|
 |
Remodeling
/ Room Addition Project |
|
Q: Can
you give me a ballpark figure for my remodeling project?
A: There are too many variables involved in a major remodeling project
or room addition to come up with an average square foot price or expect
a contractor to give you a firm free estimate. Not only must you consider
structural aspects, such as load bearing walls, location of plumbing
and wiring, and possible changes to the roof line, but it will also
depend on what kind of materials you want (Custom or pre-manufactured
cabinets? Corian, tile or Formica countertops? Carpet, hardwood or
vinyl floors? A whirlpool tub? Double sinks? etc.) We have an article
on our site which explains this (just type "Free Bids" into
a Search box on our site.)
Contractors may be able to give you a "rough" or "ball
park" bid based on what you think you want, but no one can give
you a firm bid without working from a set of plans and specifications.
The best way to get a reasonable price is to pay a contractor or designer
to draw a set of plans and specifications and then collect competitive
bids on it--preferably from at least three different contractors.
Your designer will contact other professionals such as structural
engineers, as needed, to draw plans that will meet building codes
in order to apply for all the necessary building permits.
Consider hiring a building designer, residential designer, or architect
who specializes in residential remodels/additions. These specialists
are trained to discuss your priorities and budget and design and draw
your plans, including a list of specifications listing the materials
you want in detail (by brand name, model number, etc. if possible).
Then you can give those to about three different contractors to bid.
You could also interview some design/build contractors who could oversee
it all.
Please return to our site at: http://www.servicemagic.com, and type
"Get Design Help for Remodeling or a New Home" into the
search box to read an information article explaining different ways
to find the right professional(s) for major residential projects.
Then you can enter service requests for whichever professionals you
want to talk to, such as "Architect" "Building Designer"
"Interior Designer" and "General Home Addition"
(to find a Design/Build contractor) and let us match you with the
ideal service professional in your area.
Good luck!
Kathy Maynard |
| |
 |
| |
|
|
