Hard Bids vs. Time & Materials: How Your Home Project Is Priced in Pittsburgh

When you hire a contractor in Pittsburgh, your project will usually be priced in one of two ways: hard bid or time and materials (T&M). Understanding the difference helps you budget confidently, avoid surprises, and choose the approach that fits your home and your project.

What Is a Hard Bid (Fixed Price)?

A hard bid is a fixed-price estimate. Once the scope of work is clearly defined, you agree to a single price before work begins.

A hard bid is usually the best option when:

• Your scope is clear and measurable

• Materials and finishes are selected upfront

• Existing conditions are visible and predictable

• The work is straightforward, such as interior painting or flooring installation

Why you may prefer a hard bid

• You know the price upfront

• Budgeting is simpler

• Fewer cost surprises

What to keep in mind

• Hard bids are based on assumptions

• Hidden conditions or scope changes usually require change orders

If your project can be fully planned from the start, a hard bid often makes the most sense.

What Is Time & Materials (T&M)?

Time & Materials pricing means you pay for:

• The actual labor hours worked

• Materials used on your project

• Necessary setup, prep, and coordination

T&M is often used when parts of your project cannot be fully known in advance, which is common in older Pittsburgh homes or renovation takeovers.

T&M is usually the right fit when:

• Walls, floors, or ceilings need to be opened

• Plumbing, electrical, or framing conditions are unknown

• Previous work was left incomplete or incorrect

• The scope may evolve as issues are uncovered

Why homeowners choose Time & Materials

• You pay only for work actually performed

• You can make informed decisions as conditions are revealed

• You avoid inflated pricing for unknowns

What to keep in mind

• Your final cost is not locked in on day one

• Clear communication and documentation matter more

Why Some Projects Start as Time & Materials

In many homes, especially older properties, hidden conditions are common. Guessing upfront can lead to inaccurate pricing or rushed decisions.

Starting with Time & Materials allows your project to move forward safely and responsibly. In many cases, T&M work clarifies the scope so part or all of your project can later transition into a fixed-price bid.

How We Keep Time & Materials Clear and Transparent

Time & Materials should never feel confusing. We focus on:

• Setting clear expectations before work begins

• Providing regular progress updates

• Tracking labor and materials transparently

• Communicating with you before decisions are made

The goal is flexibility paired with visibility.

Which Pricing Model Is Right for You?

• Choose a hard bid if your project is clearly defined and predictable.

• Choose Time & Materials if your project involves discovery, flexibility, or correction of past work.

If you’re unsure which approach fits your home, you can start by requesting an estimate here:https://www.cleanworkcontracting.com/request-an-estimate

We’ll walk you through the options and help you move forward with confidenc