Estimating Checklist

MASONRY
If there is a chimney, fireplace, stone or brick facing on the foundation, a mason will need to provide an estimate to you, the GC, or the construction manager. It should specify the type of brick or stone. Ask to see a sample.

INSULATION
Again, the specs should be your guide but whether insulation is required in your climate to keep the heat in or out, insulation is a sensible invest­ment. The kind, thickness, and R-factor of insulation for the walls, floors, and ceilings should be specified, along with the vapor barrier for interior surfaces.

ELECTRICAL, PLUMBING, AND HVAC
The building code and the code enforce­ment officer are your allies here for safety and health concerns. Look for consistency with the specifications (query any variations). Make sure that you see, at least in a cat­alog but preferably in person, any fixtures or appliances specified. Verify model num­bers, colors, and sizes. If additional capacity for hot water, heating, or cooling will be required to service your added space, do your estimates include the prices for a hot water heater, furnace or boiler, air-conditioning components, or other equipment?

WINDOWS AND DOORS
Doors and windows should be highly functional yet they also contribute significantly to the appearance and character of the house. Make sure that your estimates describe doors you like, and that quality lock sets and weather- stripping are included. Are they of a kind and quality consistent with those in the existing house?

INTERIOR TRIM, STAIRS, AND CABINETRY
Window and door trim, baseboards, other moldings like chair and picture rails, and cornices should be specified. Review the sizes, grades, manufacturers, and model numbers of cabinets; if the millwork is custom, make sure the specs include grade and type of stock to be used. If you are adding a stairway, ask to see sample or catalog descriptions of the stair components, including the treads, balusters, and railing.

KITCHEN APPLIANCES, HARDWARE, AND OTHER MATERIALS
Check the specifications carefully to be sure you know exactly what you're paying for. Affirm that what you expect is what you're getting. Sometimes it's best to exclude these from the contract altogether. Shop around on your own and get some deals but stick to the specs. Changes in appliance sizes, for example, can wreak havoc with cabinet orders.