Why Can Two Estimates for the Same Project Be Thousands of Dollars Apart?

Homeowners sometimes assume that contractors looking at the same house should arrive at approximately the same price.

That would make sense if every contractor were quoting exactly the same project.

Often, they are not.

Differences can include:

• Product manufacturer and product line
• Material quality and specifications
• Window glass packages
• Siding thickness or construction
• Removal of existing materials
• Wall or opening preparation
• Insulation and weatherproofing
• Flashing details
• Interior and exterior trim
• Accessories
• Cleanup and disposal
• Manufacturer warranties
• Workmanship guarantees
• Service after installation

When those items are different, you are not really comparing the same project.

Start With the Product, Not the Price

One of the easiest ways to lower an estimate is to quote a less expensive product.

That does not automatically make the product bad. A value-oriented product can be appropriate for many homes and budgets.

The important thing is knowing what you are buying.

Your estimate should identify the manufacturer, product line, model or profile, color, and major specifications. If the proposal simply says "vinyl siding" or "replacement windows," ask for more detail.

With Vinyl Siding, Product Differences Can Be Significant

Two estimates may both say "vinyl siding" while quoting products at very different levels.

Vinyl siding products can differ in thickness, rigidity, profile depth, locking systems, nail-hem construction, texture, color selection, wind-load performance, and accessory options.

A thinner value-oriented panel and a heavier premium panel should not be expected to cost exactly the same.

Ask the contractor to show you the actual siding and explain the manufacturer specifications before comparing prices.

You can explore the siding options available from Suburban Construction to see why material selection should be part of the comparison.

Replacement Windows Can Look Similar and Perform Very Differently

The same principle applies to replacement windows.

Two white double-hung windows can look similar from across the room while having different frame construction, glass packages, weatherstripping, hardware, energy ratings, and warranties.

Compare:

• Manufacturer and window series
• Double-pane versus triple-pane glass
• Low-E glass coatings
• Gas fill
• Frame and sash construction
• U-factor
• Solar Heat Gain Coefficient
• Weatherstripping
• Hardware
• Manufacturer warranty

Review Suburban's replacement window styles to learn more about the different configurations available.

Installation Can Be Where the Real Price Difference Hides

Even when two contractors quote similar products, the installation can be very different.

Proper exterior remodeling can involve considerably more than removing one product and attaching another.

Depending on the project, good installation may require:

• Removing existing materials
• Inspecting the underlying wall or opening
• Correcting minor preparation issues
• Installing appropriate weather protection
• Flashing vulnerable areas
• Insulating around windows and doors
• Installing trim and accessories correctly
• Sealing appropriate joints
• Cleaning the jobsite
• Disposing of old materials

If one contractor includes these details and another does not, the difference in price begins to make more sense.

What Happens When Hidden Damage Is Found?

Exterior projects sometimes reveal problems that could not be seen during the original estimate.

Removing siding may uncover deteriorated sheathing. Removing a window or door may reveal damaged wood or evidence of previous water intrusion.

Before choosing a contractor, ask how these situations are handled.

Will the contractor stop and show you the problem? Will you receive a price before additional work is performed? Will the change be documented in writing?

A clear process can prevent an inexpensive estimate from becoming an unexpectedly expensive final bill.

Don't Overlook Trim and Finishing Details

Trim can have a surprisingly large impact on both the price and appearance of a project.

With siding, look at window and door trim, corners, soffit, fascia, mounting blocks, J-channel, transitions, and custom aluminum work.

With replacement windows and doors, ask what interior and exterior finishing is included.

A lower estimate may look attractive because some of these finishing details are simply not part of the proposal.

A Manufacturer Warranty Is Only Part of the Story

Homeowners often compare warranties by looking for the word "lifetime."

Instead, read what the warranty actually covers.

• Which components are covered?
• Is coverage prorated?
• Is labor included?
• Is the warranty transferable?
• What exclusions apply?
• Who handles a claim?

Two products can both advertise long warranties without providing identical coverage.

Ask About the Contractor's Workmanship Guarantee

The manufacturer generally warrants the product. The contractor is responsible for how it is installed.

That makes workmanship protection an important part of the value equation.

Suburban Construction Inc. backs its installations with a lifetime workmanship guarantee.

Ask every contractor you are considering how long they stand behind their installation and what happens if you need service later.

The Lowest Price Today May Not Be the Lowest Cost Over Time

Price and cost are not always the same thing.

The price is what appears on the estimate. The long-term cost can also include repairs, service, maintenance, replacement parts, energy performance, and potentially replacing a product earlier than expected.

That does not mean you should automatically choose the most expensive estimate.

It means the best deal should be evaluated over the life of the improvement—not just on the day you sign the contract.

Sometimes the Lowest Estimate Really Is the Best Deal

A lower estimate should not automatically make you suspicious.

A contractor may have lower overhead, better purchasing power, an efficient installation process, or simply a more competitive pricing structure.

The lowest estimate may be an excellent choice when:

• The products are comparable
• The scope of work is complete
• The installation process is clearly explained
• The warranties are comparable
• The contractor has a strong reputation
• The company has an established local history
• You understand exactly what is included

If all of those things check out, paying less can absolutely be a good deal.

Red Flags in an Unusually Low Estimate

If one proposal is dramatically lower than every other estimate, look carefully before signing.

Questions worth asking include:

• Is the exact product identified?
• Is removal included?
• Is disposal included?
• Is wall or opening preparation included?
• Are flashing and weatherproofing addressed?
• Are all trim and accessories included?
• Are permits included when required?
• Is cleanup included?
• Is there a written workmanship warranty?
• Does the contractor have an established local business?

If the answers are vague, the low price may not represent the complete cost of the project.

Verify the Company Before You Compare the Price

The contractor's history should be part of your buying decision.

Look at independent reviews, business history, accreditation, local presence, and how long the company has been serving homeowners in your area.

Suburban Construction Inc. has served Quad Cities homeowners since 1985.

You can also independently review our company through the Better Business Bureau.

View Suburban Construction Inc.'s BBB Business Profile

See What You're Buying Before You Decide

One of the best ways to understand why estimates differ is to compare the actual products.

Suburban Construction maintains a Davenport showroom where homeowners can see and operate replacement windows, look at entry doors, compare siding products and colors, and discuss different options before making a decision.

Learn more about our Quad Cities home improvement showroom .