Home improvement information · free to read
Know the plan before the first nail.
Plain-language guides to estimates, permits, scope and budget, so a home project reads like a drawing instead of a mystery. No quotes. No contractor referrals. No sales calls.
- Information only
- Two optional consent boxes
- Never shared with contractors
FIG. 1 — 1 scope · 2 permits · 3 budget
A-01Phases
Five phases, one page each.
- 01IdeaDecide what you want to change and why. Collect photos and notes.
- 02PlanWrite the scope, set a budget with a cushion, and check what permits apply.
- 03EstimatesGather written estimates for the same scope and compare them line by line.
- 04BuildKeep payments tied to completed stages, and keep every document.
- 05MaintainFinish with a walk-through, a punch list and a folder of paperwork.
A-02Drawing index
The guides, numbered like a set of plans.
| No. | Title | Topic | Read |
|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | Reading a contractor estimateA plain-language walk through the parts of a written contractor estimate: scope, materials, labor, allowances, exclusions and payment terms. | Estimates | 5 min |
| 02 | Permits and inspectionsA general overview of why many home projects need permits and inspections, how the process usually works, and who to ask in your area. | Permits | 4 min |
| 03 | A scope-of-work checklist for any home projectA reusable checklist for writing down what a home project includes, from demolition and materials to cleanup, schedule and sign-off. | Scope | 4 min |
| 04 | Renovation budgetsA general guide to building a realistic home project budget, including soft costs, allowances and a contingency for surprises. | Budget | 5 min |
| 05 | Contractor red flags and how to check before you signCommon warning signs in home-improvement offers, such as pressure, big upfront payments and missing licenses, and public sources for checking a business. | Caution | 4 min |
A-03General notes
What Rafterio is, and is not.
Notes: it is
- A free home improvement information website.
- Plain-language guides, no jargon.
- Written so you can ask better questions.
- Optional emails and texts, never required.
Notes: it is not
- A contractor, remodeler, lender, or marketplace.
- A source of quotes or price estimates.
- A way to be matched or referred to anyone.
- A seller of your details to anyone.
A-09Next step
Get the plan in your inbox.
Free guides on estimates, permits, scope and budget. No quotes, no contractors calling, no sharing.