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Prime Buyers Guide Remodeling Contractors & Addition Builders

Finding the Best Remodeling Contractors of Alameda County

With all of the complexities of remodeling or adding on to an existing structure, it is important to find Alameda County remodeling contractors in Hayward, Oakland, Dublin and Fremont that share your vision for home remodels and room additions, as well as your budget. The Prime Buyer's Report provides listings of quality home remodeling contractors and home improvement companies as well as valuable information to help ease the burden of finding the best remodeling contractors in Alameda County for a home addition or home remodel.

Updated December 3, 2009

Top 10 Remodeling Contractors & Addition Builders in Alameda County

Pacheaco Construction
Send an email to this Company
(510) 791-2628
2860 Sanderling Dr
Fremont, CA 94555
Contractors License # B635806
   Prime Buyer's Certified  Diamond Certified  Better Business Bureau NKBA (National Kitchen & Bath Association)

Areas Served: Alameda County & Bay Area incl. Fremont CA, Oakland CA, Berkeley CA, Piedmont, ...
Services: Remodeling contractors for all home remodeling & residential remodels, room addition ...
Key Brands: Milgard, Marvin, Anderson, CertainTeed, Simonton, Velux

Kenneth R. Turnage II General Contractor, Inc.
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(925) 754-5232, Fax: (925) 754-5020
309 East 18th St.
Antioch, CA 94509
State License #787499
   Prime Buyer's Certified  Diamond Certified  Better Business Bureau NARI (National Association of The Remodeling Industry)

Areas Served: Alameda County incl Oakland CA, Berkeley CA, Hayward CA, Livermore CA, Fremont, ...
Services: remodeling contractors for all home remodeling & home repair needs including fire & ...

Ashkenas Construction
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(510) 524-3367, Cell: (510) 502-9632
77 San Mateo Rd
Berkeley, CA 94707
State Contractor's License #376227
   Prime Buyer's Certified  Diamond Certified

Areas Served: Oakland CA, Berkeley CA, Fremont CA, Hayward CA, Dublin CA, Emeryville, Piedmont, ...
Services: residential remodeling contractors for residential design & home remodeling, new ...

Black Creek Builders
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Toll free: (800) 737-7113
861 46th St #1
Oakland, CA 94608
State Contractor's License #924418
   Prime Buyer's Certified  Diamond Certified  Better Business Bureau

Areas Served: Alameda County incl. Oakland CA, Berkeley CA, Alameda, Albany CA, Ashland, Castro ...

Michael VerBrugge Construction Inc.
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(925) 631-1055
2 Ashbrook Pl
Moraga, CA 94556
State Contractor's License #681593
   Prime Buyer's Certified  Diamond Certified  Better Business Bureau Chamber of Commerce-Moraga

Areas Served: Alameda County incl. Oakland CA, Berkeley CA, Hayward CA, Livermore CA, Dublin CA, ...
Services: remodeling contractors & home remodelers for all home remodeling services, home ...
Key Brands: Benjamin Moore, Kelly-Moore, Kohler, products recommended based on client needs

Joseph Ward General Contractor
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(925) 356-8810
1646 Placer Drive
Concord, CA 94521
Contractor's Lic# 671256
   Prime Buyer's Certified  Diamond Certified Build It Green USGBC Member (U.S. Green Building Council)

Areas Served: Alameda County
Services: residential remodeling and home additions, construction design

Zayer Quality Construction
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(408) 655-4480
2495 Kingfield Way
San Jose, CA 95124
State License #647769, Class B: General Building Contractor
   Prime Buyer's Certified  Diamond Certified  Better Business Bureau

Areas Served: Berkeley, Oakland CA, Dublin CA, Hayward, Fremont, Newark CA, Pleasanton CA, Emeryville
Services: Quality home remodeling contractors for all home remodeling projects including full ...
Key Brands: Andersen Windows, Benjamin Moore Paints, Grohe Faucets, Kohler Faucets, though will ...

Artistic Designs for Living
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(415) 567-0602, (415) 606-8666
3210 Fillmore St, Suite 1
San Francisco, CA 94123

   Prime Buyer's Certified NKBA (National Kitchen & Bath Association)

Areas Served: Alameda County incl. Oakland CA, Berkeley CA, Piedmont CA, Alameda CA, Albany CA, ...
Services: home remodelers who assemble the best contractors, review bids, help select finishes,...

Millennium Enterprises Inc.
Send an email to this Company
(408) 608-4210, (408) 833-6432
14938 Camden Avenue, #10
San Jose, CA 95124
License #899021, Bonded for Public Works Projects
   Prime Buyer's Certified Chamber of Commerce-Sunnyvale

Areas Served: Alameda & Bay Area incl. Berkeley CA, Oakland CA, Livermore CA, Fremont CA, Newark ...
Services: contractors for home remodeling, home additions, new home building, commercial ...

Sigura Construction, Inc
Send an email to this Company
(408) 736-7952, (650) 969-1302
614 National Avenue
Mountain View, CA 94043
License #865155
   Prime Buyer's Certified  Diamond Certified  Better Business Bureau CACM (California Association of Community Managers)

Areas Served: Alameda incl. Oakland, Berkeley CA, Livermore, Hayward, Pleasanton CA, Fremont
Services: remodeling contractors & home remodelers for all home remodels, home additions, room ...
Key Brands: Grohe, Hansgrohe, American Standard, Kohler

Updated February 26, 2010

Finding the Best Remodeling Contractors of Alameda County 

Remodeling and addition work requires skilled contractors, who obtain the right permits and licenses. Luckily, there are many experienced home remodeling contractors in Alameda County who are the most skilled in home improvement and home additions. 

Remember, the cheap remodeling contractors in Alameda County usually aren't the good ones. Lee Shilts, owner of Hilt Construction Inc. told us, "Some consumers shop the numbers and then pick the lowest price. But it's important for consumers to be aware of what they're risking when they choose a contractor based solely on price. It's not like buying a product which is the same item no matter where you buy it. With remodeling contractors, the quality and end result depends on the contractor. You get a different product and a different service from every contractor. Most consumers who are only thinking about the numbers aren't aware they're getting a lower quality product until it's too late."

So your choice of remodelers should be based on much more than the initial price quote. John Manuel, owner of John A. Manuel Construction explains, "Quality is the most important aspect to look for in a remodeling contractor, because cheap remodelers are either cutting corners on the work, which can be dangerous, or are not carrying the overhead of being properly licensed and insured as required by law, which also puts you at risk." 

In fact, the more experienced remodeling contractors in Alameda County may be the best value. David Lorber, owner of Superior Builders & Remodelers explains, "Contractors who have been in business for a long time know their trade and have a vested interest in doing a good job to maintain their repuatation. Those contractors really care about the job they're doing and  they're there to take care of any problems or concerns that come up down the road. That way, you'll avoid serious construction defects that can cost you more later."

What else should you look for in a Alameda County remodeling contractor? Amy Hutton, director of project development at Winans Construction Inc. says, "Consumers should look for a good remodeling contractor that has the same qualities they'd look for in any service company. Expect professionalism from your contractor, in the way they answer the phone and return calls, their appearance and presentation, and in the way they treat you, your home and your budget."

In the articles below, The Prime Buyer's Report has compiled useful information about Alameda County remodeling contractors that will help you find good home improvement companies, answer your questions, and get the best solutions for your remodeling project and home additions.

Alameda County Remodeling Contractors Can Remodel Your Home and Your Perspective

Professional remodeling contractors in Alameda County are licensed in many aspects of home repair or specialized remodeling. A relatively simple way to add value to and update your home is to remodel areas where dated technology and style are most evident.

Not only are Alameda County remodeling contractors & home improvement companies able to make an existing space larger, they can also create space by adding square footage to existing rooms or simply adding rooms to your existing structure. Finishing a basement with the style of the rest of your home is a great way to get extra living space without major additions, or perhaps a wine cellar is the only thing your home needs. Whether it's a larger family room with a new fireplace or a new guest room, office, granny unit, garage, or even a complete reconstruction of an older home, use our list of qualified home remodeling companies in Alameda County.

Some Home Remodeling Contractors in Alameda County Are Better Than Others
Curt Ferson, owner of CEF Contractors explains, "You want a remodeling contractor who is dependable and guarantees their work. Not everything goes perfectly on every job, and it's pretty standard to have small things that come up after the job is finished. For instance, a door might need adjusting or there might be a small leak that you don't notice until it rains. You want a remodeling contractor who guarantees they will come back and do the minor tweaking that often needs to be done."

The Prime Buyer's Report lists these remodeling contractors in Alameda County: Pacheaco Construction, Kenneth R. Turnage II General Contractor, Inc., Michael VerBrugge Construction Inc., Ashkenas Construction, Black Creek Builders, Joseph Ward General Contractor, Zayer Quality Construction, Artistic Designs for Living, Millennium Enterprises Inc., Sigura Construction, Inc. Other home remodeling contractors in Alameda County that might still serve the Hayward, Oakland, Dublin and Fremont areas include: Fontana Construction, Pan-Geo Building & Remodeling, Jeffery Custom Remodeling, 3D Remodeling, Inc., Amarant Design & Build Center, D S I Construction, Hugo's Remodeling & Home, AKD Construction. Didn't find what you wanted with the TOP 10 Remodeling Contractors & Addition Builders in Alameda County? Then click here to see additional companies in this category.

Updated December 3, 2009
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Speaking With Remodeling Contractors in Alameda County 

What follows is a step-by-step guide to help you secure the best outcome for your remodeling job.

Step 1: Describe the Remodeling Project to Alameda County Remodelers and Home Addition Builders
Explain what type of remodeling work or home addition building is involved. Be consistent in the way that you present the information so each remodeling contractor will have an opportunity to bid the same job.

Step 2: Documented Questions and Answer Session with Good Remodeling Contractors in Alameda County
Before you create a set of serious candidates, you'll need to have a brief question and answer session with each addition builder or home remodeler. While the contractor questions you, take notes on his concerns. He may reveal some aspects of the remodel or addition that are new to you, or may just reveal his own inferior knowledge. When you interview him, take this first impression into account.

A good rapport with your contractor is essential to arrive at a finished product you are both happy with. As far as each company's ability to accommodate the specifications of your remodel or home addition, you'll need to inquire about technical ability, job history, and the details of your project. The following list can guide you through this process.

• Do the Alameda County remodeling construction companies specialize in the type of home remodel work you've described? If so, can they provide some examples of similar work near Alameda County that they've completed.

• Are the Alameda County home addition builders skilled in the kinds of home additions you're looking for? Get references and ask to see local home additions they've built.

• What is the home remodeling or home addition project timeframe from estimate to completion?

• Do the remodeling contractors and home addition builders carry workers' compensation and liability insurance?

• Will the remodeling contractors provide written estimates for home improvement remodeling projects?

• What type of warranty will the home remodeling contractors provide? Will each warranty cover all aspects of the home addition or renovation?

• Will permits be needed for the home remodeling? If so, who will be responsible for getting the remodeling permits?

• Do the remodeling companies have their employees do the home remodel or do they hire subcontractors?

• How long have the Alameda County remodeling companies been in business?

• How and when do the home remodelers and addition builders clean up after a home renovation or addition?

• Will the home improvement remodelers provide written contracts for their remodeling projects?

• What processes do the remodeling companies and addition builders go through to price the home remodels?


Step 3: Making a Preliminary Decision on Home Remodeling Companies in Alameda County
After you've interviewed some home remodeling specialists and addition builders, it's time to narrow down your choices. Review your notes and decide which answers are the most important. Based on these results, which contractor most closely matches your criteria? Which do you personally feel the most comfortable dealing with? The earlier question and answer process will have made this clearer.

Step 4: Final Research on the Best Home Addition Builders and Remodelers for You
After you've selected your prospective remodeling contractor, it's time to do some final research. What credentials does he have? Verify licensing, insurance and certifications such as Diamond Certified, the Better Business Bureau and CSLB licensing status.

Step 5: Making the Final Decision on an Addition Contractor or Remodeling Company
Now it's time to select your remodeling contractor. Call and ask any final questions and then ask for your representative to provide a signed, written and thoroughly detailed agreement.
Updated January 12, 2009
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Resources for Home Remodels and Additions in Hayward, Oakland, Dublin and Fremont 

The following is a list of key resources to research local contractors specializing in home remodels and home additions.

Associations & Licensing for Remodeling Contractors and Home Addition Builders
ABC Associated Builders and Contractors (http://www.abc.org/)
ASA American Subcontractors Association (http://www.assaonline.com/)
ASCC American Society of Concrete Contractors (http://www.ascconline.org/)
BBB Better Business Bureau (www.bbb.com)
CBIA California Building Industry Association (http://www.cbia.org/)
CSLB Contractors State License Board (http://www.cslb.ca.gov/)
DCA California Department of Consumer Affairs (www.dca.ca.gov)
Diamond Certified (www.diamondcertified.org)
HBANC Home Builders Association of Northern California (http://www.hbanc.org/)
MCAA Mechanical Contractors Association of America (http://www.mcaa.org/)
NAHB National Association of Home Builders (http://www.nahb.org/)
NARI National Association of the Remodeling Industry (http://www.nari.org/)
NCBE North Coast Builders Exchange (http://www.ncbeonline.com/
NSCA National Systems Contractors Association (http://www.nsca.org/)
NUCA National Utility Contractors Association (http://www.nuca.com/)

Media & Web Resources for Alameda County Remodelers and Home Addition Builders
Architectural Designs
Architectural Digest
Austin Design Guide
Better Homes & Gardens
Blueprint Magazine
Building Design and Construction
California Home & Design
CONTRACTOR Magazine
Dwell
Environmental Design and Construction Magazine
Fine Homebuilding
Home
Homebuilding & Renovating Magazine
Home & Design
HOUSE Magazine
Luxury Home
New Old House
Old House Journal
Smart Homeowner
This Old House
Western Interiors and Design

http://www.askthebuilder.com/
http://www.bhg.com/
http://www.bobvila.com/
http://www.doityourself.com/
http://www.energystar.gov/
http://www.homedepot.com/
http://www.hometime.com/
http://www.hometips.com/
http://www.lowes.com/

If you are looking for the best home addition builders or remodelers in Hayward, Oakland, Dublin and Fremont, The Prime Buyer's Report provides information for the top 10 remodeling contractors in Alameda County within the following zip codes:

94501, 94502, 94536, 94537, 94538, 94539, 94540, 94541, 94542, 94543, 94544, 94545, 94546, 94550, 94551, 94552, 94555, 94557, 94560, 94566, 94568, 94577, 94578, 94579, 94580, 94586, 94587, 94588, 94601, 94602, 94603, 94604, 94605, 94606, 94607, 94608, 94609, 94610, 94611, 94612, 94613, 94614, 94615, 94617, 94618, 94619, 94620, 94621, 94623, 94624, 94661, 94662, 94701, 94702, 94703, 94704, 94705, 94706, 94707, 94708, 94709, 94710 and 94712

The Prime Buyer's Report provides information for the top 10 remodeling contractors and home addition contractors in Alameda County within the following cities:

Alameda, Albany, Ashland, Berkeley, Castro Valley, Dublin, Emeryville, Fremont, Hayward, Komandorski Village, Livermore, Mount Eden, Newark, Oakland, Piedmont, Pleasanton, Russell City, San Leandro, San Lorenzo, Sunol and Union City

 

 

Remodeling Contractors Oakland Area

County

City-Area

City

Home Improvement Companies Found

Alameda

Oakland

Alameda CA

6

Alameda

Oakland

Albany CA

2

Alameda

Oakland

Berkeley CA

25

Alameda

Oakland

Canyon CA

1

Alameda

Oakland

Emeryville CA

4

Alameda

Oakland

Oakland CA

63

Alameda

Oakland

Piedmont CA

3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Remodeling Contractors Hayward Area

City-Area

City

Home Improvement Companies Found

Hayward

Ashland CA

* see San Lorenzo CA

Hayward

Castro Valley CA

15

Hayward

Hayward CA

15

Hayward

Mt Eden CA

0

Hayward

Russell City CA

0

Hayward

San Leandro CA

26

Hayward

San Lorenzo CA

1

 

 

Remodeling Contractors Fremont Area

City-Area

City

Home Improvement Companies Found

Fremont

Fremont CA

43

Fremont

Newark CA

13

Fremont

Sunol CA

0

Fremont

Union City

6

 

 

Remodeling Contractors Dublin CA Area

City-Area

City

Home Improvement Companies Found

Dublin

Dublin CA

12

Dublin

Komandorski Village CA

0

Dublin

Livermore CA

32

Dublin

Pleasanton CA

21

Updated January 12, 2009
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Top 10 Tips for Choosing Remodeling Contractors and Home Addition Builders in Alameda County 

Don't Rush in Choosing Your Remodeling Contractor or Home Addition Builder.
Don't hire the first remodeling and addition contractor you manage to contact. If you take some time initially to properly outline your job and carefully match a qualified remodeler in Hayward, Oakland, Dublin and Fremont, you're more likely to get what you wanted in the first place.

Compose a Description of the Home Remodel or Addition.
Depending on the complexity of the job, you can better discern the more capable contractors if you personally write down your expectations and any remodeling or addition specifics prior to contacting any prospects. Since each addition contractor and remodeler will see the same description, you can be sure that you are comparing responses to your project on a fair and equal basis. Then you can better judge who gives you the best responses to your consistent description.

Get Three Separate Estimates from Oakland CA Home Remodelers.
You should get a few separate estimates for your addition/remodel. But remember, price should not be your only determining factor. Getting several estimates will help you measure which remodeling contractor is the most trustworthy, accurate and experienced. It also helps to have several examples to compare thoroughness and general ability.

Get Everything in Writing from Addition Builders in Alameda County.
Like they say, "better safe than sorry." Getting everything in writing will prevent confusion down the line during your home renovation or remodel. For the purposes of documentation, insist that your addition builder or remodeling contractor provide you with a written description of the work, pricing, insurance information, and a timeframe for completion.

Do Your Homework Before You Sign an Agreement with a Remodeling Construction Company.
Before you officially agree to any renovation plans with Alameda County remodelers, be sure to check licensing, workers' compensation and liability insurances, as well as any other relevant credentials.

Choose Certified Renovation Companies in the Oakland Area.
Some remodeling and addition contractors have exhibited a greater dedication to the satisfaction of their clients and have been met with the public response they deserve. In Hayward, Oakland, Dublin and Fremont and the greater Alameda County area, remodeling contractors that have earned Diamond Certified status or have been featured positively in Consumer Reports magazine are more likely to put forth the extra effort.

Maintain Open Communication During the Remodel or Renovation.
This can be the most overlooked skill with addition contractors and remodelers. But in order to maintain a successful partnership, both parties must make a concerted effort to keep one another informed during the home renovations. Don't jump to conclusions, and call and ask when you have the slightest doubt about how a home remodel is going. There may be a reasonable explanation for changes or delays. There may be decisions that you can make that will help smooth what can be a difficult process.

Agree in Advance to do a Walk-Through Upon Completion of the Remodel or Home Addition.
After the job is completed, return to the agreement you signed before work commenced. Walk through your project area with the most senior remodeling contractor available and compare the results to the details stipulated in the agreement. Bring up any work that differentiates from what has been agreed upon.

Know Your Rights when Working with Alameda County Remodelers or Addition Builders.
Consumers do have some special rights depending on where they live. You're dealing with remodeling contractors in Alameda County, so you can learn about applicable laws at the California's Department of Consumer Affairs.

Make Sure Your Home Addition Contractor Asks the Right Questions.
If your remodeling professional seems indifferent, disengaged or glosses over key issues, don't hire him! You're not the only one that should be asking questions. If he's worth his salt, he will go to the areas involved and look and ask. If not, he's not the right addition builder or remodeling contractor for you.
Updated January 12, 2009
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Remodeling Contractors in Alameda County Use Many Material Brands 

Remodeling contractors and home addition builders in Alameda County can provide many popular brands of home and business products. The following is a partial list of the brands that can be supplied locally: Nevamar, Corian, CHI Overhead Door, Owens Corning, Grohe, Master Halco, Heat-N-Glo, Pergo, Wilsonart, Hartco, Tyvek (Dupont), Lennox, Thermador, Wausau Tile, Hanson Roof Tiles, Plops, US Gypsum.
Updated January 12, 2009
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Diamond Certified