The purpose of this website is to give you good information on remodeling and/or renovating a space in your home or business.

Although most of the information relates to existing structures, it also applies to new construction. These principles are sound for any project, so that it can stay on budget and result in matching or exceeding your expectations. Use these tips to evaluate if the contractor you are thinking of using for a project matches your needs, and is capable of performing the job without going over the agreed upon budget.

In multiple surveys, the main concern of finding a contractor is cost overruns. If the accepted bid is relied upon as the maximum of the budget and overruns exceed the budget by a large amount, some homeowners find themselves in deep financial trouble. There are ways to avoid this.

Most cost overruns come from these causes.

• Unanticipated and Hidden structural issues.
  Rot, insect damage, and poor original construction that will not pass current code are all major budget busters. The contractor should have anticipated that these issues might be a problem. While unanticipated issues are no one’s fault, the potential for additional expense should have been pointed out prior to the start of the project. The worst surprises, are the one’s no one saw coming. It’s a good idea to leave extra room in your budget for this, and - if all goes well - the money can be used later for better-quality lighting and trim.
• "I changed my mind."
  If you don't like the paint color in a room, it is not a big deal. If you don't like how the space works after adding a new wall, it is a big deal. If you are not using an architect to design the space, you need someone who will walk through the renovation and help you visualize the new space.
• The Devil is in the Details!
  Before accepting a bid, compare the quality of the materials to be used. Many contractors use the material list as a way to pad the bid, and get their profit.

Peachtree Builders is here to help! As you peruse our website, we trust that you will get an understanding of our approach to your project and feel confident in our abilities.

This summer, Peachtree Builders (along with other local Vermont contractors) helped on a treehouse build with the crew from the Animal Planet show Treehouse Masters. Grahame and Dakota had a great time working on this unique project. Enjoy these process and finished photos of the treehouse! The Treehouse Master episode aired October 12 on Animal Planet. Watch full episode at AnimalPlanet.com.

Pete has spread the treehouse bug to a longtime friend and show producer who's hanging up his TV hat to open a treehouse B&B. The classic A-frame structure will have all the amenities and a waterfall pouring from a wraparound deck to the pond below.