels](http://webcf.waybackmachine.org/web/20180220133717im_/https://cdn.homeadvisor.com/files/costguide/task/images/install-steel-beams_180_120.jpg)
Install Steel Beams
(52 projects)
Average National Cost:
$2,463
View Costs in Your Area
![Additions & Remodels](http://webcf.waybackmachine.org/web/20180220133717im_/https://cdn.homeadvisor.com/files/costguide/task/images/get-a-building-permit_180_120.jpg)
Get a Building Permit
(48 projects)
Average National Cost:
$1,221
View Costs in Your Area
![Additions & Remodels](http://webcf.waybackmachine.org/web/20180220133717im_/https://cdn.homeadvisor.com/files/costguide/task/images/hire-a-construction-manager_180_120.jpg)
Hire a Construction Manager
(34 projects)
Average National Cost:
$24,374
View Costs in Your Area
Workers for an Addition or Remodel
Depending on how your size-and-complexity plans work out, you may find you need one general contractor, or you may find you need a team of specialized professionals. For example, if you are doing a remodel, you may want to start with consulting an interior decorator. But, as with hiring any home professionals, you want to be cautious about whom you choose. For instance, watch out for decorators who offer free services - these can actually be a manufacturer's representative pushing certain products. Besides narrowing your options, you may pay more in the long run. A flat-fee decorator might look like a great bargain on the outset, but make sure that this person won't insist on acting as your exclusive buying agent. You don't want decorators who will steer you toward marked-up products that carry larger commissions for them. Always check prices you get from your decorator against retail.You may also need to hire people that you didn't even think about - such as a structural engineer. The structural engineer inspects the foundation, infrastructure, curtain wall, insulation and building envelope. Through careful inspection and comparison to the approved building plans, the engineer can ensure that the actual building meets the drawings provided and that any necessary corrections are made. While this might be an extra cost that you didnt initially anticipate, the safety of your structure is paramount, and this simple exercise can save you money and legal hassles down the road.
Budget for an Addition or Remodel
Once you have your plans in place, remember that you can always make changes that modify your budget as you go. For example, maybe get a mid grade carpet instead of the highest grade available. Wait for a sale to purchase items like paint, appliances or new windows. Use coupons. Look for rebates. If you have the time, plan your remodel or addition as early as possible and start purchasing items you know you'll need early. This way you are incurring a slight cost over time and not a large cost all at once. You may also be able to afford a higher end product that you would normally not be able to afford if you tried to purchase everything at one time.Addition Exteriors
Because the interior for an addition can be so involved, its easy to forget or discount the effort needed to make the exterior shine. You will need to consider the siding and roofing materials you would like to use to finish this space. And you might weigh the quality of exterior materials against their visibility. Also in the cost of the addition, be careful to factor in the permits needed and the work needed to prepare the foundation.The Value of Your Remodel or Addition
Yes, these big projects can be daunting undertakings. But driving the projects moment must be your goal to reap the benefits once its done. You will have a more beautiful and functional home. And if you execute you project strategically, you'll find that its worth considerably more than when you started. Kind of makes all the sawdust and fear worth it.Share your cost experience
Help others plan and budget for their projects
Find Addition & Remodeling Contractors Near You
1. Houston, TX
2. Chicago, IL
3. Philadelphia, PA
4. Denver, CO
5. San Antonio, TX
6. Miami, FL
7. Minneapolis, MN
8. Atlanta, GA
9. Fort Lauderdale, FL
10. Los Angeles, CA
2. Chicago, IL
3. Philadelphia, PA
4. Denver, CO
5. San Antonio, TX
6. Miami, FL
7. Minneapolis, MN
8. Atlanta, GA
9. Fort Lauderdale, FL
10. Los Angeles, CA
11. Las Vegas, NV
12. Jacksonville, FL
13. Orlando, FL
14. Seattle, WA
15. San Diego, CA
16. Dallas, TX
17. San Jose, CA
18. Indianapolis, IN
19. Pittsburgh, PA
20. Charlotte, NC
12. Jacksonville, FL
13. Orlando, FL
14. Seattle, WA
15. San Diego, CA
16. Dallas, TX
17. San Jose, CA
18. Indianapolis, IN
19. Pittsburgh, PA
20. Charlotte, NC
21. New York, NY
22. Tampa, FL
23. Portland, OR
24. Austin, TX
25. Phoenix, AZ
26. Fort Worth, TX
27. Louisville, KY
28. Columbus, OH
29. Cincinnati, OH
30. Washington, DC
22. Tampa, FL
23. Portland, OR
24. Austin, TX
25. Phoenix, AZ
26. Fort Worth, TX
27. Louisville, KY
28. Columbus, OH
29. Cincinnati, OH
30. Washington, DC
31. Saint Paul, MN
32. Saint Louis, MO
33. Aurora, CO
34. Baltimore, MD
35. Sacramento, CA
36. Kansas City, MO
37. Cleveland, OH
38. Colorado Springs, CO
39. Saint Petersburg, FL
40. El Paso, TX
32. Saint Louis, MO
33. Aurora, CO
34. Baltimore, MD
35. Sacramento, CA
36. Kansas City, MO
37. Cleveland, OH
38. Colorado Springs, CO
39. Saint Petersburg, FL
40. El Paso, TX
41. Salt Lake City, UT
42. Littleton, CO
43. Tucson, AZ
44. Buffalo, NY
45. Virginia Beach, VA
46. Milwaukee, WI
47. Detroit, MI
48. Birmingham, AL
49. Oklahoma City, OK
50. Baton Rouge, LA
42. Littleton, CO
43. Tucson, AZ
44. Buffalo, NY
45. Virginia Beach, VA
46. Milwaukee, WI
47. Detroit, MI
48. Birmingham, AL
49. Oklahoma City, OK
50. Baton Rouge, LA
I have been doing home remodeling and commercial work for over 25 years now , and I am still doing it in Connecticut and part of NY and that is the way I provide for my family.
My experience tells me that :
- most of projects have it's own specifications, that might be different from any other similar projects .
those specifications make the difference in price .
- As a hard working guy , father of 4 kids , I have to be careful with my family budget .
Every penny counts . I can not spend more that what I have planed upfront .
If it is one thing I hate , it is when I make a deal to buy something or get a service , work out a price , and when time comes to pay I see that the price has suddenly been jacked up from a million fees that nobody informed me upfront .
- In my line of work , construction / home remodeling , that problem can be eliminated or lowered to a minimum , if you as a costumer
1. Get to know and Decide upfront , before you sign a contract , ( by doing your search or asking the prospect contractor ) for every detail ( material or labor ) on the upcoming project
2.. match Your taste with your Budget : make a list of major materials you are going to use in the project and price them. Mat prices vary a lot, depends what you buy : in -stock , special order Or costum made
3.. Try to make as little changes as you can , from the initial project that you have signed w the contractor
4. Ask the contractor to state in the contract as many details as possible . what kind of materials will be used, what kind of finish for item .
5. Never leave open/ undecided items in the project . I MAKE SURE to go over every detail w my costumers , explain the project , tell them the truth about the cost of project and things that might come up : no one knows for sure , what is behind the walls until demolition is done .
6. Do not hire different people to do different parts of project . Have One contractor take over the project and give you a price to finish the project from A to Z , including final C/O and clean Up
7.HIRE THE RIGHT PEOPLE
when a contractor comes to look at your project , prepare yourself to ask him some important technical questions about the Job. If he/she does not know to give you an answer in the spot , Then do not hire them. A lot of people pretend to be construction specialists , but very few are .
8. Never sign a contract , unless you read and understand every part of it . I always make sure to go over every item with my costumers , before they Sign. That prevents any misunderstanding by the end of the project
word of mouth is good , but black on white is BETTER
9. Always have the contractor give you an Item finish schedule ( for example : trim size , trim model , paint color , paint finish , light fixture , door model , vanity size , counter specs , plumbing fixture finish , floor finish , shower doors , lay out of tile , mosaic etc ) , Payment schedule and a time schedule .
My contractor installed 6mil PTO Membrane roof in the new house, but he did not use any insulation in between the roof decking and membrane. There is water pooling already and lots of air bubbles forming when it gets hot outside. He used mechanical placement instead of adhesive. I am very concern with this roof. Any advice would be very much appreciated.