Our Methodology
CostCheck is an independent cost comparison service. We are not a contractor marketplace, lead generation platform, or advertising network for home service providers.
How we collect data
We collect published cost estimates from established home-improvement resources, editorial publications, and industry data providers. Each source is attributed with a direct link to the original publication.
We do not republish substantial portions of third-party content. We store normalized factual observations (price ranges, included scope, methodology notes) with full attribution.
How we compare estimates
Published estimates often appear contradictory because they measure different things. Rather than averaging incomparable numbers, we:
- Identify what each source includes and excludes (labor, materials, permits, disposal, venting)
- Note the geographic scope (national, regional, local)
- Describe the data collection methodology (homeowner surveys, contractor data, editorial research)
- Assess the comparability of each estimate to a user's specific situation
Evidence labeling
Every claim on CostCheck is labeled with one of three evidence levels:
- Verified: Directly supported by a cited source.
- Interpretation: Our reasoned explanation of the available evidence.
- Unknown: Information that cannot be established from available sources.
What we do not do
- We do not invent prices or fill gaps with AI-generated estimates
- We do not present model-generated numbers as measured prices
- We do not average unrelated estimates
- We do not create location pages with generic, substituted copy
- We do not generate contractor rankings or paid placement
Homeowner-submitted data
Homeowners can voluntarily submit real quotes and completed project costs. All submissions are reviewed before inclusion in aggregated benchmarks. Individual quotes are never publicly displayed. We only publish aggregate statistics when we have sufficient verified data points to be meaningful.
Our sources
HomeAdvisor (Angi)
aggregator
Aggregates cost data from homeowner-reported projects and contractor estimates. Ranges represent middle 50% of reported costs.
HomeGuide
aggregator
Collects pricing from contractors and homeowner surveys. Estimates are national averages unless specified.
Fixr
aggregator
Aggregates from contractors, material suppliers, and industry data. Uses a standardized cost modeling methodology.
Forbes Home
editorial
Editorial research combining contractor interviews, aggregator data, and manufacturer pricing.
Bob Vila
editorial
Editorial estimates based on contractor interviews, manufacturer data, and regional cost analysis.
This Old House
editorial
Expert-reviewed estimates from contractors and industry professionals.
The Home Depot
manufacturer
Published retail prices for equipment. Installation costs based on standard pricing through their installation services.
Lowe's
manufacturer
Published retail prices for equipment. Installation pricing through their professional installer network.
Updates
We verify source data periodically and note the last verification date on each estimate. Sources may update their pages independently. If you notice an outdated or incorrect estimate, please let us know.
Last updated: October 2026