Reprinted Articles

Not everyone is handy around the house. Sometimes, despite our best intentions or most valiant efforts, we need to hire a professional to get the job done. When this happens, you need to protect yourself by having a strong understanding of home improvement estimates.

The most important thing to remember about a home improvement estimate is that it is, in fact, an “estimate”. The prices given to you may vary in one way or the other, and no price is set in stone. That said, you’ll seek a home improvement estimate when you’re just not sure how much it will cost for a home repair or renovation job.

Experienced contractors will give you “ballpark figures” to estimate the total cost of your project. This home improvement estimate is the best way to figure out how much money you’ll need in your budget, before you get to work.

Calculate Your Calculations

When you receive a home improvement estimate, the cost of the project will be calculated using the exact dimensions of your home. No reputable contractor will give you an estimate before visiting the property, inspecting the area and taking dimensions.

This is important information that your contractor will use to determine the time and materials required to complete the job. He or she will explain the markup system, and compare your job to regional pricing. Each of these steps will contribute to your home improvement estimate, which is the total price of the job.

Pricing Your Materials

A professional contractor will base his or her material costs on information gathered from researchers. These figures may be calculated using compiled costs gathered from hundreds of different lumberyards throughout the United States. Researchers will also compile labor costs by tracking the labor trends and collecting certain data from professional remodeling contractors. The contractor that you choose should have access to this information and use it in his or her calculations.

There are costs, fees and prices gathered from various areas and sources, but remember that your job is unique. The price you’re given must reflect your specific project. There are other factors to consider, such as your residential area that may be used to calculate a more precise estimate. Help in any way that you can, because an estimate that’s close to your actual costs will get the job done faster and easier.

Your home improvement estimate price is based on basic information shared with your contractor. It can provide a good indication of what the project will cost, but bear in mind that the actual price may vary just a little bit.

As you work with your contractor, he or she will be able to make accurate measurements and add to any of the details you have already received. These additional calculations and extenuating circumstances may affect the end price. Factors like impeded access to work areas, unusual terrain, scheduling and season weather conditions can also impact your estimate.

It’s important to use current material prices when calculating your home improvement estimate. Use the prices that you would pay if you were to purchase the materials at your local building centre. If you contractor offers to provide materials at a discounted or bulk price, it’s like getting a little bonus when the job is complete.

Don’t scrimp on quality, and make sure you know what you’re getting. If you want a specific brand or style, make sure that the contractor’s budget materials meet your standards. Your satisfaction and peace of mind can be worth a few extra dollars.

Do not agree to hire a contractor until you’ve received a written home improvement estimate. If the price is higher than you can pay, go ahead and haggle until you’ve agreed on a price that makes you both happy.