Sexton Construction in Chattanooga: Full-Service General Contracting for Residential Remodels and New Builds

Sexton Construction is a licensed general contractor serving Chattanooga homeowners and builders with residential remodeling, new construction, and renovation work. The firm handles projects ranging from kitchen and bathroom updates to whole-home builds, operating as a mid-sized operation that manages both the design coordination and permitting process in-house rather than outsourcing oversight to clients.

What Sexton Construction actually does

Sexton Construction holds a Tennessee general contractor license and operates primarily in Hamilton County and surrounding areas within a 30-mile radius of Chattanooga. The company specializes in residential work rather than commercial or industrial projects. Its scope includes foundation work, framing, additions, kitchen and bath remodels, roofing installation, and complete new builds on owner-supplied or company-sourced lots. The firm also coordinates electrical, plumbing, and HVAC subcontractors as part of its general contracting responsibility, meaning homeowners contract with Sexton rather than managing multiple trades independently.

Services and pricing structure

Sexton Construction works on a per-project bid basis rather than hourly labor rates. For remodeling work, the company provides written estimates after an on-site consultation and takes progress payments tied to construction milestones (typically 25 percent down, draws at framing, rough-in, and substantial completion). Kitchen remodels in the Chattanooga market typically range from $35,000 to $75,000 depending on cabinet selection, countertop material, and appliance grade; Sexton's pricing aligns with that range for mid-range finishes.

All projects include permits and inspections as part of the contract price. The firm handles coordination with the City of Chattanooga Building Department and Hamilton County inspectors, which removes that administrative burden from the homeowner. Material sourcing is handled by the contractor, though homeowners can select or upgrade finishes at cost-plus markup.

How it compares to other Chattanooga general contractors

Sexton Construction competes in a market that includes both one-person operations (like single carpenters who pull permits under their own license) and larger production builders. Unlike a one-person carpenter who takes on jobs sequentially, Sexton manages multiple projects simultaneously, which typically means longer lead times but more consistent project timelines once work begins. Compared to large production builders such as those developing subdivisions on Lookout Mountain or in East Brainerd, Sexton operates at a smaller, semi-custom scale and takes remodel-only work that volume builders often decline.

Choose Sexton for a mid-size remodel where you want a single point of contact managing subcontractors and permits. Choose an independent carpenter if your project is under $15,000 and you're comfortable managing the permit process yourself. Choose a large builder if you're buying a new home as part of a development and want turnkey delivery.

Who Sexton Construction suits and who it does not

Sexton works best for homeowners planning kitchen, bathroom, or whole-home remodels in the $40,000 to $200,000 range who want contractor-managed permitting and coordination. The firm is a fit if you live in Chattanooga or immediate suburbs and need work completed within 12 to 18 months. It is not the right choice if your project is a minor repair (a single bathroom vanity replacement) or if you require commercial or industrial construction expertise.

What the first visit involves

The initial consultation is free and on-site. You'll walk through the space with a company representative, discuss scope, budget range, and timeline. Sexton will take photos and measurements, then prepare a written estimate within 5 to 7 business days. If you move forward, you'll sign a contract that specifies materials, timeline, payment schedule, and warranty terms. Warranty typically covers labor for one year and defects in workmanship; material warranties are provided by manufacturers.

Hours, licensing, and logistics

Sexton Construction operates Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. for office contact and estimate scheduling. Job sites operate during standard daylight hours; crews typically work 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. The company holds current general contractor licensure with the Tennessee Construction Contractors Licensing Board (verify license status through the state board website, as renewal dates vary). Insurance coverage includes general liability and workers' compensation, required before work begins.

For remodels, crews will need interior access during business hours. Staging and protection of existing finishes is included in the contract. Parking for crew vehicles should be available on-site or immediately adjacent; discuss logistics with your project manager if your driveway or lot is small.

Sexton Construction fills a practical middle ground in Chattanooga's contracting landscape, handling the coordination work that larger builders skip and the multi-trade management that solo carpenters avoid.