Q. We’re concerned about the cost of our upcoming job. We got estimates that are all over the place, and we want to get the best bang for our buck before we lock and load, if you get my meaning. What do we look for in a builder’s price? A few seem to be giving F.U. numbers because they’re so busy, but how do we know?
A. First, let’s settle the debate about “lock and load.” Coined by Marion Morrison, a.k.a. John Wayne (even he knew his given name was wimpy) in a 1947 war movie, “lock and load” sounds great, like rock ’n’ roll, but is backward. Anyone who handles weaponry knows you actually load first, then lock. Inserting ammunition and then securing is universal, so let’s understand that the phrase sounds good but is wrong.
Speaking of backward, that’s also the way most people get an estimate. I admire contractors who refuse to estimate without detailed — not partially or preliminarily prepared — plans. There’s a lot of guessing in estimating if thorough plans aren’t used.
You can use a basic $175-per-square-foot number to start with, but there are many additional parts that alter the base price from there. For example, insulation is now required to be of much greater proportion than even a few months ago. The latest energy code will require roof rafters and ceiling joists to be larger just to accommodate the deeper insulation. To get the R-38 to R-49 values that have been raised from the previous R-19, foam insulation, which is three times the price of fiberglass, may be necessary just to fit the space provided in most construction, increasing the base price of any home construction project.