Q. What are the basic costs per square foot prices of homes vs remodeling an existing home?

A. That's really not a question that can be answered. It's going to depend upon the quality of the construction. Cheap residential construction can start around $80/square foot and will go up from there, with high quality construction going from $120/square foot and up. This doesn't really include the property which can vary. Remodeling is difficult to price because sometimes you won't know exactly what will have to be done until you get into it. It takes a lot of experience to bid remodeling work correctly. Another factor is where in the country you are. Some areas cost more than others depending upon cost of living and land value.

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Q. I'm interested in doing a few small projects in my condo (refacing cabinets, new flooring, new countertops), but I'm having trouble finding a contractor. Places like Lowes and Home Depot seem to be geared towards big home remodeling projects. My real estate agent was a nightmare, so I wouldn't trust anyone she suggested. And my boyfriend and dad are very capable, but it would take forever, it would be completely inconvenient for them, and I want to do this on my own since it's my place. Any suggestions? Thanks for the suggestions. I tried the yellow pages and online, but there are so many that I was overwhelmed. I'll try again - because I didn't consider that someone might give me a referral.

A. Well, there are two ways you could do this. You could look in the phone book and call aorund, get estimates on the stuff you want done. Second, you could drive around town and see what contractors are doing work that meets your standard. Just pull over and ask them some questions. That is how we got a few jobs when I still worked in construction. Also, if they are too busy to take on your job, or it's not something they do, they will likely know who you should contact. Also, you could look in the phone book or search in the yellow pages online in your area for the specific type of worker for your project (ie: flooring, cabinets, etc.) Hope that helps. ((Note: If you have a local lumber store, you could go there. There are usually business cards all over the place.))

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Q. Im remodeling my apartment and my roommate chose white to paint the walls in our entry way and living room? i get to choose the carpet or flooring (hardwood, etc) and color of the trim, does anyone know what color of trim, and what type of floor would go nicely with the white walls?

A. Lucky you! I'd rather be allowed to choose flooring and trim any day! That's a keeper whereas paint can be changed. As for what matched white walls, basically everything! White is not a color in decorating, but the absense of all color and that is why you can match it with anything. So, you can buy whatever pleases you! Do keep in mind that the lighter the floor color, the larger the room will appear and the darker the floor color, the smaller the room will appear. Also, lint, dust, etc., shows up more on dark floors. What you choose to use as material for the floor really depends on your budget. Hardwood floors are definitely the best for getting a return on your money. If you can't afford that, then consider these types of flooring: - laminate wood floor - vinyl soft floor covering - bamboo flooring (my favorite, by the way!) - ceramic tile (did you know that you can get ceramic tile that looks soooo much lilke wood, you have to touch it to know the difference? It's better than hardwood since it doesn't scratch and is very resistant!) Will you be painting the trim or using natural wood? If using natural wood, it is advisable to match the floor. Enjoy!

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Q. I'm remodeling my kitchen. The orginal vinyl flooring is really ugly, but not really that bad shape. I want to put new vinyl flooring. What is the best method. I don't see the option of removing the old flooring but instead, putting the new floor on top of the existing. Should I just lay down 1/4 inch luan or is there a better, more professional method?

A. If its only 1 layer down, most manufactures ok it it to go over the existing as long as its in decent shape like you say. Yes the use of a luan or birch luan is the best way to go. The new glue will take to the pores of the wood the best.Filling in the seams w/ a special cement based filler and if theres any imperfections in the wood. I ve always have used Ardex but there are other names out there. Any questions you can e mail me through my avatar. GL

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Q. I am about to have a general contractor perform services for me (tile in kitchen, wood flooring, wallpaper removal). He told me that there is no contract to sign, and that we both can sign the proposal he has given me to act as a contract. I trust the guy, as a trustworthy friend of mine recommended him, but what do I need to do to protect myself? Is there a simple contract I can draw up to ask him to sign? Where can I find it? Thank you.

A. I would tell him that you don't feel comfortable moving forward without a contract. He should respect that and draw one up for you. If not, then you may want to try to find a different contractor. It may be find without one, but if problems arise, a contract might make things much easier to resolve.

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Q. I am remodeling my bathroom and decided to go with Loose Lay Sheet Vinyl Flooring, I have 3/4" subfloor and am going to install 1/4" 5-ply Birch Underlayment on top of this, however, I need a way to fasten this to the subfloor, I have seen Chisel Staples, Ring-Shank Nails, and Underlayment Screws. My problem is deciding which to use, but also, I have been told that you do not want to have the fastener break through the subfloor, meaning I need a fastener < 1" long. Assuming 3/4" is what I need, I cannot for the life of me find 3/4" nails or screws, but I would rather use these then staples. Is there any way I can get 3/4" nails or screws for underlayment installation?

A. Underlayment is normally installed with staples. They are normally 1/4 inch wide and 3/4 to 1 1/4 inches long. Directions call for a staple every six inches on the entire underlayment. These staples will shoot into the top layer of the underlayment. Once fastened, floor leveler is used to fill the dents and joints of the underlayment. This is then sanded lightly to remove excess floor leveler, and make the surface smooth and ready to install the vinyl. Screws or nails will work, but the finished product will look much better if staples are used according to the directions for the underlayment.

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Q. What is the relationship of clean air ducts to furnace safety and furnace efficiency?

A. Save your $$$$,,,will not increase efficiency unless 1/2 full , in my 38 years as an hvac tech i have NEVER seen a safety issue with dirty ducts,,i would clean them if i moved into a house that had alot of pets or there was alot of remodeling

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Q. Owens Corning is just to expensive are there and good competitors for the wall paneling system?

A. As an x employee I can tell you the Owens Corning system is intentionally over priced so the independent sales people can make money. You can get the system for 38% off list if you hold out until they recontact you after showing the sales person the door. However if you don't have any water issues which cause mold and mildew there are alternatives available.

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