Construction

Construction encompasses everything from building new structures to major home additions and renovations that transform your living space. Whether you're planning a kitchen expansion, adding a second story, or tackling foundation work, these projects require careful planning, permits, and skilled labor. From framing to finishing, we'll help you find the right pros and resources to bring your vision to life.

Related to Construction

Construction Articles and Advice
Kathryn Pomroy  •  Apr 22, 2026
How to Boost Your Construction Profit Margin
If the profit margin for your construction company is low, you’re not alone. Learn how to calculate and increase your profit margin today to keep your company thriving in both good times and bad.
Kathryn Pomroy  •  Apr 16, 2026
Construction Overhead and Profit: How to Stay on Track With Costs
Ready to learn how to calculate construction overhead and profit? Hitting profit goals takes keeping costs down and tracking overhead. That means looking at direct and indirect costs and adjusting them as you estimate jobs. Keep reading for more.
Ginny Bartolone  •  Apr 10, 2026
What Is the Penalty for Building Your Home Project Without a Permit?
So, you've broken ground without getting the green light—what is the penalty for building without a permit? Here's why you need a permit ASAP.
Gemma Johnstone  •  Apr 10, 2026
What Homeowners Can Do When a Contractor Does a Poor Job
What should you do when a contractor does poor work? Your best defense is documentation. Here's how to fight back and hopefully turn your project around.
Stephanie Mickelson  •  Apr 10, 2026
Cinder Block Calculator: How Many Cinder Blocks Do I Need?
How many cinder blocks do I need? This calculator will help you estimate what you’ll need to complete your project with ease.
Melissa Graham  •  Apr 10, 2026
What Is EIFS? Understand the Pros and Cons
Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems, or EIFS, is a stucco look-a-like but is actually very different. It can be hard to clean and expensive to install, but EIFS is a durable, energy-efficient, and attractive option to spruce up any home.
Taylor Freitas  •  Apr 10, 2026
7 Types of Bricks and When to Use Them in Masonry Projects
Burnt clay bricks are the most popular option in modern construction, but there are others to consider as well. Here’s a look at seven common types of bricks.
Rachel Hoffman  •  Apr 10, 2026
8 Types of Concrete Anchors: Which Is Right for Your Project?
Installing fixtures into concrete can be complicated. Learn about different types of concrete anchors and how to choose the best one for your needs.
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Common Construction Questions

In most cases, a general contractor is well worth the investment. The cost of hiring a general contractor adds about 20% to your total project cost, but they carry out a few key responsibilities that you would otherwise have to do yourself or find a separate contractor for:

  • Choosing reliable contractors for each portion of the project

  • Coordinating the work

  • Accurately estimating waste and project timelines

  • Pulling or coordinating permits for each portion of the work

  • Working with individual workers 

  • Returning unused materials after the job is complete

  • Paying individual contractors

In most states and municipalities, general contractors must be licensed to complete work on your home. You should always work with a licensed general contractor because the work they complete is top-notch and they tend to be less expensive than a general contractor that subcontracts the work and upcharges each line item. You can use Angi’s contractor licensing tool to confirm that a general contractor holds the necessary licenses in your area.

One of the most common reasons permits get denied is that the proposed project would create unsafe conditions. That could mean the plans for your project aren’t safe or up to code or that they could contaminate local water sources. Your building department can also deny permits if the project violates building codes or zoning regulations or doesn’t meet local energy efficiency requirements.

Many providers assist with obtaining necessary permits. Confirm with your contractor.

Structural engineers draw structural plans, which include detailed drawings of the structural components of a home only. Complete house plans will require additional work from an architect or draftsperson, whose drawings will take the structural drawings into account. They’ll also include more details about the finishing materials and layout of a home, including everything from roofing and flooring materials to the position of furniture, light fixtures, switches, and plumbing fixtures.