2023 Home Resources Guide

HOW MUCH DOES KITCHEN REMODELING COST IN CT?

BY PAMELA MAHLER

The fact is, your kitchen renovation cost is going to come down to the details — materials, design choices, and the contractors performing the work. From a small kitchen remodel to a complete kitchen rebuild, this guide will help you estimate your project costs.

THE AVERAGE KITCHEN REMODEL COST IN CT

To find out about the average kitchen remodeling cost in CT, we gathered intel from local experts. We spoke with representatives of two different companies featured on our list of The Best Kitchen Remodelers in CT, based on their reputation, ratings, and reviews.

If your dream kitchen I includes new appliances, countertops, and cabinetry, c you may be wondering about the average kitchen a remodeling cost in CT. emodeling

KITCHENS FROM PAGE 2

After speaking with these experts, we concluded that the average CT kitchen remodeling cost is $37,500, with the local kitchen renovation cost ranging anywhere from $30,000 to $45,000 The national average for kitchen remodeling costs is $25,888, so CT is on the high end. But considering the cost of living in CT is one of the highest in the nation, it’s relatively on par with what you’d expect.

THE BIGGEST KITCHEN REMODELING EXPENSE, ACCORDING TO LOCAL CONTRACTORS

Local kitchen remodelers shared the biggest expense in the process is cabinetry Helio Mota of HM Construction & Painting shared that pricing is highly dependent on the fixtures and cabinetry that clients choose, particularly if clients are interested in complicated and/or custom cabinets Brad Andersen of BC Andersen in Norwalk agreed that cabinets are the largest expense to factor into your kitchen renovation cost, with countertops coming in at a close second.

ADDITIONAL FACTORS THAT IMPACT KITCHEN REMODEL COSTS IN CT Kitchen Size

Andersen revealed that kitchen size also plays a part in pricing. A larger kitchen requires more materials — think drywall, paint, tile, and cabinets — but size is only part of the equation. Andersen explained that subcontractors are required because of the types of work that need to be completed — think electricians and plumbers — and much of the price is calculated based on their rates for the work performed.

Cabinets

As stated, cabinetry is the largest expense to consider Mota shared that anything custom is going to drive up your costs, as opposed to using pre-built stock cabinets. (A full breakdown of the differences between types of cabinets in our cost saving section can be found later in this article.)

Countertop Material

Andersen shared that countertops come in at a close second for the feature that most increases kitchen remodeling costs. Materials will determine the price of

Kitchen Remodeling Cost Breakdown

Sources: National costs: HomeLight, Remodel Gurus, and Forbes. CT averages have been calculated based on the ratio of CT averages to national averages. We additionally relied on information from the following sources: Sweeten Stories; Sunwood Home Builders & Remodelers.

IS ONLY PART OF THE EQUATION.

your overall kitchen countertop, with low-end materials like laminate or ceramic tile priced at around $15 per square foot and high-end materials like reclaimed wood or lava stone costing upwards of $300 per square foot.

Appliances

Appliances aren’t always a major factor in kitchen remodeling costs. Unless top-of-theline appliances are a priority for your remodeling project, neither of the CT kitchen remodeling pros we spoke with mentioned appliances as a major expense when it comes to your overall kitchen renovation cost.

WAYS TO SAVE — EXPERT TIPS

On a budget? Local CT kitchen remodelers gave us a few ways to save on a kitchen remodel. Mota suggests choosing mid-grade or builders’ grade finishes to help save on your overall kitchen renovation cost. You might end up with a simpler look, but if you have the time and skill, you could always work in some DIY projects, like staining cabinets yourself However, lower-grade

materials often lack durability, so keep in mind that while the upfront costs will be lower, replacements may be needed sooner rather than later

As for high cabinetry costs, Andersen recommends using box cabinets, rather than custom cabinets. Box cabinets, or stock cabinets, are pre-built with predetermined dimensions and a limited set of finish options. Box cabinets offer minor customizations — trash pullouts and swappable handles, for example — but they won’t be personally customized to fit your space and aesthetic. Andersen also suggests assembling them yourself, if possible.

As far as choosing moderately priced countertops, Andersen recommends quartz, as it is relatively low cost for its upscale look and feel. Quartz also offers low maintenance costs as opposed to some other countertop materials, like marble.

Another countertop tip we found: when choosing your countertop material, regardless of what type you choose, tiles will always provide savings over using full slabs.

Other ways to save include shopping for lower-end appliances and lighting fixtures

HOW TO FIND THE BEST KITCHEN REMODELING CONTRACTORS IN CT

Our online list of the Best Kitchen Remodeling Companies in CT includes some of the best kitchen contractors near Fairfield, New Haven, and Litchfield counties. To find additional local contractors and find the one right for your job, here are some tips for how to choose the best kitchen contractor for you:

Tip 1: Use Credible Third-Party Sources

Look for prominent kitchen remodelers who service your area on Angi, Houzz, and Home Advisor. Honest feedback from nearby homeowners provides valuable information about costs, professionalism, and quality of the work performed, so you can be sure to choose a trusted local contractor with a sparkling reputation.

Tip 2: Evaluate Customer Reviews

Find kitchen remodeling contractors with strong ratings and a high number of reviews Confirm that the reviews are recent to ensure you’re getting accurate, up-to-date information

Consider what’s most important to you in terms of a working relationship with your remodeling company. Maybe getting the best price is your top priority, or perhaps you’re willing to pay more for a contractor with more experience.

Tip 3: Draw Up Your Short List

Based on the reviews and information gathered thus far, make a list of a few kitchen contractors you’re interested in working with and Google them to get even more reviews Are community members sharing similar feedback here as they did elsewhere? Ensure you’re finding common, positive themes about the remodelers you’re researching.

Tip 4: Determine the Right Kitchen Remodelers for the Job

Once you’ve Googled your short list, visit each merchant’s website Read through their company information to get a feel for the type of work they do, including their strengths and if their service offerings match your desired outcomes

Tip 5: Make Your Final Selection

Call and speak with your top two or three kitchen remodelers in CT to get quotes on your kitchen remodeling cost and set up free in-home assessments. Meeting contractors in person will give you both a better understanding of their ability to complete the job, the approximate cost, timeframe, and any possible speed bumps that could arise Having these conversations will provide necessary insights that help ultimately decide which remodeling company is best for your kitchen renovation project.

The bottom line is that choosing to remodel your kitchen is a big deal and can be a major expense. We hope this cost guide and our list of the Best Kitchen Remodeling Companies in CT help you in your journey toward building your dream kitchen!

going solar inCT

you’ve considered switching to solar power

BY ERIN KENNEY

Zero upfront payment, low maintenance costs, and hefty lifetime savings are just a few reasons to switch to solar in CT. If this sounds good to you, make the leap to clean and renewable energy with help from this simple guide. Zero upfront payment, low maintenance costs, and hefty lifetime savings are just a few reasons to switch to solar in CT. If this sounds good to you, make the leap to clean and renewable energy with help from this simple guide.

STEP 1: FIND THE RIGHT SOLAR CONTRACTOR

The switch to renewable energy can be stress-free if you’re working with the right solar company. Reference customer reviews on Angie’s

List and Houzz for first-hand accounts and review the top solar providers featured on the following pages.

When speaking with CT solar companies, look for patient representatives willing to discuss various topics, like solar panel warranties and system maintenance requirements. A top-notch solar company should offer both labor and product warranties spanning at least ten years, but some don’t cover labor, so inquire up front.

This is your chance to ask solar education questions that properly inform you about the solar conversion process. Ask any questions you have, and understand that the estimating process is perhaps the most crucial factor when choosing a solar company.

If

but find I the process overwhelming, this guide is for you.

STEP 2: FAMILIARIZE YOURSELF WITH THE ESTIMATING PROCESS

Every residential solar installation begins with a solar estimator Estimating is the process of gathering data and using it to produce a cost estimate Typically, solar panel companies look at your last 12 months of energy usage, but other factors like roof pitch and tree coverage can contribute to your estimate. Verify the estimate is honest and accurate by studying your last year of electric bills beforehand and ask to be walked through the quote to understand the factors at play.

A reputable residential solar company has a resume of precise estimates ensuring homeowners aren’t blindsided by cost increases come installation time Comparison shopping from a few solar providers is smart, but remember, cheapest isn’t always best

A Word from Local CT Solar Experts About Solar Estimating

Experts at Shoreline Solar, a CT solar panel company based in Branford, CT, say that in most cases, the monthly payment is locked and no changes occur post-estimate.

STEP 3: UNDERSTAND HOW SOLAR PANELS ARE PRICED IN CT

Solar energy costs are calculated in kilowatts and according to Everlast Energy, the average-sized residential solar system clocks in at around 10 kilowatts The total system price varies, but according to Shoreline Solar

If you consistently save energy each month, you could theoretically replace your fuel electricity payment with your solar system payment, making the transition wallet-friendly EnergySage shared that going solar in CT reduces your electricity bill payments to approximately $32,000 over a 20-year period Most solar companies also offer low-interest financing for affordable transition options.

If your roof is over 15 years old, your estimator may recommend a replacement or rejuvenation before you install solar panels.

A Word from Local CT Solar Experts About Surprise Costs

According to Alex Ciccio and Joshua Jackson, solar experts at Everlast Energy, a CT solar company based in Rocky Hill, CT, only about 30% of homes need a full replacement The cost of replacing your roof and solar panels can often be combined for an easy, affordable payment plan

STEP 4: IDENTIFY THE RIGHT FINANCING OPTIONS FOR YOU

There are several options for solar payment, including purchasing, leasing, and financing. If you finance your solar installation, expect payments to be set on a 20- or 25-year term at a 1.99% interest rate, according to experts at Shoreline Solar and Everlast Energy. In some cases, payment timelines can also be customized.

Power Purchase Agreements

25,000–45,000.

Power Purchase Agreements (PPA) may be attractive for CT homeowners interested in going solar through a third party According to the Solar Energy Industries Association, a PPA is a financial agreement between a homeowner and a developer, wherein the developer arranges for the design, permitting, financing and installation of a solar energy system on a customer’s property at little to no cost. Essentially, the third-party developer handles a homeowner’s entire solar journey, from installation to system operation over a five to 25-year period. At the end of the PPA term, a customer may be able to extend the contract, have the developer remove the system, or decide to buy the solar energy system from the developer

Solar Reviews warns that opting for a PPA discredits you from the landscape of tax credits and incentives available on a state and federal level.

STEP 5: SAVE ON SOLAR IN CT WITH INCENTIVES

Thanks to state and federal initiatives, people switching from traditional fuel to solar energy have several discount and payback options. The Connecticut-backed Residential Renewable Energy Solutions program allows residential solar users to

TYPICALLY FALLS BETWEEN

sell conserved energy back to their utility company at a fixed 20-year price through one of two tariff program options: Buy-back and Netting

The Federal Tax Credit for Solar Photovoltaics, also known as the Investment Tax Credit (ITC), is another way to save on solar. The program offers a 30% tax credit on installations occurring between 2022 and 2032.

STEP 6: OBTAIN THE PROPER PERMITS

After you’ve accepted the estimate and signed a contract for solar installation, the plan will be checked by a building inspector for compliance with local building codes This inspector also spends time verifying that all the proper permits are in place for work to begin

Permit stipulations include, but are not limited to, home distance to wetlands, relation to core forestry lands, and distance from flood land areas. Depending on flags found during this visit, this inspection and permitting process may take several months before the project gets denied or cleared for installation.

STEP 7: HAVE YOUR SOLAR PANELS INSTALLED

Once you’ve wrapped up permitting, it’s time to transition to solar! The installation process is quick — most contractors place panels on your roof in around six hours Next, an electrician will connect your system to the Connecticut power grid, activate your panels and install an electrical meter that messages solar production. Remember to review your solar system unit with your on-site team and ask any questions you have.

It’s important to note that your contractor must be a certified E-1 Unlimited Electrical Contractor to complete both the electric grid and panel connection. A PV-1 Limited Solar Electric Contractor may also be on-site solely to connect your residential solar panels, as they are not licensed for power grid connection Once installed, it will take between one and six weeks for a final city and utility company inspection to provide final approval

So, Are You Making the Switch to Solar in CT?

How often does something have both a financial and humanitarian upside? By using renewable energy, you will save tens of thousands of dollars while contributing to the health of our planet. It almost sounds too good to be true, but it’s not, and we hope this guide makes your switch to solar easy to navigate.

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HOW MUCH DOES BATHROOM REMODELING COST IN CT?

BY PAMELA MAHLER

If you find yourself daydreaming about a new double vanity, a pristine clawfoot tub, p and a complete bathroom tile makeover, you’re bound to start wondering bou about how much it costs to remodel a bathroom in CT.

14 | HOME RESOURCE GUIDE | MARCH 2023 HEARST CONNECTICUT MEDIA GROUP

BATHROOMS FROM PAGE 12

The good news is that there are a slew of local bathroom refitters eager to redo your loo, whether you’re in the market for a shower remodel or a complete floor-to-ceiling overhaul. When it comes to the cost of remodeling a bathroom in CT — like most of life’s high-ticket items — the devil’s in the details. We’ve taken the liberty of researching what to consider when calculating your CT bathroom remodel cost and — pardon the pun — how flush you need to be to build the bathroom of your dreams.

THE AVERAGE BATHROOM REMODEL COST IN CT

By speaking with local experts in the bathroom remodeling industry, we gathered pertinent information about the average cost to remodel a bathroom in CT According to our research, the average bathroom remodeling cost in CT first depends on the type of bathroom: half, guest, or master Guest and master bathrooms are typically similar in price save for extraordinarily lavish master bath upgrades and on average, the CT bathroom remodel cost for master and guest bathrooms lands around $19,500.

Overall, the bathroom remodeling cost in CT for full bathrooms ranges from $14,000 to $25,000, with supremely high-end master bathrooms costing up to $50,000. The national average cost to remodel a bathroom ranges between $6,616 and $16,658, making

the cost to remodel a bathroom in CT above the national average But CT homeowners who are interested in saving money can certainly get the job done within the national average range (Home Advisor)

Half-bathroom remodels come with a smaller price tag, and generally can be remodeled within the range of $5,000 to $10,000. It’s also possible to give a guest or master bathroom a “facelift” with a tub and/or shower remodel in the neighborhood of $7,000 to $12,000.

THE BIGGEST BATHROOM REMODELING EXPENSE ACCORDING TO LOCAL CONTRACTORS

Any time you change the layout of a bathroom, it raises costs exponentially. Greg Montesano of Re-Bath Fairfield County explained that changing the footprint of a bathroom requires changing electrical wires and plumbing, and these extra services can become costly.

Labor accounts for more than half your CT bathroom remodel cost, and changing the layout of your bathroom is the most labor-intensive type of bathroom remodel. It can actually add $5,000 or more to any bathroom remodeling cost in CT. (Bob Vila)

ITEM CT COST AVERAGE % OF BUDGET LABOR $3,900 20% CABINETRY $3,120 16% FIXTURES $2,925 15% FAUCETS/PLUMBING $2,730 14% FLOORING $1,755 9% COUNTERTOPS $1,365 7% WALLS/CEILINGS $975 5% DESIGN FEES $780 4% DOORS/WINDOWS $780 4%

and across the nation from local experts and Home Advisor, respectively. Budget percentages are recommendations from the National Kitchen & Bath Association, per HGTV

FACTORS THAT IMPACT BATHROOM REMODEL COSTS IN CT

Size of Bathroom

Anytime a homeowner decides to remodel a room in their home, size factors into the price. More wall space requires more paint and tile, larger floors require more tile, and more materials always cost more money — plus the extra hours of labor required to complete the job

Material Costs

From sink fixtures to floor tiles to tubs, all the materials needed will contribute to your overall bathroom renovation cost. Certain finishes matte black and brushed gold are the most expensive, says Montesano. Andrew, a representative of Branford CT bathroom refitters, We Improve For You, told us that one of the most

Mike DeLuca Publisher

Ashley Sanderson Special Sections Designer

BATHROOMS

FROM PAGE 14

expensive parts of any bathroom remodel job is the tub or shower wall-surround Depending on materials used — solid surface surround prices can climb up to $2,000 — plus the labor needed to properly install it, it’s easy to see how this piece of your bathroom remodel can become one of the higher ticket items. (HomeGuide)

Changing the Floor Plan & Demolition Costs

Demolition costs are included in the services provided by local CT bathroom refitters, according to the experts who spoke with us. However, as noted earlier in this article, changing the floor plan of your bathroom is the most expensive piece in a CT bathroom remodel cost.

Rewiring electrical pathways, redoing the plumbing, and ensuring your floors are structurally sound to hold heavy tubs filled

with water plus the weight of an adult person mean hiring more experts to do intricate, labor-intensive work. (Bob Vila)

Water Damage Repair

Some bathroom remodel estimates include water damage repair, others do not. It’s recommended to reserve 5% to 10% of your estimate for unforeseen expenses, one of which may be repairing water damage to your walls or electrical circuits It’s not uncommon for bathrooms to exhibit hidden water damage once construction begins Montesano shared that 25% to 50% of the time, a bathroom remodel will cost more than originally quoted because of this issue.

WAYS TO SAVE EXPERT TIPS

On a budget? Local CT bathroom remodelers give insider tips on ways you can save on a bathroom remodel.

● The number one way to save on a bathroom remodel cost in CT is to keep your bathroom layout as-is. (Montesano)

● Complicated tile designs drive prices up; choose simple, white designs to lower the cost to remodel a bathroom in CT. (Andrew)

● Ask contractors about financing options. (Andrew)

● Select chrome fixtures they are timeless and always the least expensive (Montesano)

We’re glad to provide you with this bathroom remodel cost guide and we hope it helps you understand what to expect as you embark on your journey toward the bathroom of your dreams. Happy remodeling!

REWIRING ELECTRIC, REROUTING PLUMBING, & STRUCTURAL WORK ALL REQUIRE AN

How to Find the Best Fin

Bathroom Remodeling Contractors in CT

Our curators researched CT bathroom refitters and remodelers to create an online list of The Best Bathroom Remodeling Companies in CT We recommend starting there to find the best bathroom remodelers near you, but if you’d like to conduct some extra research on your own, follow these tips:

TIP 1

Look for CT bathroom remodelers in your area on sites like Angi, Houzz, and HomeAdvisor.

TIP 2

Select a handful of service providers who have a high number of positive ratings and reviews.

TIP 3

Google your selections; there will be additional ratings and reviews on Google, plus their websites.

TIP 4

View their websites to get a feel for the type of work they do and if it aligns with your vision.

TIP 5

Contact your top 2–3 choices and inquire about your project, including how long it would take, what steps you’d need to take to move forward, and of course, get a quote for your CT bathroom remodeling cost from a few CT bathroom refitters before making your final decision.

BY ERIN KENNEY

HOW MUCH DOES WINDOW REPLACEMENT COST IN CT?

Replacing your windows increases your home’s value and reduces your utility bills, but how much does it cost?

This article addresses many cost scenarios, so you’re primed for the estimate process and can budget accordingly. Once you understand average window costs and learn ways you can save, you’ll be ready to find the best window replacement company in CT for the job

THE AVERAGE COST OF WINDOW REPLACEMENT IN CT

As there are many variables to consider, it’s best to understand the average cost of window replacements are a range, not an exact number. Vinyl windows are the most common type of window replacement in CT and range from $600 to $900 for a single standard double-hung window, including installation A standard wood double-hung window replacement is another common but more expensive option, ranging from $800 to $1,100, including installation.

Intricate windows bay, arched, and circular cost more because of their unique qualities and the labor required to install them properly. Add-on features for your windows will increase your costs.

PRO TIP: Local experts from Power Home Remodeling in Trumbull say that cost estimates are typically proportionate to the number of windows you purchase, but certain contractors, manufacturers, or companies might reduce the price per unit depending on the number of windows included within your project. As a result, Connecticut residents may save more money on windows by buying in bulk.

FACTORS THAT IMPACT CT WINDOW REPLACEMENT COSTS

To estimate the total cost unique to your residential window replacement needs, be aware of a few key factors before contacting window companies

Replacement Technique: Pocket and Full-Frame

Window replacement companies install windows using two techniques: pocket and full-frame

● Pocket/retrofit window replacement is more cost effective and recommended for homes in great condition with no rot or water damage.

● Full-frame window replacement is necessary for frames in poor condition, when installing custom

windows, or changing your current window layout. Due to added labor and materials, it can cost 20%–25% more than a pocket replacement.

Frame Selection

Another variable that affects window replacement costs is window frame. Popular options like vinyl, wood, fiberglass, composite, and aluminum vary in quality and cost.

● Aluminum: Perhaps the most affordable of all options, costs start around $75/frame. Despite its attractive price, this frame lacks insulation other options have.

● Vinyl: A popular and affordable option, costs start at $150/frame. Beware, customizations can raise costs to upwards of $900

● Wood: Adds charm to your home’s exterior and costs anywhere from $150 to over $1,300, depending on the window type it’s paired with

● Composite: Offers dual benefits: exterior durability plus the beauty of wood on the interior. Prices range between $300 and $1,200 per window.

● Fiberglass: Similar to vinyl in their insulation abilities with increased durability Priced between $500 and $1,500/window

Type and Size of Glass

Special glasses like tinted and tempered glass can impact your overall window replacement cost. Below is an overview of specialty glass varieties with the average materials cost range per window.

● Tempered: $180–$700

● Laminated: $275–$625

● Frosted: $350–$800

● Gas-Filled, like Krypton and Argon: $325–$1,190

Window Brand

Once you’ve selected your window type and frame, choose a brand that reflects your values sleek design, energy efficiency, durability, or extended warranty policies

Prices vary between brands and within a singular brand between lower-end and higher-end products. No matter the brand, windows should include a lifetime warranty policy.

7TipstoSaveonReplacementWindows 7TipstoSaveonReplacemen

TIP 1: USE CONTRACTORGRADE WINDOWS

Contractor-grade or builder-grade windows are the lowest-cost window replacement option, but they can lack durability. Your selection depends on how long you’d like your windows to last and if you prefer your savings upfront or in the long term.

TIP 2: CHOOSE CONVENTIONAL WINDOW STYLES

Choosing standard windows like doublehung, single-hung, sliding, fixed, or casement windows will give you the best value

TIP 3: GET ENERGY-EFFICIENT WINDOWS

Choosing an energy-efficient window replacement may help you save on utilities for years to come. Energy Star windows

reduce monthly utility bills by a national average of 12%, and you may also find applicable rebates.

TIP 4: GET MULTIPLE QUOTES

Getting multiple estimates from local window replacement providers ensures you get a fair quote. Be sure your quote is itemized and ask about current company rebates or sales. It never hurts to negotiate; some companies are receptive and will shift costs that better fit your ideal budget.

TIP 5: GET WINDOWS IN THE OFF-SEASON

Window replacement companies are busiest in spring and fall, so you could save in the off-season, but be mindful: temperature extremes can impact your energy cost, thus negating some of your savings.

TIP 6: REPLACE ALL WINDOWS AT ONCE

When remodeling a large portion of your home, budgeting your window replacement to occur all at once can help you save. Ask about volume pricing to ensure you’re getting the best deal.

TIP 7: CUT UPFRONT EXPENSES WITH FINANCING

Most window replacement companies offer low-interest financing. Reduce your monthly payments and save on interest by utilizing cash as a down payment. Other financing options include a home equity loan or line of credit, which have lower interest rates than credit cards. In the end, if you know where to save and how to budget, you can give your home a much-needed facelift without overpaying.

Window Location

Where you place windows in your home directly impacts cost Per Bob Vila, basement windows must be larger for safety reasons, making them more costly Smaller windows are often the least expensive Large windows like foyer, dining room, and bay can range from $300 to over $1,000.

Condition of Your Home

For older homes, prices can be double or triple those of new homes. Replacing windows in these homes can cost between $800 and $3,000, per the national average

Bringing an older home up to code adds expenses, but if your older home has little-to-no structural frame damage, it’s possible to replace only the window glass, bringing the cost average down to nearly $350 per window.

Labor Costs

The national average cost of labor for window installation (and removal) ranges between $28 and $60 per window but varies between companies, job sizes, and window styles. Most contractors estimate labor costs by the hour, meaning if your new window project is prolonged, your overall costs will increase

Permitting

Structural changes to a CT home require a building permit, so be sure your quote includes itemized permitting fees. CT building permit fees are based on the project cost. In Stamford, residential building permits cost $13 per $1,000 worth of estimated construction cost with a $60 minimum fee. Additionally, you will be assessed a fee of 26 cents per $1,000 to state Ed Fund fees

Statewide, permit fees range from $8–$14.26 per $1,000, and the additional 26 cents per $1,000 to the state Ed Fund is applicable across CT

Window Upgrades

The latest windows offer numerous customization options, like double or triple-paned glass, soundproofing, and energy-efficient upgrades like Low-E coatings. Experts at Power Home Remodeling report that custom products with installation can cost upwards of $2,500 per unit

HOW MUCH DOES ROOF REPLACEMENT COST IN CT?

BY PAMELA MAHLER

If you’ve noticed curled or missing shingles, mold growth atop your home, or unsavory un leaks, you’re probably wondering about roof replacement and the cost to replace a roof in CT.

Roofing Cost by Material

Depending on what type of roof, the average lifespan of a roof is 12 to 30 years, and different materials come with varying price points. From cost approximations for roof shingles to complete roof replacement figures, this guide can help you plan how much to budget for replacing a roof in CT.

Keep in mind, when it comes to the average cost of a new roof, most quotes are “per square,” and one square is equal to 100 square feet.

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THE COST OF ROOF REPLACEMENT IN CT

Calculating a roof replacement price quote isn’t as simple as gathering the cost of materials alone. There are several bundled costs included in the price to replace your roof, and your roofer should be able to provide an itemized estimate to help you further understand the cost breakdown to install a new roof on your home

● Harnessing and Transport: The number of stories and ease or difficulty of accessing your roof contribute to cost.

The harder or higher to reach, the more harnessing and climbing to transport materials, and, in turn, the higher the expense to you.

● Labor and Permits: The average cost of labor accounts for 60% of the total cost and lies between $150 and $300 per square.

● Haul-Away: When a new roof goes up, an old roof comes down. While you may be able to assume the responsibility of debris removal, it’s typically bundled in the roof replacement cost and best left to the professionals.

THE AVERAGE ROOF REPLACEMENT COST IN CT

When researching the average cost of a new roof, we went straight to the experts. Our team spoke with local roofers to get facts and figures as they relate to CT roof replacement. Based on the information we gathered, the average roof replacement cost in CT is $612.50 per square, with the per-square cost ranging from $375 to $850

The National Average Cost to Replace a Roof

Thankfully, unlike pricier home improvement expenses in Connecticut, the average cost of a new roof in CT is right on par with the national average. Angi reports the national average for a roof replacement to be around $8,962 and in Connecticut, the average is $8,698, mere dollars over the national cost estimate.

OTHER FACTORS THAT IMPACT CT ROOF REPLACEMENT COSTS

Materials

Materials play a big part in determining the cost to replace a roof in CT. Listed above are the national average per square cost of common roofing materials. You’ll notice that some materials have a wide

IN CT WREAK HAVOC ON ROOFS

PAGE 24

price range, so speak to a local CT roofer for a more accurate idea of the cost of materials for your residential roof

Roof Size

One of the biggest factors to consider when calculating roof replacement costs is the size of your roof. A large part of the quote will be materials used per square, meaning that every 100 square feet will add to the final cost of your new roof.

Roof Pitch

Other than the size of your roof and the roof materials, its pitch will be a significant factor in determining the cost of your roof replacement. Essentially, the steeper the roof the more materials to cover it, and consequently, the more labor required to install them.

Special Features

How Winter Win Affects CT Roofs, According to Local Experts

The cold winters in CT wreak havoc on roofs; Sanservino of Able Roofing and Rabdishta both warn of probable ice and water damage and advise homeowners to get a high-quality ice and water shield Rabdistha recommends finding someone who will go above and beyond the building code regulations

Omar M Hotak of Shoreline Solar shared that in CT, homeowners should be mindful of shingles “popping” from the wind, meaning they don’t lay properly on the roof. “Stay mindful of algae buildup,” Hotak added, and he advised those replacing a roof in CT to consider algae-fighting shingles as part of their roof replacement plan.

Any special features within your roof will increase roof replacement costs. Chimneys, skylights, and any other complicated roof features will require more labor, and more labor means more money, shared Sonny Rabdishta, co-owner of Albana Roofing, LLC located in Prospect, CT. For example, a single skylight can add $500 to the average cost of a new roof in labor alone.

Damaged Plywood

Every local CT roofing expert we spoke with shared that weather-damaged plywood replacement can add around 30% to your roof replacement cost in CT — often a cost that homeowners haven’t factored into their budget.

WAYS TO SAVE ON ROOFING COSTS

On a budget? We found ways to save on your roof replacement, through research and speaking with local professionals. Roof maintenance, repair, and replacement play a major role in maintaining your home and preserving its value.

Here are our tips for taking care of your roofing needs while remaining mindful of your overall financial picture:

TIP 1: USE FINANCING

Financing is a viable option, especially when working with a solar company, as CT solar companies often offer to bundle roof replacement with solar installation, allowing homeowners to pay for the project over time. Of course, while financing won’t provide savings, it can minimize the up-front costs associated with buying a new roof, lessening the project’s impact on your family’s budget.

TIP 2: OPT FOR BUDGET-FRIENDLY MATERIALS

There are a variety of materials to use when replacing your roof which come with a range of price points Speak with local roofers about what materials will get you the best value based on your home’s size and location. Be mindful that lower-quality material can sometimes impact the longevity of your roof replacements, requiring another replacement sooner than later.

TIP 3: KEEP UP WITH ROOF MAINTENANCE

Keep up with roof maintenance — roof repairs cost less than a complete roof replacement — keeping your roof in good shape will help you squeeze the most life out of it.

TIP 4: WISELY CHOOSE YOUR CONTRACTOR

The cheapest roofer won’t necessarily be the best roofer for the job, so be sure to shop around. Meet with local pros who have the proper credentials — and a great reputation — for completing a job well done. Be sure to interview a few CT roofers in-person to get a quote and a feel for their communication style, and expertise.

HOW TO CHOOSE A ROOFER IN CT

When replacing a roof in CT, working with a reputable roofer is of utmost importance. By taking the time to select qualified contractors, either through word-of-mouth or doing your own research online, you should be able to find a moderately-priced roofer that’s well-equipped for the work.