Our Methodology

Data Sources

Our cost data is compiled from multiple sources including industry surveys, contractor rate studies, publicly available project data, government resources, and real estate market reports. We cross-reference multiple sources to ensure accuracy.

City Cost Index

Each city has a cost index relative to the national average (1.0). This index reflects local variations in labour rates, material costs, demand for trades, and cost of living. For example, a city with an index of 1.15 means costs are approximately 15% above the national average.

Price Ranges

We show three price points for each service: Budget (basic materials and finishes), Average (mid-range, most common choice), and Premium (high-end materials and complex work). Most homeowners fall in the average range.

Updates

We review and update our data at least annually. Material costs and labour rates can change due to supply chain conditions, inflation, and seasonal demand. The date shown on each page indicates when that data was last reviewed.