MRC Construction Company https://mrcconstruction.com Tue, 31 Mar 2026 05:47:07 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0 https://mrcconstruction.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/cropped-MRCLogo_Color-e1689704174945-1024x509-1-32x32.png MRC Construction Company https://mrcconstruction.com 32 32 Water Damage Repair: How MRC Handles Insurance Restoration in Hephzibah & Augusta https://mrcconstruction.com/water-damage-repair-hephzibah-augusta/ https://mrcconstruction.com/water-damage-repair-hephzibah-augusta/#respond Tue, 31 Mar 2026 05:41:38 +0000 https://mrcconstruction.com/2026/03/31/water-damage-repair-hephzibah-augusta/ Water damage is one of the most common — and most destructive — types of home damage we see in the Hephzibah and Augusta area. Whether it’s a burst pipe in the middle of winter, storm flooding from a summer thunderstorm, or a slow leak that’s been quietly destroying your subfloor for months, water damage requires fast action and expert repair.

MRC Construction is headquartered in Hephzibah, GA, and we’ve been handling insurance restoration in Hephzibah and across the Augusta metro since 1947. Here’s how we approach water damage repair — and what you should know if your home has been affected.

The Hidden Danger of Water Damage

Water damage isn’t always obvious. A flooded basement is easy to spot, but many of the most destructive water damage situations start small and get worse over time:

  • Slow leaks behind walls that saturate drywall, insulation, and framing before you notice any visible signs
  • Roof leaks that drip into attic insulation and work down through ceilings
  • Appliance failures — dishwashers, water heaters, washing machines — that release water slowly or all at once
  • Foundation seepage in Hephzibah and Augusta homes built on Georgia clay, which holds moisture and can direct water toward foundation walls during heavy rains

The longer water sits, the worse the damage gets. Within 24-48 hours, mold can begin growing in damp materials — turning a water damage problem into a mold remediation problem.

MRC’s Water Damage Restoration Process

Step 1: Emergency Response and Assessment

When you call MRC Construction for water damage, we respond quickly — especially in Hephzibah, where our office is just minutes from most homes. Our first visit includes:

  • Source identification — finding and stopping the water source if it hasn’t been addressed
  • Damage mapping — using moisture meters and thermal imaging to identify all affected areas, including behind walls and under flooring
  • Documentation — photos, moisture readings, and detailed notes for your insurance claim

Step 2: Water Extraction and Drying

Standing water gets extracted immediately using commercial-grade pumps. Then we deploy industrial dehumidifiers and air movers to dry the structure thoroughly. This phase is critical — if the structure isn’t completely dry before rebuild, mold will develop behind new walls.

We monitor moisture levels throughout the drying process with regular readings. The structure is cleared for rebuild only when moisture content returns to normal levels.

Step 3: Mold Assessment and Remediation

If mold is present — which is common in Augusta’s humid climate, especially during summer months — we address it before any rebuild work begins. This may include:

  • Removing affected drywall, insulation, and other porous materials
  • HEPA vacuuming and antimicrobial treatment of structural surfaces
  • Air quality testing to confirm the space is safe for reconstruction

Step 4: Structural Repair and Rebuild

Once the space is dry and clear, we rebuild. Depending on the extent of damage, this may include:

  • Framing repair — replacing water-damaged studs, joists, or subfloor
  • Drywall installation — new drywall, tape, mud, and paint
  • Flooring replacement — hardwood, tile, carpet, or LVP depending on the original
  • Cabinetry and trim — replacing damaged kitchen or bathroom cabinets, baseboards, and crown molding
  • Electrical and plumbing — repairing or replacing any systems compromised by water exposure

Our goal is to restore your home to its pre-damage condition — or better.

Insurance Coordination

Water damage claims can be complex. Coverage depends on the source of the water:

  • Sudden and accidental damage (burst pipe, appliance failure) is typically covered by standard homeowner’s insurance
  • Gradual damage (slow leak, long-term seepage) may not be covered, or may be partially covered
  • Flood damage (rising water from storms) requires a separate flood insurance policy

MRC Construction works directly with your insurance company on covered claims. We provide the detailed documentation adjusters need — including moisture readings, damage scope, and line-item repair estimates — so your claim is processed efficiently.

For Hephzibah and Augusta homeowners, we’ve worked with virtually every major insurance carrier in the area. We know what they expect, and we advocate for our clients to ensure the full scope of damage is covered.

Common Water Damage Scenarios in Hephzibah & Augusta

Storm Flooding

Hephzibah’s location in southern Richmond County, particularly near Spirit Creek and Brier Creek, makes some properties vulnerable to storm flooding. Augusta neighborhoods near the canal and Rocky Creek also see occasional flooding during severe weather events.

Plumbing Failures

Older homes in the Augusta area — especially those built before the 1980s — are prone to pipe failures. Galvanized steel pipes corrode from the inside, and polybutylene pipes (common in ’80s and ’90s CSRA construction) are known for brittle joints and unexpected failures.

Water Heater Failures

A standard water heater lasts 8-12 years. When they fail, they can release 40-80 gallons of water into your home in minutes — enough to cause significant damage to flooring, drywall, and personal property.

Frequently Asked Questions

How quickly should I act after discovering water damage?

Immediately. The first 24-48 hours are critical for preventing mold growth and limiting structural damage. Call MRC Construction for an emergency assessment — especially if you’re in the Hephzibah area, we can be there fast.

Will my insurance cover water damage repair?

It depends on the cause. Sudden, accidental events (burst pipes, appliance failures) are typically covered. Gradual damage and flooding have different coverage rules. We’ll help you understand what’s covered during our assessment.

How long does water damage restoration take?

Minor water damage (single room, quick response) might take 1-2 weeks. Major water damage with mold remediation and structural repair can take 4-8 weeks. We provide a timeline estimate during the initial assessment.

Can I stay in my home during water damage restoration?

For minor damage isolated to one area, usually yes. For extensive damage — especially if mold remediation is needed — your insurance may cover Additional Living Expenses (ALE) while the work is completed.

Need Water Damage Help in Hephzibah or Augusta?

If your home has water damage, don’t wait. Contact MRC Construction today for a free damage assessment. We’re headquartered right here in Hephzibah and serve the entire Augusta metro area.

Call (706) 592-1947 or request your free assessment today.

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Commercial Construction in Augusta: What Business Owners Need to Know https://mrcconstruction.com/commercial-construction-augusta-guide/ https://mrcconstruction.com/commercial-construction-augusta-guide/#respond Tue, 31 Mar 2026 05:41:37 +0000 https://mrcconstruction.com/2026/03/31/commercial-construction-augusta-guide/ Whether you’re opening a new retail location on Washington Road, converting a warehouse in downtown Augusta, or building out office space near Fort Eisenhower, commercial construction in the Augusta area comes with its own set of challenges and opportunities. Understanding the process before you start can save you time, money, and a lot of frustration.

MRC Construction has been serving the CSRA since 1947 — and while we’re known for custom homes and insurance restoration, our general contracting expertise extends to commercial projects across the Augusta metro. Here’s what business owners should know.

Types of Commercial Construction in Augusta

Commercial construction covers a wide range of projects. In the Augusta and CSRA market, the most common include:

New Commercial Builds

Ground-up construction of retail spaces, offices, medical facilities, restaurants, and light industrial buildings. These projects require site selection, permitting, architectural plans, and full construction management.

Tenant Build-Outs

Fitting out a leased commercial space to your business’s specific needs — walls, flooring, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and finishes. This is the most common type of commercial construction for small and mid-sized businesses in Augusta.

Renovations and Expansions

Updating or expanding an existing commercial space — whether that’s a storefront along Broad Street, a professional office in Surrey Center, or a restaurant in the growing West Augusta corridor.

Adaptive Reuse

Converting an existing building to a new commercial purpose — warehouses to event venues, houses to professional offices, retail spaces to medical clinics. Downtown Augusta and the Harrisburg neighborhood have seen significant adaptive reuse activity in recent years.

Commercial Construction Costs in Augusta

Commercial construction costs in the CSRA are generally more affordable than major metro areas, but they vary significantly by project type:

Project Type Typical Cost Per Sq Ft Notes
Office build-out (basic) $50–$80 Standard finishes, minimal plumbing
Office build-out (premium) $80–$150 High-end finishes, conference rooms, breakroom
Retail space $60–$120 Depends on display requirements and frontage
Restaurant $150–$300+ Commercial kitchen, ventilation, grease traps, plumbing
Medical/dental office $120–$200 Specialized plumbing, electrical, HVAC, compliance
Light industrial $40–$80 Warehouse, shop, or flex space

These are planning-level estimates. Your actual cost depends on the specifics of your space, your finishes, and your timeline.

The Commercial Construction Process

1. Planning and Permitting

Every commercial project in the Augusta area requires permits — and the process varies by jurisdiction. Richmond County, Columbia County, and Augusta-Richmond County consolidated government each have different requirements for commercial construction, including fire marshal review, ADA compliance, and health department approval (for food service).

2. Design and Engineering

Most commercial projects require architectural drawings and potentially structural and MEP (mechanical, electrical, plumbing) engineering. Your general contractor can coordinate these professionals or work with your existing design team.

3. Construction

A well-managed commercial build-out follows a predictable sequence: demolition (if needed), framing, rough-in (electrical, plumbing, HVAC), inspections, drywall, finishes, fixtures, and final inspections. Timeline depends on scope — a basic office build-out might take 6-8 weeks, while a restaurant could take 3-6 months.

4. Inspections and Certificate of Occupancy

Before you can open for business, you’ll need to pass final inspections and receive a Certificate of Occupancy (CO). This confirms the space meets all building codes, fire codes, and ADA requirements.

Why Use a General Contractor for Commercial Work?

Managing a commercial construction project yourself — hiring individual trades, coordinating schedules, pulling permits — is possible but time-consuming and risky. A general contractor:

  • Manages the entire project so you can focus on running your business
  • Coordinates all subcontractors — electricians, plumbers, HVAC, flooring, painters
  • Handles all permits and inspections with local jurisdictions
  • Controls the budget with a clear contract and regular progress updates
  • Maintains the schedule by sequencing work efficiently

For Augusta business owners, working with a local GC who knows the permitting landscape and has established trade relationships makes the process significantly smoother.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a commercial build-out take in Augusta?

A standard office build-out takes 6-12 weeks. Restaurants and medical offices take longer due to specialized systems and additional inspections — typically 3-6 months. New ground-up construction can take 6-12 months or more.

Do I need an architect for a commercial project?

For new construction and significant structural changes, yes — it’s typically required by code. For simple build-outs within an existing shell, detailed contractor drawings may be sufficient, depending on the jurisdiction.

Can MRC Construction work on projects outside Augusta?

Yes. Our commercial construction services cover the entire CSRA — including Evans, Martinez, North Augusta, Aiken, and surrounding communities.

What about ADA compliance?

All commercial spaces open to the public must meet ADA accessibility requirements. MRC Construction ensures compliance is built into every commercial project from the planning stage.

Get Your Free Commercial Estimate

Planning a commercial construction project in Augusta? Contact MRC Construction for a free consultation and estimate. From office build-outs to ground-up commercial builds, we bring 75+ years of CSRA construction experience to every project.

Call (706) 592-1947 or request your free consultation today.

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Why Choose a Local Home Builder? Benefits of Family-Owned Construction in the CSRA https://mrcconstruction.com/why-choose-local-home-builder-csra/ https://mrcconstruction.com/why-choose-local-home-builder-csra/#respond Tue, 31 Mar 2026 05:41:36 +0000 https://mrcconstruction.com/2026/03/31/why-choose-local-home-builder-csra/ When you’re ready to build a custom home in the Augusta area, one of the most important decisions you’ll make isn’t about floor plans or finishes — it’s about who you trust to build it. And in the CSRA, that choice often comes down to a national franchise builder versus a local, family-owned contractor.

At MRC Construction, we’ve been building homes in the Augusta area since 1947. We’re biased, sure — but after nearly 80 years of serving this community, we’ve seen firsthand why local builders consistently deliver better outcomes for homeowners. Here’s why.

They Know the Land

Every region has its quirks. The Augusta area has expansive clay soils in Richmond County, rocky terrain in parts of Columbia County, and flood-prone areas near the Savannah River and its tributaries. A local home builder who’s been working this land for decades knows where to test, what to watch for, and how to build foundations that last.

National franchises often apply standardized building practices across regions. A local builder like MRC Construction adapts to the specific conditions of your lot — whether you’re building on acreage in Blythe or a developed lot in Evans.

They Know the People

Building a home involves dozens of subcontractors — framers, electricians, plumbers, HVAC installers, concrete crews, roofers. A local builder has long-standing relationships with the best trades in the area. They know who shows up on time, who does quality work, and who to call when something needs to be fixed.

These relationships also mean priority scheduling. When a trusted local builder calls, good subcontractors answer — because the relationship works both ways.

They Know the Rules

Building codes and permitting processes vary by county. Richmond County, Columbia County, and Aiken County each have their own requirements, inspection schedules, and approval timelines. A local builder navigates these systems routinely — no learning curve, no delays from unfamiliar processes.

MRC Construction handles all permitting and inspections as standard. Whether you’re building in Augusta, Martinez, Hephzibah, or North Augusta, we know exactly what each jurisdiction requires.

You Get the Owner, Not a Sales Rep

With a national builder, you typically work with a sales representative during the planning phase and then a project manager during construction — neither of whom has a personal stake in the outcome beyond their job.

With a family-owned contractor, you often work directly with the people who run the company. Your project isn’t a number — it’s their reputation. In a community the size of the CSRA, reputation is everything. A local builder can’t afford to deliver poor work, because they live and work in the same neighborhoods as their clients.

Flexibility That Franchises Can’t Match

National builders profit from standardization. They offer a set of floor plans with predetermined options, and customization beyond those options either isn’t available or comes at a steep premium.

A local custom builder works the other way around. Your home starts with your vision — your lot, your lifestyle, your priorities. Want to move a wall? Change a window size? Add a covered porch that isn’t in the original plan? A local builder adjusts. A national franchise charges an upgrade fee or says no.

They Invest in the Community

When you hire a local builder, your money stays in the CSRA. It pays local subcontractors, buys materials from local suppliers, and supports a business that sponsors youth sports, donates to local charities, and serves on the Home Builders Association of the Greater Aiken-Augusta Region — where MRC’s president, Doug McMonigle, is a past president of both the local and state associations.

MRC Construction has been part of the Augusta community since 1947. We’re not here because a corporate office identified the market as profitable — we’re here because this is home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are local builders more expensive than national franchise builders?

Not necessarily. National builders have marketing and corporate overhead that gets built into their pricing. Local builders often have lower overhead and stronger subcontractor relationships, which can translate to competitive or better pricing — especially for true custom work.

How do I verify a local builder’s reputation?

Ask for references from recent clients in the CSRA. Check their standing with the Home Builders Association of the Greater Aiken-Augusta Region, the Better Business Bureau, and online reviews. A builder with decades of local history — like MRC Construction’s 75+ years — has a track record you can verify.

Can a local builder handle a large custom home?

Absolutely. Local doesn’t mean small. MRC Construction has built everything from starter homes to large custom residences across the CSRA. The difference is personal attention at every scale.

What if something goes wrong after I move in?

With a local builder, you know exactly where to call — and they’re motivated to respond quickly, because their reputation in the community depends on it. National builders often route warranty claims through corporate systems that can be slow and impersonal.

Build Local, Build Right

Ready to work with a builder who knows Augusta, knows your neighborhood, and takes personal pride in every home? Contact MRC Construction for a free consultation. We’ve been building in the CSRA since 1947 — and we’d love to build your next home.

Call (706) 592-1947 or request your free consultation today.

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Kitchen Remodeling in Augusta: Ideas, Costs, and What to Expect https://mrcconstruction.com/kitchen-remodeling-augusta-ga/ https://mrcconstruction.com/kitchen-remodeling-augusta-ga/#respond Tue, 31 Mar 2026 05:41:35 +0000 https://mrcconstruction.com/2026/03/31/kitchen-remodeling-augusta-ga/ Your kitchen is the center of your home — and if yours isn’t working for you anymore, a kitchen remodel can transform both the space and how your family uses it. Whether you’re updating a builder-grade kitchen in Evans, renovating a mid-century home in Martinez, or doing a full gut renovation in an Olde Town Augusta property, MRC Construction brings over 75 years of CSRA construction experience to every kitchen project.

Here’s what Augusta-area homeowners need to know about kitchen remodeling in 2026.

How Much Does a Kitchen Remodel Cost in Augusta?

Kitchen renovation costs in the Augusta and CSRA area are generally lower than national averages, but they still vary widely depending on the scope of work. Here’s a realistic breakdown:

Remodel Level Typical Cost Range What’s Included
Cosmetic refresh $8,000–$15,000 New paint, hardware, backsplash, light fixtures
Mid-range remodel $25,000–$50,000 New cabinets, countertops, flooring, appliances, lighting
Full renovation $50,000–$100,000+ Layout changes, structural work, custom cabinetry, premium finishes

These ranges reflect Augusta-area pricing. Actual costs depend on your kitchen’s size, the materials you choose, and whether the layout is changing — which brings us to the biggest cost factor.

Layout Changes vs. Cosmetic Updates

The single biggest driver of kitchen remodel cost is whether you’re moving walls, plumbing, or electrical. A cosmetic update that keeps the existing layout is significantly less expensive than reconfiguring the space.

Keeping the current layout means you’re working within the existing footprint — new cabinets in the same locations, appliances in the same spots, plumbing and electrical staying put. This is the most cost-effective approach and still delivers a dramatic transformation.

Changing the layout — opening up a wall to the dining room, moving the sink to an island, relocating the range to a different wall — requires structural work, plumbing relocation, and electrical rerouting. It costs more, but it can solve fundamental problems with how the kitchen flows.

MRC Construction handles both approaches. We’ll evaluate your space and help you decide which path gives you the best return for your budget.

Popular Kitchen Remodel Ideas for Augusta Homes

Based on what we’re seeing from CSRA homeowners in 2026:

Open-Concept Kitchens

Removing the wall between the kitchen and living area remains one of the most requested renovations — especially in homes built in the ’80s and ’90s across neighborhoods like National Hills, West Lake, and Columbia County subdivisions. This creates a more social cooking space and makes the home feel larger.

Kitchen Islands

Islands add prep space, storage, and seating. In Augusta homes with larger footprints — common in Evans and North Augusta — a well-planned island can become the centerpiece of the kitchen.

Updated Cabinetry and Countertops

Swapping outdated oak cabinets for shaker-style painted cabinets, paired with quartz or granite countertops, is one of the highest-impact changes you can make. Georgia granite from nearby quarries is a popular and cost-effective choice for Augusta-area kitchens.

Upgraded Appliances and Lighting

Modern energy-efficient appliances and layered lighting (recessed cans, under-cabinet strips, pendant fixtures over islands) complete the transformation without requiring structural changes.

What to Expect During a Kitchen Remodel

A typical mid-range kitchen remodel in the Augusta area takes 4–8 weeks from demolition to completion. Here’s the general timeline:

  1. Week 1: Demolition and any structural work (wall removal, framing)
  2. Weeks 2–3: Rough plumbing, electrical, and HVAC modifications
  3. Weeks 3–4: Drywall, painting, flooring installation
  4. Weeks 4–6: Cabinet installation, countertop templating and install
  5. Weeks 6–8: Appliance install, backsplash, fixtures, trim, final details

During the remodel, you’ll need a temporary kitchen setup — most families use a spare room with a microwave, mini-fridge, and coffee maker. Plan for it, and the disruption is very manageable.

Why Work With a General Contractor for Your Kitchen Remodel?

Some homeowners try to manage kitchen remodels themselves, hiring individual subcontractors for each trade. This can work for simple updates, but for anything involving multiple trades — cabinetry, plumbing, electrical, flooring, countertops — a general contractor saves time, money, and headaches.

MRC Construction manages the entire project: permits, scheduling, subcontractor coordination, inspections, and quality control. One point of contact, one timeline, one budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit for a kitchen remodel in Augusta?

If you’re doing cosmetic updates only (paint, fixtures, hardware), generally no. If you’re moving walls, plumbing, or electrical, yes — Richmond County and Columbia County both require permits for structural and mechanical work. MRC Construction handles all permitting as part of our process.

Can I stay in my home during a kitchen remodel?

In most cases, yes. You won’t have access to your kitchen during construction, so you’ll need a temporary cooking setup. For full gut renovations with extensive dust and noise, some families choose to stay elsewhere for a few weeks.

How do I choose between refacing cabinets and replacing them?

If your cabinet boxes are in good shape and you like the layout, refacing (new doors and hardware) costs about 40-60% less than full replacement. If the layout needs to change or the boxes are damaged, full replacement is the better investment.

What’s the ROI on a kitchen remodel?

Kitchen remodels consistently rank among the top home improvements for resale value. In the Augusta market, a mid-range kitchen remodel typically recoups 60-75% of its cost at resale — and it makes your home significantly more attractive to buyers.

Get Your Free Kitchen Remodel Estimate

Ready to transform your Augusta-area kitchen? Contact MRC Construction for a free consultation and estimate. We’ve been building and remodeling homes across the CSRA since 1947.

Call (706) 592-1947 or request your free consultation today.

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What to Do After Storm Damage: Insurance Restoration Guide for Augusta Homeowners https://mrcconstruction.com/storm-damage-restoration-guide-augusta/ https://mrcconstruction.com/storm-damage-restoration-guide-augusta/#respond Tue, 31 Mar 2026 05:41:34 +0000 https://mrcconstruction.com/2026/03/31/storm-damage-restoration-guide-augusta-2/ When a severe storm tears through the Augusta area, the aftermath can be overwhelming. Between assessing the damage, protecting your family, and figuring out your next steps, it’s hard to know where to start.

As a general contractor that’s been handling insurance restoration in Augusta and the CSRA since 1947, MRC Construction has helped hundreds of homeowners navigate the storm damage restoration process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you protect your home and your claim.

Step 1: Ensure Everyone’s Safety

Before anything else, make sure your family is safe. If the storm caused structural damage — a collapsed roof section, exposed wiring, or gas leaks — do not re-enter the home until it’s been cleared by emergency services. If you smell gas, leave immediately and call 911.

Once it’s safe:

  • Turn off water at the main valve if pipes are broken
  • Shut off electricity at the breaker if there’s standing water or exposed wiring
  • Avoid walking under damaged ceilings or near leaning walls

Step 2: Document Everything Before Cleanup

This is critical for your insurance claim. Before you move debris, clean up water, or make any repairs:

  • Take photos and video of all damage — exterior and interior, every room, every angle
  • Document personal property damage — damaged furniture, appliances, clothing
  • Save damaged materials — don’t throw away roofing, siding, or flooring until the adjuster has seen it
  • Note the date and time of the storm and when you discovered the damage

The more documentation you have, the smoother your claims process will be.

Step 3: Prevent Further Damage

Georgia law requires homeowners to take reasonable steps to prevent additional damage after a loss. This is called mitigation, and your insurance policy covers these costs.

Immediate mitigation steps:

  • Tarp exposed roofs to prevent water intrusion
  • Board up broken windows and damaged openings
  • Extract standing water to prevent mold growth
  • Move undamaged belongings away from affected areas

Keep receipts for all emergency supplies and services — tarps, plywood, pumps, fans. These are reimbursable expenses.

If you’re in the Augusta area, MRC Construction offers emergency tarping and board-up services. Contact us and we can be on-site quickly.

Step 4: File Your Insurance Claim

Call your insurance company as soon as possible — most policies require prompt reporting of damage. When you call:

  • Provide your policy number
  • Describe the damage in general terms (don’t commit to a final scope yet)
  • Ask about your deductible and any time limits for filing
  • Request a claim number and the name of your assigned adjuster
  • Ask about Additional Living Expenses (ALE) if your home is uninhabitable

Pro tip: Don’t sign any contracts with restoration companies that show up unsolicited after storms. Door-to-door “storm chasers” often do substandard work and can complicate your claim. Work with an established local contractor like MRC Construction who has a long-standing reputation in the CSRA.

Step 5: Get a Professional Damage Assessment

Before the insurance adjuster arrives, it’s wise to get an independent assessment from a licensed contractor. This gives you a baseline understanding of the full scope of damage — including issues that aren’t immediately visible, like water damage behind walls or compromised roof decking.

MRC Construction provides free damage assessments for storm-affected homes across the Augusta metro, including Martinez, Evans, Hephzibah, and North Augusta.

Step 6: Work With Your Adjuster

When the insurance adjuster visits your property:

  • Walk through the damage with them, pointing out everything you’ve documented
  • Share your contractor’s assessment
  • Ask questions about anything you don’t understand in their scope
  • Don’t accept the first estimate if you believe it’s incomplete — you have the right to negotiate or request a re-inspection

A good restoration contractor will communicate directly with your adjuster to ensure the full scope of damage is covered. At MRC Construction, we handle this coordination as part of our standard insurance restoration process.

Step 7: Begin Restoration

Once your claim is approved, restoration work can begin. A full storm damage restoration typically includes:

  • Structural repair — roof replacement, framing, load-bearing walls
  • Exterior restoration — siding, gutters, windows, trim, paint
  • Water damage remediation — drying, mold treatment, insulation replacement
  • Interior finishing — drywall, flooring, cabinetry, fixtures, paint

The timeline depends on the scope of damage. Minor storm repairs may take a few weeks. Major structural restoration can take 2–4 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I have to file a storm damage claim in Georgia?

Most Georgia homeowner policies require you to report damage promptly — typically within 30-60 days. However, you should file as soon as possible. Delays can complicate your claim.

Will my insurance rates go up if I file a storm damage claim?

Not necessarily. Georgia law prohibits insurers from raising rates solely because of a weather-related claim. However, multiple claims within a short period can affect your premiums.

What if my insurance company’s estimate is too low?

You have the right to get your own contractor’s estimate and negotiate. If there’s a significant gap, you can request a re-inspection or invoke your policy’s appraisal clause. MRC Construction regularly helps homeowners document the full scope of damage.

Does MRC Construction handle the full restoration or just the roof?

We handle everything — from emergency tarping through complete interior finishing. As a full-service general contractor, we manage roofing, structural, electrical, plumbing, drywall, flooring, and painting under one contract.

Need Help After Storm Damage?

If your Augusta-area home has been damaged by a storm, don’t wait. Contact MRC Construction for a free damage assessment. We’ve been restoring CSRA homes since 1947 — and we work directly with your insurance company to make recovery as smooth as possible.

Call (706) 592-1947 or request your free assessment today.

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How Much Does It Cost to Build a Custom Home in Augusta, GA? https://mrcconstruction.com/custom-home-cost-augusta-ga/ https://mrcconstruction.com/custom-home-cost-augusta-ga/#respond Tue, 31 Mar 2026 05:41:33 +0000 https://mrcconstruction.com/2026/03/31/custom-home-cost-augusta-ga-2/ If you’re thinking about building a custom home in Augusta, GA, one of the first questions on your mind is probably: how much is this going to cost?

It’s a fair question — and one that doesn’t have a simple answer. Custom home costs in the Augusta and CSRA area depend on a range of factors, from lot preparation and square footage to materials, finishes, and the complexity of your floor plan. But we can give you a realistic framework to help you plan.

At MRC Construction, we’ve been building custom homes in the Augusta area since 1947. Here’s what we’ve learned about home building costs in the CSRA — and what you should budget for in 2026.

Average Custom Home Costs in the Augusta Area

As of 2026, most custom homes in the Augusta metro area cost between $150 and $250 per square foot to build, depending on the level of finish and complexity. That means a 2,000-square-foot custom home might range from $300,000 to $500,000 before land costs.

For context, national averages for new construction tend to run higher — especially in metro areas on the coast. Augusta and the CSRA remain one of the more affordable regions in the Southeast for custom home building, which is one reason families continue to choose this area.

Here’s a general breakdown by build level:

Build Level Price Per Sq Ft 2,000 Sq Ft Home
Standard quality $150–$175 $300,000–$350,000
Mid-range custom $175–$220 $350,000–$440,000
High-end custom $220–$250+ $440,000–$500,000+

These ranges are estimates. Your actual cost will depend on your specific choices — which is exactly why a detailed consultation matters.

What Affects the Cost of Building a Custom Home?

Land and Site Preparation

Before a single wall goes up, you need a buildable lot. In the Augusta area, lot prices vary widely. You might find acreage in Blythe or Appling for significantly less than a developed lot in Evans or along Washington Road.

Site preparation — grading, clearing, utility connections, and driveway access — can add $10,000 to $50,000 or more depending on the condition of the land.

Square Footage and Floor Plan

More space costs more — but the layout matters as much as the size. A simple rectangular footprint is more efficient to build than a home with multiple wings, rooflines, and angles. Open floor plans can be more cost-effective per square foot than homes with many small rooms.

Materials and Finishes

This is where budgets diverge the most. Standard builder-grade cabinets, countertops, and flooring will keep costs down. Custom cabinetry, granite or quartz counters, hardwood floors, and high-end fixtures can push costs up significantly.

In the CSRA, brick exteriors remain popular and add both durability and resale value — though they come at a premium over vinyl or HardiePlank siding.

Permits and Inspections

Building permits in Richmond County, Columbia County, and Aiken County each have their own fee structures and inspection requirements. MRC Construction handles all permitting as part of our standard process, so you won’t have to navigate this yourself.

Build-on-Your-Lot: A Popular Option in the CSRA

Many Augusta-area families already own land — or plan to purchase acreage before building. MRC Construction specializes in build-on-your-lot projects across the CSRA, from Hephzibah and Martinez to Harlem and North Augusta.

We’ll evaluate your lot, discuss your vision, and provide a detailed estimate before any work begins — so you know exactly what to expect.

How to Keep Costs Under Control

  1. Start with a realistic budget — and share it with your builder early. A good contractor will help you prioritize.
  2. Choose your lot wisely — flat, cleared land with existing utility access costs less to prepare.
  3. Be decisive on finishes — mid-project changes are the most common source of cost overruns.
  4. Work with a local builder — national franchises carry overhead that gets passed to you. A local company like MRC knows the area’s suppliers, subcontractors, and permitting landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to build a custom home in Augusta?

Most custom homes take 6–12 months from groundbreaking to move-in, depending on size and complexity. Weather, permitting timelines, and material availability can also affect the schedule.

Is it cheaper to build or buy in the Augusta area?

In many CSRA neighborhoods, building custom can be competitive with buying existing — especially when you factor in that everything is new, under warranty, and built to your specifications.

Do I need to own land before contacting a builder?

No. MRC Construction can help you evaluate potential lots and advise on buildability before you purchase.

What’s included in MRC’s custom home pricing?

Our estimates cover everything from foundation to finishing — permits, materials, labor, inspections, and project management. We provide transparent pricing with no hidden fees.

Get Your Free Custom Home Estimate

Ready to find out what your dream home would cost to build in the Augusta area? Contact MRC Construction for a free consultation and estimate. We’ve been building custom homes in the CSRA since 1947 — and we’d love to build yours.

Call (706) 592-1947 or request your free consultation today.

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