Frequently Asked Questions
Sparling Construction has been building and remodeling homes across Central North Dakota since 1978. We’re a locally owned and operated company — large enough to manage complex, high-quality projects, but small enough that you’ll work with people who genuinely care about your home and your experience.
Whether you’re considering a kitchen remodel, a whole-home renovation, a custom home, or a shop-home through our Homes & Shomes division, this page is here to answer the questions we hear most often and help you feel confident about the road ahead.
What makes Sparling Construction different from other contractors in Bismarck?
We’ve been doing this for nearly five decades, and our reputation is the result of showing up, doing excellent work, and treating people right — year after year, project after project. But beyond experience, a few things genuinely set us apart.
We’re a true design-build contractor, which means your project is designed, planned, and built under one roof by one team. No finger-pointing between architects and builders. No communication gaps. One point of accountability from start to finish.
We’re locally owned and operated right here in Bismarck. You’re not a number on a spreadsheet. Our team is big enough to take on complex builds and renovations, but small enough that you get personal attention and direct access to the people making decisions on your project.
We assign a dedicated project manager to every job. You’ll always know who to call, what’s happening next, and where things stand.
And we understand North Dakota. Our team has deep expertise in building for extreme temperature swings, heavy snow loads, moisture management, and the energy efficiency demands of this climate. The details that keep a home performing well in January aren’t optional here, and we build with that reality in mind every day.
What services does Sparling Construction offer?
Our residential construction and remodeling services include:
- Kitchen Remodeling
- Bathroom Remodeling
- Basement Finishing
- Home Additions
- Whole-Home Renovations
- Custom Homes
- Outdoor Living Spaces
- Garages and Shops
- Light Commercial Construction
- General Contracting
We also build shop-homes and barndominium-style homes through our Homes & Shomes by Sparling Construction division. Whether you’re updating a single room, adding onto your home, or building from the ground up, our team is equipped to bring your vision to life.
Is Sparling Construction locally owned?
Yes. Sparling Construction is locally owned and operated right here in Bismarck. The people leading your project live in this community, raise their families here, and have a personal stake in the quality of the work and the reputation of the company. You’re not working with a franchise or a distant corporate office. That matters, and it shows in how we treat our clients.
How long has Sparling Construction been in business?
We were founded in 1978. That’s nearly five decades of craftsmanship and building relationships in the Bismarck-Mandan area.
What does "design-build" mean, and why does it matter?
Design-build means we handle both the design and construction of your project as a single, integrated team. The traditional approach separates the architect or designer from the builder, which can lead to miscommunication, budget surprises, and delays. Our model eliminates that. Your design is developed with real-world construction costs and timelines in mind from day one, which means fewer surprises and a smoother experience from start to finish.
What is Homes & Shomes by Sparling Construction?
Homes & Shomes is our specialized division focused on shop-homes and barndominium-style builds. These are homes designed for people who want the quality and beauty of a custom home combined with the functionality of a large attached shop or workspace. Think of it as the best of both worlds: a beautiful living space connected to a spacious, purpose-built shop, all under one roof.
Homes & Shomes builds are ideal for clients who value rural living, need space for equipment, hobbies, vehicles, or a home-based business, and don’t want to sacrifice comfort or quality to get it.
What's the difference between Sparling Construction's custom homes and Homes & Shomes?
Sparling Construction’s custom home division focuses on traditional, high-quality custom-built homes — the kind of home you’d expect in established neighborhoods or premium developments.
Homes & Shomes specializes in shop-home and barndominium-style construction, typically on rural acreages or larger lots where clients want significant shop or workspace integrated directly with their living space.
Both divisions are backed by the same team, the same quality standards, and the same nearly five decades of experience. The difference is the product type and the lifestyle it serves.
What is a barndominium or shop-home (shome), and is it right for me?
A barndominium (sometimes called a “barndo”) is a building that combines living quarters with a large workshop, garage, or storage area — typically in a metal exterior, post-frame type of structure. A shop-home is a similar concept built to full residential construction standards, offering the same quality, comfort, and finishes you’d expect in a traditional custom home, with a fully integrated shop attached.
At Homes & Shomes, we build shop-homes — not bare-bones metal buildings with living space bolted on. Our builds feature custom-designed floor plans, quality insulation, full mechanical systems, and interior finishes that feel like a home, because they are one. The shop side is purpose-built for however you plan to use it — equipment storage, vehicle restoration, woodworking, a home-based business, or all of the above.
A shop-home might be right for you if you live or plan to live on a rural acreage, need serious shop or garage space, and don’t want to choose between building a nice home and building a functional workspace. If that sounds like you, we’d love to have a conversation about what’s possible on your property.
Where does Homes & Shomes build?
Homes & Shomes serves the same Central North Dakota footprint as Sparling Construction’s new construction division, covering approximately a 90-mile radius of the Bismarck-Mandan area with a focus on rural properties and acreages.
Can you build a shop-home or barndominium on my rural property?
Yes. Rural builds are what the Homes & Shomes division was created for. We have experience navigating the unique considerations that come with building on acreages, including well and septic systems, utility access, site grading, and longer driveways. If you have land and a vision for a shop-home, we’d love to talk about it.
How do I get started?
Give us a call or fill out the contact form on our website. We’ll set up an initial conversation to learn about your project, your goals, and your timeline. From there, we’ll walk you through exactly what the next steps look like for your specific situation.
Do you offer Free Estimates?
We offer Free Sonsultations — whether that’s in your home for a remodel, at our office for a custom home or shop-home, or over the phone. During that conversation, we’ll discuss your goals, your space, and your budget to help you understand what’s realistic and whether we’re the right fit for your project.
For detailed design work and a comprehensive project estimate, we use a Design Retainer Agreement. This retainer covers a portion of the costs associated with producing 2D and 3D designs, material selections, and a thorough line-by-line estimate tailored to your specific project. If you move forward with us, the retainer is credited back on your final bill. If you decide not to proceed, it helps cover a portion of the design and estimating work that went into your project.
We use this approach because producing an accurate, detailed estimate requires a significant investment of time and expertise. It allows us to focus our energy on clients who are serious about their projects, and it ensures every client we work with receives our full attention rather than a rushed ballpark number.
How do I know if I should remodel or build new?
This is a question we help clients work through regularly, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on several factors: how much you love your current lot and neighborhood, the condition and layout of your existing home, the scope of changes you’re envisioning, and your overall budget.
As a general rule, if you love where you live and the changes you want can be accomplished within your home’s existing footprint or with a manageable addition, remodeling is often the smarter path. But if you’re looking at a full gut renovation that would essentially rebuild the home from the inside out, or if your property can’t accommodate the space you need, building new may give you more value in the long run.
Because we do both — remodeling and custom homes — we don’t have a bias toward one or the other. We’ll give you an honest assessment based on what makes the most sense for your situation, your goals, and your investment.
What should I have ready before our first meeting?
You don’t need to have everything figured out. That’s our job. But it helps to think about a few things ahead of time:
- What’s driving the project? (More space, outdated finishes, a lifestyle change, etc.)
- Any inspiration photos or ideas you’ve been collecting (Pinterest boards, magazine clippings, Instagram saves — all fair game)
- A general sense of what you’re comfortable investing
- Your ideal timeline or any deadlines (moving in before school starts, holiday hosting, etc.)
If you have existing floor plans or a property survey, bring those along. But if you don’t, no problem. We’ll figure it out together.
How far in advance should I reach out?
The earlier the better. For larger projects like custom homes, shop-homes, additions, or whole-home renovations, reaching out between October and May typically gives us the most ideal planning window to pull together the design, plans, estimate, and construction schedule before winter arrives.
Smaller remodels typically need significantly less lead time — somewhere between 3 to 6 weeks depending on the project. Our schedule can fill up quickly, especially heading into the building season, so planning ahead makes a real difference.
Do you offer in-home consultations?
Yes. For remodeling projects especially, seeing your space in person is essential. It allows us to evaluate existing conditions, talk through possibilities, and give you grounded recommendations rather than guesses.
For Homes & Shomes consultations or Sparling custom home consultations, those typically take place at our office where we can review plans and ideas together in person. Some clients prefer to start with a phone consultation, which can be more convenient for those who live outside of the Bismarck-Mandan area.
What happens after the initial consultation?
The next step is a Design Retainer Agreement. This retainer (which varies depending on the size and complexity of your project) allows us to begin the 2D and 3D design of your home or remodel, along with a detailed estimate that accounts for all of the costs associated with your project — labor, materials, subcontractors, allowances, permits, and more. The goal is to give you a clear picture of what your project will look like and how much it will realistically cost.
If you move forward with us, your retainer is credited back on your final bill — so you essentially pay nothing for the preliminary design and estimating work. If you decide not to proceed, the retainer helps cover a portion of the time and resources invested in designing and estimating your project.
This approach allows us to focus our time and energy on clients who are serious about their projects, rather than diverting resources to speculative bids. It’s been a great way for us to better serve our community and deliver a higher level of attention to every client we work with.
How much does a remodeling project cost in Bismarck, ND?
This is one of the most common and important questions we get, and the honest answer is: it depends on what you’re trying to accomplish. A bathroom refresh with cosmetic updates is a very different investment than a full gut-and-reconfigure with custom tile, heated floors, and a walk-in shower. The same is true for kitchens, basements, additions, and every other project type.
What we can tell you is that we’re not the cheapest option in town, and we’re upfront about that. Our clients come to us because they want the project done right the first time, with quality materials, experienced tradespeople, and a company they can trust. We provide extremely detailed estimates so you know how to budget and plan accordingly before any work begins.
The best way to get a rough ballpark is through our free initial consultations, and the best way to get an accurate estimate tailored to your specific project is through our Design Retainer Agreement.
What should I budget for a custom home in Bismarck, ND?
Just like remodeling, the cost of a custom home depends on the size of the home, the complexity of the design, the materials and finishes you select, and your specific site conditions. A straightforward floor plan on a flat, accessible lot with standard finishes is a very different investment than a heavily detailed home with complex rooflines, premium materials, and challenging site work.
What we can tell you is that most of our custom homes start at around $500,000 and can range well above $2 million depending on scope and selections. That range reflects the level of quality, craftsmanship, and attention to detail that our clients expect and that we’ve built our reputation on for nearly five decades.
If those numbers align with what you’re envisioning, we’d love to sit down with you and start talking about your project. Our Design Retainer process is the best way to move from a general budget range to a detailed, accurate estimate built around your specific plans.
What factors influence the cost of a project?
The biggest cost drivers are the size and complexity of the work, the materials and finishes you select, whether structural or mechanical changes are involved (moving walls, upgrading electrical, relocating plumbing), and the current condition of the space. Permit fees, engineering requirements, and site-specific challenges also play a role. We walk through all of this during the planning phase so nothing catches you off guard.
Do you provide detailed proposals and estimates?
Yes. Every project receives a written proposal that clearly outlines the scope of work, material selections, and costs. We want you to understand exactly what is included, what is not included, and how much of an investment it will be.
Will I be able to see what my project looks like before you build it?
Yes. We have a talented in-house designer who creates 3D renderings and virtual walkthroughs of your project. This lets you see your new kitchen, bathroom, addition, or home in realistic detail before a single wall is touched. It’s one of the most valuable parts of our process because it gives you the opportunity to make changes on screen — where they’re easy — instead of on the job site, where they’re expensive. We want you to feel confident and excited about the design before construction ever begins.
Can I choose my own materials and finishes?
Of course. We’ll guide you through the selection process, help you understand the trade-offs between different options, and make sure everything works together aesthetically and functionally. But the final choices are always yours.
Do you handle permits and inspections?
Yes. We take care of all required permits and coordinate every inspection throughout the project. You shouldn’t have to navigate the permitting process on your own.
Do you design for North Dakota's climate specifically?
Every time. Our designs account for the realities of building in this region: extreme cold, freeze-thaw cycles, snow loads, moisture management, insulation requirements, and energy efficiency. These aren’t afterthoughts. They’re built into the design from the start.
Who manages my project, and how will communication work?
Every project is assigned to our dedicated project manager, who serves as your primary point of contact from pre-construction through the final walkthrough. You’ll receive regular updates, and you’ll always know who to reach out to with questions. We don’t leave you guessing about what’s happening in your own home.
In addition to our project manager handling the overarching scheduling and coordination, our experienced project supervisor visits your job site regularly to ensure work is running smoothly and meeting our high standards of quality.
How do you handle changes during construction?
Changes happen, and we have a clear process for managing them. Any modification to the original scope is documented through a formal change order that outlines what’s changing and the costs associated with it. Nothing changes without your written approval.
Will I be able to live in my home during the remodel?
For the large majority of our remodels, yes. We set up dust barriers, protect your floors and finishes, and keep the work area contained as much as possible. It’s not always glamorous, but it’s livable. For larger projects like whole-home renovations, some clients may prefer temporary relocation depending on the scope, but most of the time we’re able to find solutions that allow a family to stay in their home from start to finish. We’ll talk through this early in the planning process so you know what to realistically expect.
How do you protect my home during construction?
We treat your home with the same care we’d want in ours. That means dust containment systems, floor and surface protection, clean and organized work areas, and daily cleanup. Our crews take pride in leaving your home in good shape at the end of each workday.
What are your typical working hours?
Our carpenters and subcontractors generally work standard business hours, Monday through Friday. We do our best to be respectful of your schedule, your neighbors, and local guidelines.
What happens if something unexpected comes up?
In remodeling especially, surprises behind walls or under floors are part of the reality. When they come up, we communicate immediately, present your options, and get your approval before moving forward. Nobody likes surprises, but how a contractor handles them tells you everything about who you’re working with.
Do you build custom homes in Bismarck, ND?
Yes. Custom home building is a core part of what we do. We work with clients to design and build homes that reflect their lifestyle, priorities, and budget. From the initial concept through move-in day, the entire process is managed by our team.
How long does it take to build a custom home?
Most custom homes take 10 to 16 months from groundbreaking to completion, depending on size, complexity, and weather. The design and planning phase typically adds another 2 to 4 months before construction begins. North Dakota winters can affect scheduling, and we plan for that upfront so expectations are realistic from day one.
Can you build on my lot?
Yes. Unless your lot is locked in exclusively with another builder, we can build on land you already own or help evaluate a lot you’re considering. Site conditions like access, utilities, soil, and topography all factor into the planning, and we’ll walk you through what your specific site requires.
Can you remodel a home I just purchased?
Yes, and this is actually one of the more common scenarios we work with. Many of our clients buy an older home in a neighborhood or location they love, knowing it needs work. Whether it’s a dated kitchen, a bathroom that needs a complete overhaul, a basement waiting to be finished, or a full-scale renovation to make the home your own, we can help you develop a plan that transforms the home into exactly what you want it to be.
If you’re still in the process of house hunting, it can be worth reaching out to us early. We can help you think through what a renovation might realistically cost on a home you’re considering, which can be valuable information to have before you make an offer.
How do you make sure an addition matches the rest of the house?
This is something we take seriously. We carefully match architectural details, materials, rooflines, siding profiles, and interior finishes so the addition looks and feels like it was always part of the original home. A well-executed addition should be seamless, and that’s the standard we hold ourselves to.
Do you build energy-efficient homes?
Yes. We incorporate modern building science, high-performance insulation, efficient HVAC systems, and quality windows and doors as standard practice. In North Dakota’s climate, energy efficiency isn’t a luxury upgrade. It’s a necessity, and we design for it from the ground up.
What happens when the project is finished?
We conduct a detailed final walkthrough with you to review every element of the work together. This is your opportunity to go through the project room by room and make sure everything meets your expectations. If anything needs attention, we document it and take care of it promptly. We don’t consider a project complete until you’re happy with the result.
Do you offer warranties on your work?
Yes. We provide a 1-year craftsmanship warranty on our work. In addition, any applicable manufacturer warranties on the products and materials used on your project are passed along to you.
What if I need something after the project is done?
We’re always just a phone call away. Whether it’s a question about maintenance, a minor adjustment, or you’re ready to start thinking about your next project, we’re here — year after year, decade after decade. Many of our clients have worked with us on multiple projects over the years, and that kind of long-term relationship is something we genuinely value.
What areas do you serve for new construction?
For custom homes, shop-homes, and new construction projects through both Sparling Construction and Homes & Shomes, we serve homeowners within approximately a 90-mile radius of Bismarck. That includes Mandan, Lincoln, Menoken, Apple Creek, Washburn, Beulah, Hazen, Lake Sakakawea, New Salem, Steele, and other surrounding communities throughout Central North Dakota.
What areas do you serve for remodeling?
Our remodeling service area covers approximately a 25-mile radius of Bismarck-Mandan. Remodeling projects come with added complexity — more frequent site visits, tighter coordination with trade partners, material deliveries to an occupied home, and the need to be responsive when questions come up. Keeping our remodeling footprint focused allows us to give every project the attention and hands-on management it deserves. It’s an intentional decision, and our clients benefit from it.
Do you work on rural properties?
Yes. We have extensive experience building and remodeling on rural properties, including navigating the unique considerations that come with them — well and septic systems, longer utility runs, access logistics, and more. Our Homes & Shomes division was built specifically with rural properties in mind.
Are you licensed and insured?
Yes. Sparling Construction is a fully licensed and insured general contractor. We carry comprehensive liability coverage and workers’ compensation insurance to protect our clients and our team.
Do you follow local building codes?
Every project we build complies with all applicable North Dakota and local building codes. We handle the code research, the permit process, and inspection coordination so you don’t have to.
You mentioned you're not the cheapest option. Why should I invest more?
Because the difference between a good project and a great one shows up in the details, and the details are where cheaper contractors cut corners. Our clients invest in quality materials, experienced tradespeople, professional project management, and a process that respects their time and their home. The upfront investment is higher, but the result lasts longer, performs better, and adds more long-term value. We’ve been proving that for nearly five decades.
Do you require a down payment?
Yes. A down payment secures your position on our schedule and allows us to begin purchasing materials and coordinating with subcontractors and suppliers who need to order their materials in advance. The specific amount is outlined in your project contract.
How does billing work throughout the project?
After your initial down payment, we use a progressive billing approach. That means you receive invoices as your project moves forward and work is completed, rather than one large bill at the end. Once we’ve completed a final walkthrough together, addressed any remaining items, and you’re satisfied with the result, we send your final bill. This keeps the process transparent and straightforward at every stage.
Can you help with financing?
While we don’t provide financing directly, we have strong working relationships with trusted lenders in the Bismarck-Mandan community. We’re always happy to offer guidance, references, and introductions to local lenders who can help you find the right option for your project.
Service Area
Proudly Building Across Bismarck-Mandan and Beyond
At Homes and Shomes, we’re proud to serve homeowners and businesses throughout central North Dakota. Based in Bismarck-Mandan, our team builds barndominiums, shomes, and custom homes within an approximate 75-mile radius—bringing quality craftsmanship and trusted design-build services to communities big and small.
Our service area includes: Bismarck-Mandan and surrounding towns, The North and South shores of Lake Sakakawea, Beulah, Hazen, Washburn, Wilton, and Center, New Salem, Steele, and Linton. Plus many more rural areas and lake communities throughout central North Dakota
REal customer feedback
Hear from our Customers
It was a pleasure to work with Sparling for my kitchen reno.
It was a pleasure to work with Sparling for my kitchen reno. They were professional and easy to work with, they answered all my questions and were willing to listen to all my ideas and talk over the best options for our goals. The project was completed on time. All the businesses and people I worked with on this project were great!
Monica P.
Thank you so much to the staff of Sparling Construction
Thank you so much to the staff of Sparling Construction and for the integrity you showed us throughout the construction period, which made the journey go real smooth from start to finish. The amount of space it has given us off our kitchen for entertaining makes it really enjoyable for having guests over. Now guests that come to visit try to figure out where they could incorporate a 4-Seasons Sunroom into their home!
The Twardoski Family
Sparling Construction exceeded all our expectations.
Sparling Construction exceeded all our expectations. They made our outdated and unusable basement into a welcoming, comfortable living space. Our house feels like it has doubled in size! They took care of every detail and guided us though every step of the remodeling process. Their workmanship and customer service is unbeatable!
Anonymous
Ready to Get Started?
Whether you’re dreaming about a new kitchen, planning an addition for your growing family, building the custom home you’ve always wanted, or exploring a shop-home through Homes & Shomes, we’d love to hear about your project.
Call us at 701-222-0783 or fill out the contact form on our website to schedule your consultation. Let’s talk about what’s possible.