Top 10 General Contractors in Altoona, PA

Porch Pro Headshot Mihalko's General Contracting
General Contractors
Serves Altoona, Pennsylvania
(108)
Mihalko's General Contracting is a family owned home remodeling contractor located in Altoona, Johnstown, Latrobe, Somerset, and State College. We pride ourselves on all home renovations including, kitchen renovation, bathroom remodeling, roofing, siding, window installation and custom design work. ...Read more about Mihalko's General Contracting
Mihalko's General Contracting is a family owned home remodeling contractor located in Altoona, Johnstown, Latrobe, Somerset, and State College. We pride ourselves on all home renovations including, kitchen renovation, bathroom remodeling, roofing, siding, window installation and custom design work. ...Read more about Mihalko's General Contracting
Porch Pro Headshot MV CONSTRUCTION
General Contractors
Serves Altoona, Pennsylvania
(21)
"I hired MV Construction to build a new deck on my house. They tore off the old one, removed all old materials. Installed a 25'x12' treated deck with 2 sets of steps and great banister design at beginning of summer. Very happy with the work they did and my new deck. Crew was very respectful of my f...Read more about MV CONSTRUCTION
"I hired MV Construction to build a new deck on my house. They tore off the old one, removed all old materials. Installed a 25'x12' treated deck with 2 sets of steps and great banister design at beginning of summer. Very happy with the work they did and my new deck. Crew was very respectful of my f...Read more about MV CONSTRUCTION
Porch Pro Headshot Berkeley Properties Online LLC
General Contractors
Serves Altoona, Pennsylvania
Berkeley Properties Online, LLC is a general contracting company Based in Berkeley Springs, West Virginia. With over seven years of experience, we specialize in historic, residential, and commercial renovations. we are licensed in: West Virginia, Maryland and DC. Our goal is to help our clients cre...Read more about Berkeley Properties Online LLC
Berkeley Properties Online, LLC is a general contracting company Based in Berkeley Springs, West Virginia. With over seven years of experience, we specialize in historic, residential, and commercial renovations. we are licensed in: West Virginia, Maryland and DC. Our goal is to help our clients cre...Read more about Berkeley Properties Online LLC
Porch Pro Headshot Burke Building & Remodeling LLC
General Contractors
Serves Altoona, Pennsylvania
(7)
Given a stellar 5-star rating from previous clients, Burke Building & Remodeling LLC is a top-notch choice for window replacement in the Cresaptown, MD area.
Given a stellar 5-star rating from previous clients, Burke Building & Remodeling LLC is a top-notch choice for window replacement in the Cresaptown, MD area.
Porch Pro Headshot Hometown Waterproofing Llc.
General Contractors
Serves Altoona, Pennsylvania
Hometown strives to provide a permanent solution to your foundation repair needs. We offer lifetime/transferrable warranties on our waterproofing system. We also do foundation repair and mold testing. Hometown offers free inspections and detailed estimates.
Hometown strives to provide a permanent solution to your foundation repair needs. We offer lifetime/transferrable warranties on our waterproofing system. We also do foundation repair and mold testing. Hometown offers free inspections and detailed estimates.
Porch Pro Headshot B3 Contracting
General Contractors
Serves Altoona, Pennsylvania
Our team, at B3 Contracting, was founded by a group of highly skilled contractors with a common commitment to deliver high quality work. Our superior customer experience has allowed us to forge a cohesive, customer centric company. At B3, we specialize in delivering beautiful interior and exterior r...Read more about B3 Contracting
Our team, at B3 Contracting, was founded by a group of highly skilled contractors with a common commitment to deliver high quality work. Our superior customer experience has allowed us to forge a cohesive, customer centric company. At B3, we specialize in delivering beautiful interior and exterior r...Read more about B3 Contracting
Porch Pro Headshot Mdg Construction
General Contractors
Serves Altoona, Pennsylvania
Being the Owner of MDG Construction is a constant pleasure because of serving Home and Business Owners like you. At MDG Construction, we take pride in the detail of our work. If you're looking for a high quality and personal service Contractor, you've come to the right place. At MDG Construction we'...Read more about Mdg Construction
Being the Owner of MDG Construction is a constant pleasure because of serving Home and Business Owners like you. At MDG Construction, we take pride in the detail of our work. If you're looking for a high quality and personal service Contractor, you've come to the right place. At MDG Construction we'...Read more about Mdg Construction
Porch Pro Headshot Cook's Painting & Renovation Inc
General Contractors
Serves Altoona, Pennsylvania
Is your home in Westernport, MD and in need of a makeover? Contact Cook's Painting & Renovation about their painting services to get started.
Is your home in Westernport, MD and in need of a makeover? Contact Cook's Painting & Renovation about their painting services to get started.
Porch Pro Headshot Swope Tree Care & Construction
General Contractors
Serves Altoona, Pennsylvania
Based in Saxton, Swope Tree Care & Construction.. general construction,tree removal and trimming,new home construction/remodel.
Based in Saxton, Swope Tree Care & Construction.. general construction,tree removal and trimming,new home construction/remodel.
Porch Pro Headshot Mountain-Valley Services LLC
General Contractors
Serves Altoona, Pennsylvania
Faced with a vinyl siding challenge? Give the experts at Mountain-Valley Services LLC in Bowmans Addition, MD a call.
Faced with a vinyl siding challenge? Give the experts at Mountain-Valley Services LLC in Bowmans Addition, MD a call.

Frequently asked questions about general contractors

A general contractor oversees building and remodeling projects from start to finish. Their main priority is making sure that a project progresses according to the schedule, is on budget, and that all work is done properly. All other contractors and workers answer to the general contractor and they answer to the client who hired them.

Start by getting bids from different contractors. Bids lay out your expected cost and the extent of the project, including materials, labor, and when the project will be done. If you have a local contractor in mind, feel free to work with them in negotiating the terms of a bid, rather than putting out a competitive bid request. Terms typically outline payment installments, an expected timeline for milestones, and the expected outcome at each phase of the project.

Once you've signed the contract with the general contractor, they bring in the workers and begin on the project. Throughout the course of the project, the general contractor manages all workers and subcontractors. General contractors generally own or work for a company that handles one or two aspects of building and remodeling. Very few do framing, finishing, electrical, concrete, plumbing, and landscaping on their own. So, it's quite common for general contractors to outsource work from other companies. The general contractor handles the hiring of these subcontractors, as well as paying them and their own workers. You only have to worry about paying the general contractor.

Hiring multiple subcontractors for a job might seem more economical, but it would put much of the decision-making on you. What you might save in money may be offset by the amount of time and mental energy you'd have to put into the project. An experienced general contractor knows the ins and outs of the construction business. They understand how to structure a project and work with subcontractors to get projects completed safely, and on schedule. This leaves the day-to-day decisions to someone with more experience.

The licensing rules in some states require hiring a general contractor for certain projects. If the state doesn't require a general contractor in your case, it makes good sense to hire a licensed and insured local contractor.

General contractors live by their reputation. They work hard to build trust with their clients and honor that trust through their management of construction projects. Even if they never lift a hammer during the course of a job, they feel a great sense of ownership of the whole operation.

General contractors usually have a vast knowledge of local building codes. Their understanding of construction and people management helps all subcontractors to work together. They see how each piece fits together to make a completed project. Subcontractors may take a narrow view of their role, which could cause problems for other subcontractors working on the next step. General contractors work closely with their crews, subcontractors, and you to prevent costly miscommunication.

Whether you're hiring a home contractor to build your dream house or searching "general contractors in my area" to oversee a remodel project, you'll be working closely with whomever you choose.

When you get underway with your contractor, you'll begin by sorting out every possible detail. Before work begins, the contractor will work out a project plan with you. The project plan may include determining fixtures, finishes, and furnishings — to avoid any cost gaps in the initial bid. The more specific you are, the more realistic and accurate the bid will be.

Make sure it’s OK to call or text your contractor throughout the day. Even if they aren't always available, they should provide you with contact information for a lead person or someone else you can discuss the project with. When possible, visit the job site. This gives the contractor or lead the opportunity to bring up any issues and ask any questions about specifics that weren't covered in the project plan.

It's also helpful to keep a project journal. Write down product order numbers. Jot down questions and ideas, and note delivery dates. This can make it easier to sort out any disputes that may arise later. Track any changes to the initial project plan in writing. If unforeseen changes occur, make sure to get a bid change in writing.

Other helpful tips:

  • Check on work as it progresses
  • Pay only for completed work
  • Be a fair customer by paying bills on time, responding quickly to questions, and treating your contractor and their workers fairly
  • Know the workers’ names, and make sure they have what they need
  • Establishing a good working relationship with your contractor from the beginning will lead to a more successful project

Some general contractors charge a flat fee. Most charge a markup, which is a percentage of the overall completed project cost. The markup amount covers their overhead, including advertising, insurance, office expenses, and their own salary. The contractor should outline all payments and expenses in the contract at the outset.

Contractors typically ask for a percentage of the total project cost upfront. This initial fee covers the cost of getting the project started, provides workers with their wages for the first phase of the construction, and helps serve as a deposit for the needed materials and supplies. Fifteen percent is a fair and decent initial payment for getting a project started. Most states cap this initial fee at 33%, and a good contractor should have good enough credit to cover remaining up-front costs.

After each phase or "milestone" gets completed, your contract will likely require you to pay more money toward the project. These installments are an expected part of the construction process to cover wages, additional supplies, and materials the contractor may need to continue. Even the most well-off contractor would quickly run out of money to move forward if they didn't include installment payments into their contracts.

A big project is a costly endeavor and a long-term investment. When choosing a general contractor, it makes sense to look beyond just the contractor’s fee. Be sure to hire someone that can provide proof of licensing, insurance, and references. Take the time to look into their track record. A good general contractor will leave a trail of stellar online reviews, and when you talk to former clients, they'll have only good things to say. When you enter a project with a contractor, you need a pro you trust with your home, so it’s wise to do your homework ahead of time to ensure a successful outcome.

Begin with a plan that lays out the scope of the remodeling work you want done. By the time you hire a contractor, you should have decided on materials, fixtures, appliances, and other items. If you've decided on any changes to the floor plan, be sure to add the specifics to your plan. The more details, the better. Add everything you can think of, down to the brass pulls for the kitchen cupboards.

Once you have this plan, start talking to contractors to get estimates and formal bids. Ask around for local contractor recommendations at your local hardware store, or go online and read client reviews. Good contractors tend to be very busy, so expect a waiting period from the time you contact them to the time they can start on the project. Be sure to seek out a contractor with experience in the job you need done. If you need a patio installed, scroll past them if they specialize in kitchens and baths.

When speaking to the contractor, make sure you're clear on which parts of the project the contractor will handle and which will go to a subcontractor. Ask for proof of licensing, insurance, and any relevant subcontractors' licenses. Check contractor credentials with your local Better Business Bureau.

Only sign a detailed contract, and be sure you understand every detail of the contract before signing. Be sure to get the proper permits for your project. A good contractor will be able to talk you through getting permits. In some places, contractors are able to get the permits themselves. Check in with the contractor regularly during the course of the project to avoid errors and miscommunication.

Searching online for "good general contractors near me" or getting referrals from a hardware or home improvement store is a first step to hiring a contractor. Take certain precautions before hiring a contractor to prevent costly headaches later on.

Begin by working with a professional architect or designer who's able to provide all the information a contractor will need. A designer or architect can also create the necessary drawings to submit for obtaining a permit. Include details like finishes, fixtures, plumbing work, electrical installations, and possible millwork.

Come up with a specifications list in advance. Write down the details of every element you want placed into the project, from the front door to the floor tiles that you want. Calculate to make sure all your selections fall within your budget and meet your personal requirements.

Make sure your contractor has the proper licensing and insurance. Check out a potential contractor’s previous work. They should be able to offer examples. When you interview contractors, remember that you'll spend a lot of time working with this person. You need to feel you can trust them because unexpected situations are bound to come up. Perhaps you didn't consider what style of door handle you want for the master bathroom, or the carpet you selected for the living room is no longer available. These types of situations happen with any project, so do your best to remain patient throughout the construction process.

See to it that your contractor provides a timeline that they can stick to and that works with your needs. Get a list of subcontractors they use, and look into their history. Use careful consideration when choosing your contractor for the most successful outcome.

Be sure your general contractor is licensed and insured. They should have both contractor’s liability insurance and worker’s compensation insurance. An insured contractor will take responsibility for the project and for anything that happens at the worksite. Make sure their insurance covers any subcontractors or that they only work with insured third parties.

Ask for proof of insurance right away. Hiring an uninsured contractor may seem less expensive, but it could cost you down the road. In the event of a job-site injury or property damage, a properly insured contractor will shield you from potentially catastrophic costs. Depending on the state you live in, if a worker is injured on your property and their general contractor didn't carry the proper insurance, you might be liable for the cost of treating their injuries.

Homeowners’ insurance policies cover property damage. Some also cover limited injury liability, but these policies have limitations. Even in the unlikely event that your policy covers 100 percent of liability, your premiums would most certainly go up. Contractors insurance ensures that you don't have to cover any costs unrelated to the project completion itself.

If a contractor is reliable, they'll be licensed and carry insurance, and if they don't have a license, no company will insure them. Proof of proper licensing and insurance is a sure sign of a reliable contractor.

Recent reviews for Altoona General Contractors

97568

Suggest potential customers; Verify if licensed, insured, BBB accredited, written documentation on quote, time on job, start /end dates, receipts for supplies ,supplies, equipment to do the specific job and references from previous completions. It appea...

- Cindy Kutchmark
514969

This Contractor was referred to me. After waiting a month and being promised a couple of times by the Owner Gene to get me a quote on my bathroom remodel, I gave up, a BIG time waster. A Contractor is on their best behavior at the time of hiring, and wh...

- sanford allen
8325

We've used Burke Building & Remodeling for several projects, large and small, over the years, and each time the planning, execution and outcome were outstanding. The Burke Team knows how to deliver very high quality results on time or even ahead of sched...

- Dave Shirey
110615

Mike and his crew did a great job cutting up and removal of a huge pine tree that had fallen across my fence. They were very professional. I would highly recommend them.

- Patty Ebersole
110631

I had a great time working with Patty. She even used a jack to lift up the tree stump. She's on top her game. It was a pleasure. MVCONSTRUCTION

- Michael Vaught
118046

On Monday, March 5, 2018, I advertised on porch.com that I needed a contractor to replace a rotted wooden soffit and fascia under the eave of a dormer of my house. I also said that I wanted the gutter along the dormer roof cleaned and covered with a gutte...

- Randy Miller

Everything You Need to Know About Altoona General Contractors

Does the general contractor I want to hire need to be licensed in Altoona?

Before you start any project, it is crucial to learn about the certifications and licenses that you or your General Contractor need to have. There are 9 general contractors in Altoona that are licensed.

Here are the types of license(s) General Contractors need to have to work on General Contractor Services jobs in PA:

    How do I know I am getting a fair price for General Contractor Services work in Altoona?

    Every General Contractor Services job has different requirements. Remember that the price will differ depending on the scope of your project. However, that doesn't mean you have to go in blind. Check out our tips for getting a fair price for Altoona work from General Contractorsbelow:

    • Talk to a few different General Contractors and ask for quotes to compare. We have around 50 professionals and companies in Altoona for you to compare.
    • Before contacting a company, check out the ratings and reviews from previous customers to learn what others have paid, how long the General Contractors took on the job, and how satisfied they were.

    How does invoicing/payment work for most General Contractor projects in Altoona?

    Every project differs, but you should ask any general contractor for an estimate, before they do any work. In fact, ask for their general payment terms before any general contractor services work is done.

    If the job is large and going to take longer than a day, it's common practice for general contractors to request a down payment. Usually, this will be around 25% so they can commence work on your general contractor project.

    If it's a quick job, you'll likely be given an invoice/bill when the job is complete. Then it's up to you and the general contractor to determine if you pay immediately or can send payment at a later date.

    All General Contractors in Altoona, PA

    Porch Pro Headshot Bailey's Contracting
    General Contractors
    Serves Altoona, Pennsylvania
    3+years experience. We are working in Pittsburgh now and Wanting to Start our own business closer to home. Tile, hardwood, vinyl and laminate flooring. Tile showers and Masonary work.
    3+years experience. We are working in Pittsburgh now and Wanting to Start our own business closer to home. Tile, hardwood, vinyl and laminate flooring. Tile showers and Masonary work.
    Porch Pro Headshot Custom Remodelers
    General Contractors
    Serves Altoona, Pennsylvania
    Custom Remodelers offers a wide range of services to help meet your remodeling or construction needs. We have over 30 years experience in the industry for the homeowner or investor. We specialize in all areas of home remodeling, home improvements, rental properties, home flips, investor hold/sell, e...Read more about Custom Remodelers
    Custom Remodelers offers a wide range of services to help meet your remodeling or construction needs. We have over 30 years experience in the industry for the homeowner or investor. We specialize in all areas of home remodeling, home improvements, rental properties, home flips, investor hold/sell, e...Read more about Custom Remodelers
    Porch Pro Headshot HOME-TOWN HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING
    General Contractors
    Serves Altoona, Pennsylvania
    Experienced in construction, HVAC, and plumbing. Furnace and A/C service and cleanings to Sewer and well pump replacements. We do it all not a job to big or small. Always treating our customers with respect and taking pride in our work as if it's our own. Very reasonably priced and free estimates.
    Experienced in construction, HVAC, and plumbing. Furnace and A/C service and cleanings to Sewer and well pump replacements. We do it all not a job to big or small. Always treating our customers with respect and taking pride in our work as if it's our own. Very reasonably priced and free estimates.
    Porch Pro Headshot Moore Contracting and Services
    General Contractors
    Serves Altoona, Pennsylvania
    (17)
    Are you spending more then you should be for heating and cooling? The problem could be your windows. Have them replaced by the experts at Moore Contracting and Services in Mount Lena, MD today.
    Are you spending more then you should be for heating and cooling? The problem could be your windows. Have them replaced by the experts at Moore Contracting and Services in Mount Lena, MD today.
    Porch Pro Headshot Preston DeWitt Painting & Remodeling
    General Contractors
    Serves Altoona, Pennsylvania
    Keep your property looking its best with the hard-working professionals of Preston DeWitt Painting & Remodeling in Lonaconing, MD.
    Keep your property looking its best with the hard-working professionals of Preston DeWitt Painting & Remodeling in Lonaconing, MD.
    Porch Pro Headshot Barton Contracting
    General Contractors
    Serves Altoona, Pennsylvania
    Porch Pro Headshot A+Painting,Staining & Power Washing LLc
    General Contractors
    Serves Altoona, Pennsylvania
    (1)
    Do you need something painted? Look no further, the painters at A+Painting,Staining & Power Washing LLc in the Accident area are up to the challenge. Get a hold of them today.
    Do you need something painted? Look no further, the painters at A+Painting,Staining & Power Washing LLc in the Accident area are up to the challenge. Get a hold of them today.
    Porch Pro Headshot Mauthe Construction
    General Contractors
    Serves Altoona, Pennsylvania
    I have a thriving company since 1982. We are trying to expand our company to possible add more employees.
    I have a thriving company since 1982. We are trying to expand our company to possible add more employees.
    Porch Pro Headshot Eugene Ehredt Construction
    General Contractors
    Serves Altoona, Pennsylvania
    (1)
    Porch Pro Headshot S&D Construction
    General Contractors
    Serves Altoona, Pennsylvania
    Porch Pro Headshot Cafeo Builders & Developers LLC
    General Contractors
    Serves Altoona, Pennsylvania
    Porch Pro Headshot zorger custom tile and renovations
    General Contractors
    Serves Altoona, Pennsylvania
    Porch Pro Headshot Dean and Sons Construction
    General Contractors
    Serves Altoona, Pennsylvania

    Latest projects near Altoona

    Recent projects booked on Porch
    Hollidaysburg 16648
    Residential Building
    Start Date
    Within 48 hours
    Project type
    Something else
    Residential building project type
    Remove and replace entry door knob,door handle or what ever its called ASAP
    Extent of design prep work
    No
    Hollidaysburg 16648
    Demolition
    Start Date
    Within a month
    Demolition work type
    Whole home
    Home height
    Two floors
    SQFT of home
    1,000-2,000 sq ft
    Approximate year built
    1976-1990
    Already have permits for demolation
    No, but I'm in the process of acquiring them
    Duncansville 16635
    Residential Building
    Service needed
    Residential Building
    Start Date
    I'm flexible
    Altoona 16601
    Basement Waterproofing
    Service needed
    Basement Waterproofing
    Start Date
    Within a month
    Altoona 16601
    Rough Carpentry
    Service needed
    Rough Carpentry
    Start Date
    Within a month
    Altoona 16601
    Demolition
    Start Date
    Within a week
    Demolition work type
    Whole home
    Home height
    One floor
    SQFT of home
    1,000-2,000 sq ft
    Approximate year built
    1901-1950
    Already have permits for demolation
    Yes