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Old 09-21-2011, 11:05 AM
 
Location: Indianapolis, IN
631 posts, read 1,093,860 times
Reputation: 526

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In Chicago. Just a basic 2.5, w/concrete slab, standard electric...no extras. Rough estimates. Recommendations welcomed also.

Thanks!
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Old 09-22-2011, 05:33 AM
 
Location: Chicago
146 posts, read 468,351 times
Reputation: 82
I don't have the exact cost but here are somethings to consider when getting quotes. Regarding the concrete pad, pay extra for the six bag concrete mix for the pad.
Here is a link that explains in detail what six bag mix details What is 5 bag mix, 6 bag mix, 3000 PSI, 3500 PSI, 4000 PSI | ChicagolandConcrete.com______312.473.POUR

Without the six bag mix, in about 2-3 years the concrete surface will start flaking off. This is called spalling.

The other options you have to consider is siding and roofing material. The cheapest option for siding is to use fiberboard siding which looks initially nice but if not cared for will warp and expand. I would look to using some type of material that is care free and will not need painting (eg vinyl or fiber cement siding)

Also make sure all contractors carry both liability and Workman's Comp insurance. Ask for a certificate of insurance. Liability insurance is relatively affordable for the contractor . Workman's comp is expensive and many small contractors don't carry it. What this means if one of the contractor or his employees get injured while working at your home, you could end up footing the medical and legal bills.

I would recommend calling some garage builders to get prices on specific plans. Then I would call concrete contractors, electricians, carpenters and garage door installers and get separate quotes for the same design. I have had great success using Angie's list to get reputable contractors. If you decide to go with individual contractors make sure that their contract stipulates that the each contractor will be pulling the required permit. Don't let them start doing any work until you have permits to hang in your home's window.

You don't want to find out after you build it that the city never received a permit application and they want the garage removed or you to pay a huge fine.
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Old 09-22-2011, 06:59 AM
 
Location: Indianapolis, IN
631 posts, read 1,093,860 times
Reputation: 526
Thanks Mikeg453! This info really helps when it comes to the indie. contractors. Didn't realize SO much was involved with dealing with them. This one guy I found, among other things, wanted ME to get the permit for him to do the work! Geeez! The info on the different materials helped, too. I'm handling this from a distance, so to simplify things, looks like I'll end up going with an established company like Danley's or somebody like that. (I know it will cost more, but it's impossible for me to oversee everything from a distance dealing with a contractor.)

That really helped, thanks!
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Old 09-22-2011, 09:19 PM
 
Location: Chicago
146 posts, read 468,351 times
Reputation: 82
Good luck!
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