How to Compare Builder Quotes
Most buyers think they are comparing prices when they are really comparing missing information. Use this guide to equalize your bids.
The "Equalizer" Checklist
Fill in these details for every quote. If a box is blank or vague, it's a follow-up question.
Steel Gauge & Coating
Ensure you are comparing the same thickness. 26ga G90 is the standard for longevity.
Column Spacing
Wider spacing (e.g. 10' vs 8') can reduce strength and framing options.
Truss Engineering
Check for wet-stamped engineering for your specific county snow and wind loads.
Site Prep & Concrete
Is it included? Site prep and slab thickness can swing a quote by thousands.
Your comparison worksheet
Fill one column per quote. Anything you cannot fill in is your next question for that builder — that blank is the point of the exercise. Your answers stay in this browser.
Total quoted price
A single number, with what it excludes stated in writing.
Steel gauge & coating
26ga G90 is the durability benchmark. Thinner is not wrong — but it is not the same quote.
Column spacing
Tighter spacing (8ft vs 10ft) generally means more strength and more framing options.
Truss engineering
Wet-stamped for YOUR county’s snow and wind loads — not a generic sheet.
Site prep & concrete
Included or excluded, stated explicitly, with slab thickness named.
Start date & build time
A date range they will put in the contract.
Warranty & who honors it
Separate figures for workmanship and materials, and who to call.
Red Flags to Watch For
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Download the Comparison Spreadsheet
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