Remodeling your home can be exciting — new spaces, better function, improved curb appeal, higher value. But almost every homeowner is surprised at some point by costs they didn’t plan for. Some are small. Some
 not so small. And many are completely avoidable with the right kind of contractor.

Today, we’re pulling back the curtain on the hidden costs of remodeling so you can plan confidently and avoid being blindsided.

🔧 1. Structural Surprises Behind the Walls

It’s the classic HGTV moment:

A wall comes down, everyone freezes, and someone says, “Uh oh
”

Examples we see often:

  • Rotten wood behind siding
  • Water intrusion in the sheathing
  • Faulty framing
  • Unsupported loads
  • Previous DIY work that wasn’t done to code
  • Old decks tied into homes incorrectly
  • Improperly vented bathrooms leading to mold

These aren’t “fun” surprises — but they must be repaired before a remodel continues.

Why it costs more:

Fixing structural issues requires labor, materials, inspections, and sometimes engineering.

How to avoid big surprises:

Hire a company that does thorough inspections before giving quotes (hi, that’s us).

⚡ 2. Outdated Electrical or Plumbing

Any home built before the 90s risks:

  • Aluminum wiring
  • Overloaded panels
  • Galvanized pipes
  • Unvented gas appliances
  • Non-GFCI outlets

Contractors can’t legally finish a remodel if these hazards remain.

Why it costs more:

Bringing systems up to code means opening walls, replacing lines, and upgrading infrastructure.

Pro tip:

If your home is older than 1985, there will be something outdated — budget for it.

đŸȘš 3. Code Changes You Didn’t Know About

Building codes change constantly.

Examples that catch homeowners off-guard:

  • Deck joist spans
  • Guardrail height
  • Staircase rise/run
  • Ventilation requirements
  • Energy efficiency minimums
  • Ice & water shield placement
  • Fastening patterns for roofing or siding

You’re responsible for bringing your project to current code — not the old one.

At Stan’s, we design everything to today’s standards so you don’t get hit with rework fees.

đŸšïž 4. Hidden Water Damage (The Silent Bank Account Killer)

Water is sneaky. It finds its way into:

  • Roof decking
  • Behind siding
  • Around windows
  • Behind showers
  • Under decking boards
  • Foundation walls

You might not see it until demolition begins.

This is the #1 hidden cost of remodeling nationwide.

It’s also the #1 reason we do detailed pre-job inspections with photos and moisture readings.

đŸȘ” 5. Material Price Fluctuations

The industry still sees price swings in:

  • Lumber
  • Shingles
  • Metals
  • Fasteners
  • Insulation
  • PVC and composites

A quote from 60 days ago might not match today’s material costs.

At Stan’s:

We lock in pricing for a set period and communicate changes early. No “gotchas.”

⚠ 6. Poor Work From Past Contractors

Unfortunately, we see this constantly.

Bad past work leads to:

  • Re-framing
  • Re-supporting
  • Removal & disposal
  • Rebuilding entire sections

If the last contractor cut corners, your remodel budget absorbs that fix.

This is also why we stress choosing licensed, insured, reputable professionals.

🧰 7. Change Orders (Yes, They Add Up Fast)

Some change orders are unavoidable.

But many are simply design decisions homeowners didn’t think about ahead of time.

Examples:

  • “Let’s upgrade to designer shingles.”
  • “Actually
 can we add lighting here?”
  • “Let’s expand the deck after all.”
  • “Can we move this wall two more feet?”

Small upgrades compound quickly.

How to avoid over-budget upgrades:

Ask your contractor for a full design conversation before you sign the contract.

đŸ§č 8. Cleanup, Dump Fees & Site Prep

Most homeowners don’t realize:

  • Dumpsters cost money
  • Disposal fees keep rising
  • Large projects need multiple containers
  • Site protection materials add cost (tarps, plastic, plywood)

These aren’t glamorous, but they’re essential.

At Stan’s, we include these upfront in our quotes so they’re never a surprise.

🔹 9. Labor for “Small Fixes” That Snowball

A little rot repair?

An unexpected pipe reroute?

A vent that needs to be relocated?

Individually small. Together expensive.

That’s why experience matters, skilled crews can solve issues faster and more efficiently, saving you labor hours.

🏡 10. Living Adjustments During the Remodel

These aren’t contractor charges — but they hit homeowners’ wallets:

  • Eating out more
  • Temporary lodging
  • Storage pods
  • Pet boarding
  • Delayed project timelines

Many people forget to prepare for the lifestyle cost of a remodel.

⭐ The Good News? The Right Contractor Removes Most Hidden Costs.

At Stan’s, we:

  • Inspect thoroughly
  • Take detailed photos
  • Build honest, transparent estimates
  • Communicate early
  • Avoid unnecessary change orders
  • Keep you updated every step of the way

Remodeling should be exciting — not scary.

Our job is to protect your budget, your home, and your peace of mind.

💬 Ready to Remodel Smarter?

We’d love to help you plan a project without surprises.

📞 (708) 448-4100

🌐 stansroofingandsiding.com