Frame an Addition Costs

Framing consists of various sizes of lumber, including a mix of 2x4 studs and 2x6 framing joists, joined together with nails, nailing plates, screws, glue, and other materials. The majority of the cost in framing is in the materials. Framing an addition is going to be slightly more expensive than framing part of a new home construction because it has to be tied into the existing structure properly and securely.

The size of your addition and the quality of materials that you want to use will impact how much framing costs. For example, if you need metal framing to protect your home from hurricane damage or mold-resistant joists because you live in a damp climate, your costs will be different than someone who can use basic, standard grade framing lumber. This lumber is also significantly cheaper than finishing lumber, so costing the right materials is important.

Addition framing: a 200 sq.ft. room, lumber structure.

Other considerations and costs

• Metal framing is required in some regions for building codes and weather-related damage prevention. Your insurance company may also have framing requirements that could affect your insurance coverage if they aren’t properly adhered to. Check this before starting any addition project.
• Building an addition will require at least one building permit, and maybe multiple permits depending on where you live and what work is being done. Be sure to check what is required and how much they will cost. Usually, permit fees are only a few hundred dollars, at most.
• You can build a detached addition, which doesn’t change the cost of the framing. It will, however, increase the cost for the foundation, as well as necessary plumbing and electrical work.

DIY considerations

• If you have advanced carpentry skills, you may be able to do some of the framing work yourself. However, remember that these are the bones of your house and they should be constructed and installed properly. If you aren’t confident and capable, leave it to the pros.
• Some cities and states limit DIY projects to a certain scale or restrict certain types of projects. Framing is a big undertaking, and due to its nature, it might not be approved for DIY work in some areas. A structural engineer may need to approve the completed structure for habitation.

References

• Craftsman Estimator Costbook, complete series year 2019.
• Latest prices found on Home Depot and other vendor Web sites.
• Literature review of DIY Web sites.