How Much Does It Cost to Vault a Ceiling?

On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Home Services

Vaulted ceilings can add a sense of spaciousness and luxury to your home. Here’s a breakdown of the costs and considerations involved.

1. Average Costs

New Construction: $16,000–$21,000
Conversion of Existing Ceiling: $18,000–$35,000

Why is conversion costlier? It involves removing the attic, adjusting trusses, rerouting utilities, and more complex labor.

2. Cost by Room Type

| Room | Cost Range | Notes |
|------------------------|---------------------|------------------------------------------------|
| Bathroom | $12,000–$18,000 | Humidity management is crucial. |
| Bedroom | $12,000–$18,000 | Adds a luxurious feel to primary bedrooms. |
| Kitchen | $12,000–$18,000 | Requires vent rerouting for exhaust hoods. |
| Living Room | $18,000–$25,000 | Common choice for dramatic, open spaces. |
| Garage | $18,000–$35,000 | Limited by garage’s location and structure. |
| Basement | $10,000–$90,000 | Involves digging or raising the home’s frame. |

3. Cost by Ceiling Type

| Ceiling Type | Cost Range | Details |
|-------------------------|---------------------|------------------------------------------------|
| Groin Vault | $4,800–$10,000 | Crosses two barrel vaults for a unique look. |
| Dome | $4,800–$10,000 | Rounded, ideal for smaller or central areas. |
| Barrel Vault | $5,000–$10,200 | Overhead arch, minimally invasive. |
| Rib Vault | $4,800–$10,000 | Uses arched beams for a dramatic effect. |
| Cathedral | $16,000–$35,000 | Angular, clean design; requires roof work. |

4. Additional Costs

Permits: $200–$2,000 (Typically included in contractor fees).
Labor: Accounts for 75% of costs, or $13,500–$26,250.
Site Prep: $1,100–$6,200 for removing drywall, pipes, and wires.
Electrical Work: $200–$500 (or $2–$4 per sq. ft.) to reroute wiring.
Insulation: $1,300–$3,300 to ensure energy efficiency.
HVAC Updates: $1,180 (average) for rerouting ductwork or relocating equipment.
Painting: $1,600–$2,600 for high-ceiling paint jobs.

5. Energy and Maintenance Considerations

Vaulted ceilings increase heating and cooling costs due to the added space.
Consider energy-saving solutions like:
Zoned HVAC systems.
Ceiling fans for better airflow.
High-performance insulation.

6. DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

DIY Challenges: Requires expertise in structural engineering, electrical work, and permits. Risks include structural instability and safety concerns.
Recommendation: Hire professionals to ensure safe, high-quality results.

7. Ways to Save on Vaulted Ceilings

Build During New Construction: Adding during initial construction is cheaper than conversions.
Combine Jobs: Bundle tasks like lighting and painting to reduce service fees.
Gather Multiple Estimates: Compare quotes from several contractors.
Prepare the Site Yourself: Clear furniture and prep the area to save on labor costs.
Focus on Energy Efficiency: Install proper insulation and consider skylights for natural light.

Final Thoughts

Vaulted ceilings are a significant investment, but they offer dramatic visual appeal and increased spaciousness. Costs range widely, starting at $16,000 for new construction and climbing up to $35,000+ for conversions. Proper planning and hiring experienced contractors are key to success.