When you're thinking about building a new home, cost is a major factor. While you can use design software with built-in estimators, it can't accurately foretell the fluctuating costs of materials in your community; it can only offer a ballpark estimate. To get a more accurate assessment, break down the construction process into stages.
Instructions
1. Figure foundation and flatwork costs by converting the project into cubic yards. Contact a concrete supplier and ask what the company charges per cubic yard of concrete. Also, ask about a delivery charge. Be sure to add extra sand and reinforcing steel to your total, in addition to a rental charge for foundation forms.
2. Use a linear foot measurement when estimating the dimensional lumber needed to frame the home. Start at the bottom, with the seal plates that fit directly onto the foundation. Work your way up, allowing for framing studs on a minimum of 16-inch centers. Remember to count the extra framing material for doors and windows and figure in an amount of square footage loss due to cut and waste.
3. Measure a sufficient amount of electrical wire to safely supply energy needs and satisfy applicable building codes. Count all the outlets and switches in each room and any you want to install in a garage or utility area. Do the same with the heat and air ducting and plumbing.
4. Add up the number of doors and windows and look at different brands to determine your favorite choices. Windows and doors vary greatly in price depending on style and quality. Include all insulation, moisture and vapor barriers.
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5. Choose cabinetry as one unit if you plan to have them built to your specifications. Although this puts some labor in your estimate, it's unavoidable unless you plan to fashion your own cabinetry. Include bathroom, laundry and utility room cabinets in addition to those that go in the kitchen.
6. Customize your interior finish items and check out the prices for all of them. This is where your budget takes a big increase. Figure in each toilet, sink, tub, shower, flooring and light fixture. If you want tile backsplashes or granite countertops, this is the place to include them.
7. Take your home plans to a do-it-yourself center or lumberyard for a custom quote on exterior materials if you plan to install them yourself. If a bricklayer or siding contractor will be involved, they may provide their own materials at your expense. Contact them before adding the amount to your estimate.
8. Figure the amount of roofing material needed to sheet, waterproof and shingle the roof. Roofing materials sell by the "square," a measurement that indicates 100 square feet of coverage. Allow for waste with shingles that overhang and need trimming. Remember to include guttering and downspouts.
9. Compile your estimated materials list and call for prices. Alternately, some lumberyards will give you a material list for specific portions of your construction project.
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