Philadelphia Home Renovation Blog
Straight answers on costs, permits, 203(k) loans and remodeling, written by the MatrixGC team for Philadelphia homeowners, buyers and investors.
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Our most useful guides for planning a project in Philadelphia.
PermitsThe Ultimate Guide to Philadelphia Building Permits (2026 Update)
203(k) loansFHA 203(k) Loan Timeline: How Long It Takes (2026 Guide)
Cost guideKitchen Remodel Cost in Philadelphia (2026 Guide)
Cost guideBathroom Remodel Cost in Philadelphia (2026 Guide)
Cost guideGut Renovation Cost in Philadelphia (2026): Rowhome Price Guide
Cost guideBasement Finishing Cost in Philadelphia (2026 Guide)Free planning tools
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New guides every week. Newest first.
A Home Inspection for a 203(k) Loan: Is it Required?!
Buying a home is a big deal. It's the most significant investment you will ever make. So, you have to get it right! That's where a home...
Closing a 203(k) Project: Finalized Permit Vs. Certificate of Occupancy
Different Types of Caulk and Their Usage
Short answer: Use silicone caulk for showers, tubs and sinks, acrylic latex caulk for painted trim and drywall, polyurethane caulk for...
How to Determine Gas Pipe Sizing: A Comprehensive Guide
Short answer: Gas pipe size depends on the total BTU load of your appliances, the length of the longest run from the meter and the gas...
How to Install a Laminate Countertop End Cap
Short answer: Cut the end cap slightly oversized, then iron it on at medium heat if it is pre-glued, or glue it with contact cement. Press...
Snow Melting Driveway Systems for Residential Properties
The freezing of snow on driveways or walkways has always been a major issue for homeowners in cold areas. It can be dangerous, especially...
Smoke Alarms and Fire Alarm Systems Differences
Fire safety can make a big difference in keeping your home safe. Often, we don't think about the possibility of a fire until it happens....
How to Properly Clean Different Types of Floors
You might only realize how vital proper floor cleaning is once a mistake happens! The flooring in your home is one of the most noticeable...
How to Get a Philadelphia EZ Deck Permit
Want a deck or roof deck built in Philadelphia? MatrixGC is a licensed general contractor (#43984) and handles the permit for you. See our...
Caulking Large Gaps: The Ultimate Guide
Short answer: Caulk alone works on gaps up to about 1/4 inch wide and deep. For bigger gaps, push in foam backer rod first (or use...
How to Run a CSST Flexible Gas Line from Meter to Appliances?
Short answer: Run CSST from a manifold near the meter to each appliance in one continuous piece. Use the maker’s fittings, the correct...
Waterproofing Bathroom Floor with Schluter Ditra Over a Wood Subfloor
If you are looking for an easy way to waterproof your bathroom floor and eliminate moisture problems, Schluter Ditra Underlayment may be...
203(k) loan guides
Buying a fixer-upper with an FHA 203(k)? Start with these. See all 203(k) guides
2025 203(k) Loan Update: Everything You Need to Know
Are you planning to buy or renovate a home in 2025? The 2025 203(k) Loan Update brings significant changes to the FHA 203(k) loan program....
Navigating Zoning Rules for Using a Triplex as a Duplex in Philadelphia
In this article, we will go over Zoning Rules for Using a Triplex as a Duplex in Philadelphia. Most people know that when you want to use...
Overcoming Renovation Challenges: How Matrix Construction Turns Obstacles into Opportunities
Believe it or not, renovations are much more complicated than constructing a new house. This article explores overcoming renovation...
Home addition guides
Building up or out in Philadelphia. See all addition guides
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