Contractor Budget Kit
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REMODELING

Remodeling Budget Calculator

Build a preliminary budget for a small remodel with labor, materials, fixtures and a contingency reserve.

JOB INPUTS

Enter your numbers

Loading saved values

Direct labor for the remodel

$
Direct labor for the remodel

Raw materials for the project

$
Raw materials for the project

Cabinets, fixtures and finishing items

$
Cabinets, fixtures and finishing items

Reserve for surprises, % of subtotal

%
Reserve for surprises, % of subtotal

Profit on the project, % of subtotal + contingency

%
Profit on the project, % of subtotal + contingency
Results update automatically
CALCULATED RESULTUSD
Preliminary budget$19,481.00
Subtotal$15,400.00
Contingency$1,540.00
Profit$2,541.00
Profit margin13.04%
FORMULA USED$15,400.00 + 10.0% + 15.0% = $19,481.00

HOW TO USE IT

How to use the Remodeling Budget Calculator

  1. 1

    Enter labor, materials and fixtures.

  2. 2

    Add a contingency percentage for surprises.

  3. 3

    Set the profit percentage you want to earn.

  4. 4

    Review the subtotal, reserves and final budget.

THE MATH

Remodeling budget formula

Budget = subtotal × (1 + contingency%) × (1 + profit%)

The three direct costs form a subtotal. Contingency cushions surprises, and profit is calculated after that reserve.

PRACTICAL EXAMPLE

A kitchen refresher

$8,000 labor + $5,200 materials + $2,200 fixtures equals a $15,400 subtotal. With 10% contingency and 15% profit, the budget is about $19,480.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

What is a contingency reserve?

It is a budget buffer for unexpected conditions found during demolition or installation, such as wiring, plumbing or rot.

Is this a final quote?

No, it is a preliminary planning budget. A detailed takeoff based on the final scope produces the real quote.