The last thing you want to happen during a home improvement project is to exceed your budget. Fortunately, by carefully planning ahead and working with a good roofing, window or siding contractor, you can prevent your project from going over budget. Here are some tips to help you stay within your budget:
Do Your Homework
Spend some time researching the project you’ll be undertaking. Figure out what your projected costs will be and budget accordingly. For example, if you’re looking into replacing your roof, you should take the time to research different manufacturers and roofing materials.
Set Aside a Contingency Fund
A contingency fund is your safety net in case unexpected expenses crop up during the project. We recommend setting aside 20% of your budget for contingencies.
Finalize Your Choices Before the Project Starts
It is certainly possible to change your mind halfway through your project, but it will likely cost you more. Being decisive about your choices – material, styles and color, to name a few – and carefully planning your project will help you avoid spending extra on changes.
Be Wary of Choosing the Lowest Bidder
If you’re comparing quotes from multiple contractors, make it a point to read and understand the contracts before making your choice. Unscrupulous contractors may not be straightforward about the costs indicated, and you might end up paying more for unstated costs. Tear-off and disposal costs are sometimes not included in initial quotes, and in some cases you may need to hire a separate contractor for it. At Universal Roofing and Exteriors, we include all costs involved with the project in our estimate.
To learn more about what we can do for your roof, gutters and other parts of your home, call Universal Roofing and Exteriors today at (317) 257-0779 . You can also fill out our contact form to schedule a free estimate. We are located in Indianapolis, IN, and serve nearby areas including Carmel.
