Addition & Remodel Cost Guides

The whine of power saws on that new addition or remodeling project can signal the exciting sound of your dreams taking shape or they can conjure visions of “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre.” Fear is understandable. These major construction projects can be scary and expensive. But doing homework on the front end can help you develop a firm budget, a clear vision and a more fruitful relationship with your contractors. It might also lessen the fear factor. Start with the biggest, broadest questions - What do you hope to accomplish with the project and how much do you have to spend? Then your contractors can help you work your way to the smaller questions about specific materials, etc. That kind of strategic planning should bring clarity to the project, which could be the most valuable asset you bring to the table.

Size and Complexity of the Addition or Remodel

Some cost factors here are obvious, such as the size of a porch or extra room. But the nature of each project carries levels of complexity that might not be immediately apparent. Early on, you'll want to get a handle on how many general contractors, electricians, plumbers, carpenters or decorators you'll need to complete the project. You'll also want to consider the cost of permits and inspections. Then, budget at least some extra cushion for the unexpected. An example: Perhaps you have an older home, and when your contractors tear up your carpet, they discover structural problems with the flooring or maybe the plumbers find old pipes that need to be replaced. Hope for the best, but plan for at least a bit of the worst.   Continue Reading
  • Remodel a Bathroom Costs
    Most homeowners spent between:
    $5,666 - $13,031
    Average cost:
    $9,348
    Low cost:
    $2,600
     
    High cost:
    $20,000
  • Remodel a Kitchen Costs
    Most homeowners spent between:
    $12,759 - $31,733
    Average cost:
    $20,556
    Low cost:
    $4,500
     
    High cost:
    $49,700
  • Remodel a Basement Costs
    Most homeowners spent between:
    $10,582 - $27,002
    Average cost:
    $18,724
    Low cost:
    $5,000
     
    High cost:
    $40,000

Select your Addition & Remodel project

Additions & Remodels
Remodel a Bathroom
(11,265 projects)
Average National Cost:
$9,348
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Additions & Remodels
Remodel a Kitchen
(4,144 projects)
Average National Cost:
$20,556
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Additions & Remodels
Remodel a Basement
(3,261 projects)
Average National Cost:
$18,724
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Additions & Remodels
Build an Addition
(2,893 projects)
Average National Cost:
$40,942
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Additions & Remodels
Remodel Multiple Rooms
(2,859 projects)
Average National Cost:
$36,001
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Additions & Remodels
Perform Home Renovations and Repairs
(1,354 projects)
Average National Cost:
$10,182
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Additions & Remodels
Build a Patio Enclosure
(1,121 projects)
Average National Cost:
$15,196
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Additions & Remodels
Build a Garage
(957 projects)
Average National Cost:
$24,682
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Additions & Remodels
Install Carpentry Framing
(896 projects)
Average National Cost:
$3,216
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Additions & Remodels
Demo an Interior
(826 projects)
Average National Cost:
$3,028
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Additions & Remodels
Excavate Land
(443 projects)
Average National Cost:
$2,606
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Additions & Remodels
Build a Closet
(356 projects)
Average National Cost:
$1,836
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Additions & Remodels
Remodel a Garage
(352 projects)
Average National Cost:
$10,772
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Additions & Remodels
Install a Foundation
(335 projects)
Average National Cost:
$7,677
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Additions & Remodels
Build a Barn, Shed or Playhouse
(303 projects)
Average National Cost:
$3,020
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Additions & Remodels
Clear Land or Prepare a Construction Site
(188 projects)
Average National Cost:
$2,592
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Additions & Remodels
Remodel for Disability Accommodation
(173 projects)
Average National Cost:
$5,585
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Additions & Remodels
Build a Carport
(107 projects)
Average National Cost:
$6,189
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Additions & Remodels
Build an Outdoor Kitchen
(74 projects)
Average National Cost:
$8,656
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Additions & Remodels
Install Steel Beams
(43 projects)
Average National Cost:
$2,155
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Additions & Remodels
Get a Building Permit
(34 projects)
Average National Cost:
$979
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Additions & Remodels
Hire a Construction Manager
(23 projects)
Average National Cost:
$12,325
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Workers for an Addition or Remodel

Depending on how your size-and-complexity plans work out, you may find you need one general contractor, or you may find you need a team of specialized professionals. For example, if you are doing a remodel, you may want to start with consulting an interior decorator. But, as with hiring any home professionals, you want to be cautious about whom you choose. For instance, watch out for decorators who offer free services - these can actually be a manufacturer's representative pushing certain products. Besides narrowing your options, you may pay more in the long run. A flat-fee decorator might look like a great bargain on the outset, but make sure that this person won't insist on acting as your exclusive buying agent. You don't want decorators who will steer you toward marked-up products that carry larger commissions for them. Always check prices you get from your decorator against retail.
You may also need to hire people that you didn't even think about - such as a structural engineer. The structural engineer inspects the foundation, infrastructure, curtain wall, insulation and building envelope. Through careful inspection and comparison to the approved building plans, the engineer can ensure that the actual building meets the drawings provided and that any necessary corrections are made. While this might be an extra cost that you didn’t initially anticipate, the safety of your structure is paramount, and this simple exercise can save you money and legal hassles down the road.

Budget for an Addition or Remodel

Once you have your plans in place, remember that you can always make changes that modify your budget as you go. For example, maybe get a mid grade carpet instead of the highest grade available. Wait for a sale to purchase items like paint, appliances or new windows. Use coupons. Look for rebates. If you have the time, plan your remodel or addition as early as possible and start purchasing items you know you'll need early. This way you are incurring a slight cost over time and not a large cost all at once. You may also be able to afford a higher end product that you would normally not be able to afford if you tried to purchase everything at one time.

Addition Exteriors

Because the interior for an addition can be so involved, it’s easy to forget or discount the effort needed to make the exterior shine. You will need to consider the siding and roofing materials you would like to use to finish this space. And you might weigh the quality of exterior materials against their visibility. Also in the cost of the addition, be careful to factor in the permits needed and the work needed to prepare the foundation.

The Value of Your Remodel or Addition

Yes, these big projects can be daunting undertakings. But driving the project’s moment must be your goal to reap the benefits once it’s done. You will have a more beautiful and functional home. And if you execute you project strategically, you'll find that it’s worth considerably more than when you started. Kind of makes all the sawdust and fear worth it.

Share your cost experience

Help others plan and budget for their projects

David Andserson More than 1 year ago
I've been a remodeling contractor in California for over 30 years. Projects that run smoothly are when folks know what they want by doing their homework first. Knowledge is power. Ask questions on everything you don't know or understand. What is also good is to have pictures & ideas in a file prior to ever starting a project. remodeling an older home may have hidden costs, or homes with wood floors. I Think older homes were often better built than what's  going on today. There is way too much gingerbread & fake materials out there just to look competitive. Plus owners should know the pros & cons of the finish materials they want. All I am saying again is do your home work. Be informed. Not all marble is equal. Same with tile and fixtures  an flooring. Houses expand and contract. Cabinets made in a cabinet shop are often better built & stronger than you find in a chain stores. My dad was a cabinet maker from the old school of craftsmanship. I've seen many of his cabinets survive over 3  generations in the same home. Folks want quality at the best price. Several times I have done remodels where my father had built bookcases and desks for homes. When they found out I was the son. They wanted me to see their grown boys rooms and see those cabinets.  I would call your local building department & see if permits are required. Honesty is the best way to save from problems you don't need.  Good Luck to all of you.
Grace arispe 25 days ago
Just need an 11foot with 12ft all the way are around
B HARRIS 3 months ago
Have you did remodeling recently in the Louisville area?
irma vester 3 months ago
I have to replace siding on the  back of the house the sides are  brick and front is wood hope to get a good
 Price
Ignacio Casique 11 months ago

My contractor installed 6mil PTO Membrane roof in the new house, but he did not use any insulation in between the roof decking and membrane. There is water pooling already and lots of air bubbles forming when it gets hot outside. He used mechanical placement instead of adhesive. I am very concern with this roof. Any advice would be very much appreciated.


Patricia Montgomery More than 1 year ago
Too expensive
IRENE STOLLER More than 1 year ago
I know exactly what I want to end up with. What I need is a draftsperson who can translate my ideas into drawings that will permit me to get contractors to make accurate bids on the project(s). I will need an ADA bathroom, an enlarged and larger kitchen, an enlarged laundry/utility room, a garage, and a new screened porch. I need to make the house I bought 6 months ago more functional and to my taste.
Cindy Keller 4 months ago
Hi Irene,
Im new to this site,so hopefully this information will help you or another person in need of answers.
Im strongly recommending that you use a architect/ architectural engineer. Avoid using a draft person!! 
The reasons :All  plans must be reviewed, approved & signed off by a ENGINEER!!
So your looking at paying double.
You can take your plans to the planning dept and wait for their engineer to review them
**( if the planning dept in your area still offers this service) Many planning dept are fazing out this service. If they do offer it-it will be expensive,and very time consuming. You are at their Mercy !!! I strongly do not recommend this route- because it takes forever!!
Any reputable GC on a regular basis works with architects/engineers and can easily refer you to one in your area ,or someone they trust. 
Keep in mind that a GC usually wont charge for this ,however if hours of their time are consumed by this(which can easily happen ) there will be a fee. If the hours & fee are reasonable-Many GC will credit the amount toward the project   if they get it.

I am a GC and I hope this helps
Cindy
Tyrone Mullins More than 1 year ago
I am looking into an outdoor shower . Thanks!
Lee Pham More than 1 year ago
I would like to install a wall and door in te the garage to make an extra room with permit, I did bild with handyman without permit then City reqired removed All materian wstill in the garage, I need pemit to rebuild it again Please help ,e to have my room in the garage back with permit City required Thank you, my phone number is 561 594 7063 or email [email protected]
patricia gray More than 1 year ago
Can anyone recommend a modular builder/designer for a bedroom addition ( less than 300 sq.ft.) to add onto a ground floor of an existing home. Home is located in the historic district of Wilmington. Time and budget are critical for this project. Thanks

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