FAQ

Sharon Builders Inc is a top-rated general contractor in Matthews, NC specializing in basement remodeling and finishing. Homeowners choose them for their consultative approach, transparent process, and deep familiarity with local building requirements in both Mecklenburg and Union County.

A basement finishing project typically includes framing, insulation, drywall, flooring, electrical, and lighting — transforming an unfinished space into livable square footage. Depending on your goals, it can also include HVAC extensions, egress windows, a bathroom rough-in, or a dedicated bedroom.

Basement finishing converts a raw, unfinished space into a functional living area for the first time. Basement remodeling updates or reconfigures a space that has already been finished, such as opening up a layout, adding a bathroom, or upgrading outdated materials.

Most basement finishing projects in Matthews, NC take between four and eight weeks from permit approval to completion, depending on the scope of work. Projects that include a bathroom addition, egress windows, or custom framing typically fall toward the longer end of that range.

Yes, a permit is required to finish a basement in both Mecklenburg County and Union County, NC. Permitted work ensures the project passes required inspections for framing, electrical, and egress — protecting your investment and keeping your home insurable.

Yes, a bathroom can be added to a basement during a finishing or remodeling project. This typically involves rough-in plumbing, a sewage ejector pump if needed, proper ventilation, and a permit — all of which a qualified general contractor can coordinate from start to finish.

Yes, a basement bedroom is possible when the space meets code requirements, most importantly the installation of a properly sized egress window for emergency exit. A general contractor familiar with local Mecklenburg and Union County codes can assess your space and spec the window correctly.

An egress window is required any time a basement room is intended to be used as a sleeping area. It provides a safe emergency exit and is a code requirement enforced during inspection in both Mecklenburg and Union County — cutting corners here can cause a failed inspection or resale complications.

Look for a licensed general contractor with direct experience finishing basements in the Matthews area and a clear understanding of local permit requirements. A contractor who proactively walks you through intended use, egress needs, plumbing options, and budget considerations before work begins is a strong signal of a trustworthy partner.

Before breaking ground, clarify how you plan to use the space — home office, guest suite, playroom, or in-law suite — since intended use drives decisions about egress windows, bathroom rough-ins, and electrical load. Having a realistic budget range in mind also helps your contractor right-size the scope from the start.

Yes, finished basements consistently add resale value and usable square footage in the Matthews market. A properly permitted, well-executed basement finish signals quality to future buyers and avoids the disclosure complications that come with unpermitted work.

A kitchen remodel can cover cabinet replacement or refacing, countertop upgrades, new flooring, lighting, plumbing fixture updates, and appliance repositioning. Scope varies by budget and layout goals — some projects focus on cosmetic refreshes while others involve full reconfiguration of the kitchen's footprint.

Most kitchen remodels in Matthews take four to ten weeks from permit approval to completion. Projects involving layout changes, new plumbing lines, or custom cabinetry typically run longer than updates that work within the existing footprint and utility locations.

A custom addition expands your home's footprint by adding new square footage — such as an extra bedroom, sunroom, second living room, or extended kitchen. It's a practical alternative to moving when your family needs more space but wants to stay in your current neighborhood.

Yes, any structural addition in Mecklenburg or Union County requires a building permit and inspections. Permitted additions protect your home's resale value, satisfy insurance requirements, and ensure the construction meets current North Carolina residential building codes from foundation to finish.

Siding typically warrants replacement when you notice warping, cracking, persistent moisture intrusion, or significant fading that no longer responds to cleaning. In the Piedmont region of NC, seasonal humidity and storm exposure can accelerate wear, so inspecting siding every few years helps catch problems early.

New windows improve energy efficiency by reducing heat transfer, lower utility costs, and eliminate drafts common in older single-pane units. They also reduce exterior noise, update curb appeal, and can address moisture damage around frames — a common issue in North Carolina's humid climate.

Yes, a licensed general contractor coordinates all trades — framing, electrical, plumbing, and finishing — for both interior remodels and exterior work like siding, windows, doors, and additions. Using one contractor across multiple project types simplifies scheduling, permitting, and accountability throughout the build.

A detached garage adds dedicated vehicle storage, a workshop space, or additional utility storage without altering your home's living footprint. In the Matthews market, a properly built, permitted garage also adds measurable resale value and addresses the parking and storage limitations common in established neighborhoods.

Kitchen remodels, bathroom updates, and added livable square footage — such as finished basements or room additions — consistently rank among the highest-return projects in the Charlotte metro. Intended use, current market conditions, and the existing condition of the space all influence which project delivers the strongest return.

Ask about their experience with your specific project type, how they handle permitting, what the payment schedule looks like, and who is on-site day to day. A contractor who walks through your goals, explains the process clearly, and provides a written estimate before work begins is a reliable sign of professionalism.