Home construction repairs start with an estimate.
Construction can range from building a deck, repairing or replacing a roof, building an outdoor patio to remodeling a bathroom/bedroom/living or dining room. Many of these projects are tackled by do-it-yourselfers when they find out the costs associated with hiring contractors. Even if you plan to do the repairs yourself, you need to formulate a budget before beginning construction. Estimating the costs involves contacting several informed sources. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Money flies away quickly; estimate construction repairs beforehand!
Devise a game plan and budget. Which areas of your home do you want to repair? Before you begin to estimate the costs, determine how much you have in your budget to spend. Make a list, and check it twice to determine which repairs are most pressing. Consider your top priorities, and begin with them.
2. Contact reliable sources.
Contact several sources. Gathering estimates from several contractors is a good place to start. You can check with your local real estate offices for a list of reputable contractors, many of whom will render free estimates. Alternatively, you can search online for a contractor in your state.
3. Consider a makeover for the rest(ful) rooms.
Determine the cost. With your collection of estimates and detailed reports from the contractors, review the list to determine which of the repairs you can do yourself. Compile your own estimate, and do not forget to add in the value of your own time and energy to perform the work. Compare your estimate with those of the contractors. For help in estimating the cost, you can visit the Old House Web online.
4. Living/dining areas may be more comfortable with upgraded heating or cooling systems.
Think efficiently. The federal government offers incentives for including such upgrades as energy-efficient windows, heating/cooling systems and appliances. You can visit the U.S. Department of Energy website for additional information regarding the improvement tax credits and incentives available to consumers.
5. Create curb appeal, and increase the value and energy efficiency of your home.
Look outside. There are important construction repairs that will improve the curb appeal of your home. Even building a deck can add thousands of dollars to the appraisal of your home. According to home improvement TV show host Bob Vila, landscaping "can add 20 percent to the value of your property and save up to 25 percent in heating and cooling costs." Many of the projects can be done yourself if you contact a certified arborist. Your local cooperative extension office can help locate one near you.
Tags: your home, heating cooling, building deck, construction repairs, cooling systems
