Honest cost ranges for every home services project
Cost data sourced from contractor surveys, manufacturer specs, and industry primary sources. No inflated estimates, no kickback recommendations — just what U.S. homeowners actually pay in 2026.
Pick a project. Get the cost breakdown.
Every guide includes 2026 cost ranges, what drives the spread, contractor checklists, and how to spot a missing-scope quote before signing.
HVAC
Heating, Cooling, Ventilation
Furnace, AC, heat pump, boiler, water heater. Cost ranges by system type, regional rates, and what drives a $5k vs. $15k install quote.
Plumbing
Pipes, Drains, Water Lines
Repipe, sewer line, water heater, leak repair. Why PEX trenchless beats copper dig-up — and when copper still wins on a 50-year horizon.
Roofing
Roof, Gutters, Chimney
Asphalt vs. metal vs. tile, full replacement vs. repair, gutter installation, chimney inspection. What insurance covers and what it doesn't.
Energy
Solar, Insulation, Audits & Rebates
Solar panels, attic insulation, energy audits. IRA tax credits, federal rebates, payback timelines — calculated for your climate zone.
Remodeling
Kitchen, Bath, Additions, Pools
Kitchen remodel, bathroom redo, ADUs, basement finishing, pool installation, garage door upgrade. Where bidding goes wrong and how to scope right.
Restoration
Water, Mold, Foundation, Hazmat
Water damage, mold remediation, foundation repair, asbestos and lead abatement. Emergency cost ranges, insurance coverage, certified contractor sourcing.
Security
Locks, Alarms, Cameras, Doorbells
Smart locks, monitored alarms, security cameras, video doorbells. Monthly monitoring fees, install costs, DIY vs. ADT/Vivint/SimpliSafe contracts.
Cost data from primary sources, not affiliate kickbacks
We pull cost ranges from contractor surveys, manufacturer specs, IRS tax credit tables, EPA/OSHA regulations, and industry trade associations (NRCA, ACCA, IICRC, MPI). Affiliate links exist — they never change a recommendation.
Read our editorial standardsQuote-ready cost ranges
Every cost figure includes the variables behind it — material grade, labor rates, regional adjustment, scope creep flags.
Independent of contractors
We don't take payment from contractors for placement. Lead-gen referrals (when used) are clearly marked.
Updated for 2026 prices
Costs reviewed annually. Last update visible on each guide. Materials track to commodity index, labor to BLS data.
Built for homeowners
Plain-English language. No contractor jargon without translation. Every guide has a printable comparison checklist.
Find a cost guide for your project
Pick a category and get the price ranges, what drives quote variation, and a contractor checklist before you sign.
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