Chapter 1: Why Accurate Estimates Matter
After more than 35 years in the residential construction industry—from new builds to high-end remodels—I can tell you this: the success of any project begins with the estimate. Homeowners deserve more than a rough guess or a number pulled out of thin air. They deserve accuracy, transparency, and the confidence that comes from knowing exactly what they are investing in.
More Than a Dollar Amount
An estimate is more than a price tag. It’s the foundation of the entire remodeling experience. Done right, it’s a roadmap that accounts for demolition, preparation, materials, labor, and even the small finishing touches that make a project custom to your family. Too many contractors rely on shortcuts—most commonly “square-foot pricing.” The problem with that method is simple: two bathrooms of the exact same size can end up costing completely different amounts depending on tile choice, fixtures, cabinetry, plumbing layouts, and finishes. A vague estimate doesn’t respect the homeowner or the craftsmanship.
At Trends Kitchen & Bathroom Specialists, I don’t cut corners. Every proposal I give is based on your selections, your design, and your priorities. That’s why our estimates don’t just get close—they’re dead on.
Why Accuracy Matters
Remodeling is one of the most personal investments you can make. You’re not just upgrading a bathroom or kitchen—you’re improving your quality of life, increasing your home’s value, and creating spaces you’ll use every single day. With that much at stake, guessing isn’t good enough.
That’s why my process ensures every client gets an estimate that is:
- Accurate – built from real-world selections, not formulas.
- Transparent – showing exactly what’s included, with no mystery charges.
- Realistic – factoring in the entire process from tear-out to the last brush of paint.
- Comprehensive – accounting for details that most contractors don’t even think about.
Tile, Layouts, and Details That Matter
I’ll be the first to admit—I’m obsessed with tile. Tile is man-made, which means no two pieces are ever perfectly identical. That variation is part of the beauty, but it takes a professional eye to turn that imperfection into a seamless, custom layout.
When I design a space, it’s not just about setting tile. It’s about creating a layout that makes sense. Every line, every grout joint, every transition is carefully considered. And the same attention to detail applies everywhere—from the height of a shower fixture to the position of a bench, towel bar, or robe hook. These aren’t afterthoughts—they’re the finishing touches that affect how you use your bathroom every single day.
That’s why I tell my clients: I’m not just giving you an estimate, I’m giving you a vision of your finished project. One that’s customized to your home, your lifestyle, and your expectations.
Exceeding Expectations
At the end of the day, anyone can give you a number. What sets me apart is that my estimates are built on decades of experience, an obsession with detail, and a commitment to exceed every client’s expectations. When you hire Trends Kitchen & Bathroom Specialists, you’re not just hiring a remodeler—you’re hiring an expert who knows what truly matters in the end.
— Damon Fowler
Owner, Trends Kitchen & Bathroom Specialists