Raising the roof on a Cape Cod-style home is a significant investment but can dramatically increase living space and functionality. Here's a detailed guide to the associated costs and factors.
Overall Cost Range
- Total Cost: $15,000–$125,000
- Average Cost: $60,000
- Factors Affecting Cost: Project scope, dormer type, materials, labor, and additional features.
| Feature | Cost Range |
|------------------------|------------------------|
| Single Dormer | $40,000–$60,000 |
| Double Dormer | $60,000–$125,000 |
| Labor (40%–60%) | $24,000–$30,000 |
Cost Breakdown by Feature
1. Dormer Type
- Single Dormer: $40,000 (adds space to one side only).
- Double Dormer: $60,000 (expands front and back, more usable space).
2. Roofing
- New Roof for Dormers:
- Single Dormer: $3,000–$6,000
- Double Dormer: $6,000–$12,000
- Total Roof Replacement (if needed): $5,800–$13,000
| Material | Cost per sq. ft. |
|---------------------|--------------------------|
| Asphalt shingles | $2–$5 |
| Metal | $6–$38 |
| Slate | $9–$25 |
| Wood shakes | $6–$16 |
3. Siding for Raised Areas
- Cost per Sq. Ft.: $3–$30 (varies by material).
- Vinyl: $3–$12
- Wood: $1–$15
- Stone Veneer: $5–$11
- Brick Veneer: $3–$10
4. Windows
- New Windows: $300–$1,000 each (average $850).
- Reuse Existing Windows: Potential savings if doghouse dormer windows can be repurposed.
5. Electrical Work
- Hourly Rate: $50–$100
- Total Cost: Around $2,000 (wiring and fixtures).
6. Chimney Alteration
- Cost per Chimney: $500–$6,000
- Extending or relocating chimneys adds complexity and cost.
7. Permits
- Cost: $400–$2,000 (depends on location and project size).
8. Relocation During Renovation
- Temporary Housing: $2,000–$6,000 (for 2–3 months).
Add-Ons to Consider
- Skylights: $900–$2,500 each (adds natural light).
- Roof Ventilation: $300–$700 (reduces moisture build-up).
- Bathroom Addition: $8,000–$30,000 (average $22,000).
- Gutters: $1,200 (full replacement).
- Exterior Lighting: $150–$400 per fixture.
Ways to Save
- Opt for a Half Dormer: Save up to $20,000 by dormering only one side.
- Choose Budget-Friendly Materials:
- Use asphalt shingles ($2–$5/sq. ft.) and vinyl siding ($3–$12/sq. ft.).
- Reuse Existing Windows: If energy-efficient, avoid replacing them.
- DIY Interior Finishing: Take on tasks like drywall, painting, and flooring to reduce labor costs.
- Cost-Effective Housing: Stay with family or friends during construction to save on relocation costs.
DIY vs. Hiring Pros
- Not Recommended for Structural Work: Raising a roof is complex and requires professional expertise (contractors, electricians, structural engineers).
- DIY Tasks: Focus on smaller jobs like painting, hanging drywall, or installing flooring.
Summing it up
Raising the roof on a Cape Cod house is a significant investment, but it offers long-term value by enhancing space and home functionality. With careful planning and budgeting, it’s possible to achieve a dream renovation while controlling costs.
Next: Read 2500+ consumer guides to shopping, electronics, appliances, home services, cars, money and more.
