Cost Breakdown for Home Additions in Lexington, SC

Thinking about adding more space to your home? Whether you need an extra bedroom, a bigger kitchen, or a second story, a home addition can make your house more functional and increase its value. But before you start, you need to know what to expect in terms of cost. Without the right planning, expenses can add up quickly.

The average cost of a home addition in Lexington, SC ranges from $100 to $300 per square foot. The final price depends on factors like the size of the addition, materials used, and labor costs. A simple bump-out addition may cost less, while a second-story build or custom new garage will be on the higher end.

This guide breaks down the cost of different home additions, key factors that affect pricing, hidden costs, and smart ways to save money. If you’re planning a home addition in Lexington, this will give you a clear idea of how to budget and what to expect.

Cost Breakdown: How Much Does a Home Addition Cost in Lexington, SC?

Understanding the cost of a home addition starts with knowing what goes into the price. Labor, materials, permits, and design all play a role in the final cost. While every project is different, you can expect a general price range based on the size and complexity of your addition.

Average Cost of a Home Addition in Lexington

Home addition prices in Lexington typically fall within these ranges:

• Small bump-out (50–100 sq. ft.) – $5,000 to $30,000

• Full room addition (150–400 sq. ft.) – $20,000 to $75,000

• Second-story addition (500+ sq. ft.) – $80,000 to $200,000

• Garage conversion – $10,000 to $50,000

• Custom new garage – $25,000 to $60,000

• Kitchen expansion – $30,000 to $100,000

• Bathroom addition – $15,000 to $50,000

The cost per square foot usually ranges from $100 to $300, depending on the design and materials.

Labor Costs in Lexington, SC

Labor is a major part of the budget. Here’s what you can expect to pay:

• General contractor: 10–20% of the total project cost

• Carpenters: $30–$50 per hour

• Electricians & plumbers: $50–$100 per hour

• Painters & flooring specialists: $20–$40 per hour

Hiring experienced professionals ensures quality work and prevents costly mistakes.

Permit & Inspection Fees

Lexington has local regulations for home additions, and permits are required for structural changes, electrical work, and plumbing. Permit costs can range from $500 to $3,000, depending on the size of the addition. Skipping this step could lead to fines or issues when selling your home.

Home additions in Lexington come with a wide price range based on size, materials, and labor. Understanding these costs upfront helps you budget wisely and avoid surprises.

Cost by Type of Home Addition

The type of home addition you choose has a big impact on cost. Some projects are simple and affordable, while others require major structural changes. Below is a breakdown of the most common home additions in Lexington, SC, along with their estimated costs.

Bump-Out Addition (Small Expansion of an Existing Room)

• Cost: $5,000 – $30,000

• Best for: Expanding a kitchen, living room, or bathroom without a full addition.

• What affects the price? Size, materials, and whether plumbing or electrical work is needed.

Full Room Addition (Adding a Bedroom, Office, or Family Room)

• Cost: $20,000 – $75,000

• Best for: Homeowners who need extra living space without moving.

• What affects the price? Square footage, foundation work, and HVAC system updates.

Second-Story Addition (Building Up Instead of Out)

• Cost: $80,000 – $200,000

• Best for: Homes with limited lot space that need extra bedrooms or living areas.

• What affects the price? Structural reinforcement, roof modifications, and staircase installation.

Garage Conversion & Custom New Garage

• Garage Conversion Cost: $10,000 – $50,000

• Custom New Garage Cost: $25,000 – $60,000

• Best for: Creating extra living space, a workshop, or a home gym.

• What affects the price? Insulation, electrical work, and foundation requirements.

Kitchen Expansion

• Cost: $30,000 – $100,000

• Best for: Homeowners who need more counter space, storage, or an open floor plan.

• What affects the price? Custom cabinetry, appliances, and plumbing upgrades.

Bathroom Addition

• Cost: $15,000 – $50,000

• Best for: Homes with limited bathrooms or growing families.

• What affects the price? Plumbing installation, fixtures, and tile work.

Different home additions come with different price tags. Choosing the right type of addition depends on your budget, space, and long-term needs.

What Affects the Cost of a Home Addition?

The price of a home addition isn’t just about square footage. Several key factors determine how much you’ll spend. Understanding these can help you budget more accurately and avoid unexpected costs.

Size & Scope of the Addition

Bigger additions cost more because they require more materials, labor, and permits. A small bump-out may cost as little as $5,000, while a second-story addition could reach $200,000 or more. The more structural work needed, the higher the cost.

Materials & Finishes

The type of materials you choose can make a big difference in price.

• Standard materials: Vinyl siding, laminate flooring, basic fixtures (more affordable).

• High-end materials: Brick or stone exteriors, hardwood flooring, custom cabinetry (higher cost).

• Energy-efficient options: Insulated windows, solar panels, and smart HVAC systems (higher upfront cost but saves money over time).

Structural Changes

If your addition requires major modifications to your home’s structure, expect to pay more.

• Foundation work – Needed for ground-level additions.

• Roof adjustments – Necessary for second-story additions.

• Load-bearing wall removal – Increases costs if expanding an existing room.

HVAC & Energy Efficiency Considerations

Adding more space means adjusting your heating and cooling system.

• Ductwork extensions – $1,500 – $5,000.

• Upgrading your HVAC system – $3,000 – $10,000 if your current system isn’t strong enough.

Permit & Inspection Fees

Lexington requires building permits for home additions. Costs range from $500 to $3,000, depending on the size and scope of the project. Inspections may also be required at different stages of construction.

Home addition costs depend on more than just size. Structural changes, materials, permits, and HVAC updates all play a role in the final price. Planning ahead can help you manage costs effectively.

Additional Costs to Plan For

Even with a solid budget, unexpected expenses can arise. Being aware of these extra costs can help you avoid surprises and keep your project on track.

Demolition & Site Prep

Before construction begins, the area may need to be cleared.

• Tearing down walls or old structures: $1,000 – $5,000

• Excavation for new foundation work: $2,000 – $10,000

Plumbing & Electrical Work

If your addition includes a bathroom, kitchen, or laundry room, new plumbing and electrical wiring may be required.

• Plumbing installation: $1,500 – $5,000

• Electrical upgrades: $2,000 – $8,000

• New outlets & lighting fixtures: $100 – $500 each

Finishing Touches

The final stage of your home addition includes flooring, painting, trim work, and fixtures.

• Flooring: $5 – $15 per square foot, depending on the material.

• Painting: $2,000 – $6,000 for walls and ceilings.

• Fixtures & trim work: $500 – $5,000 for baseboards, crown molding, and built-ins.

Unexpected Costs & Budget Buffers

No matter how well you plan, unexpected costs can arise.

• Hidden structural issues – Rot, mold, or outdated wiring may require repairs.

• Material price fluctuations – Costs can change due to supply shortages.

• Delays from weather or permits – Extended timelines may increase labor costs.

Experts recommend setting aside 10–20% of your total budget for these unexpected expenses.

A home addition isn’t just about building walls and a roof. Additional costs like demolition, plumbing, electrical work, and finishing touches can add up. Budgeting for these expenses ensures a smooth and stress-free project.

How to Reduce Costs Without Sacrificing Quality

Home additions can be expensive, but there are smart ways to save money without cutting corners. Choosing the right materials, simplifying the design, and working with an experienced contractor can help keep costs under control.

Choose Cost-Effective Materials

High-end materials look great, but they aren’t always necessary. Consider these alternatives:

• Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) instead of hardwood flooring – Costs less but still looks high-end.

• Prefabricated cabinets instead of custom-built – More affordable and still durable.

• Standard-grade fixtures – High-end lighting and plumbing fixtures can drive up costs unnecessarily.

Keep the Design Simple

The more complex the project, the higher the cost. To save money:

• Stick to a straightforward layout – Avoid unnecessary angles, bump-outs, or structural changes.

• Keep plumbing and electrical in place – Moving pipes and wiring increases labor and material costs.

• Build up instead of out – A second-story addition can sometimes be more cost-effective than expanding outward.

Reuse Existing Structures

If possible, work with what you already have:

• Convert underutilized spaces like attics, basements, or garages instead of building from scratch.

• Repurpose materials from the existing home, like doors, cabinets, and trim.

Get Multiple Quotes

Never settle for the first contractor bid you receive. Instead:

• Get at least three estimates to compare pricing and scope.

• Ask for itemized quotes to see where you can cut costs without sacrificing quality.

• Negotiate labor and material costs where possible.

Schedule Construction Wisely

Some times of the year are busier for contractors, which can drive up prices.

• Off-season construction (fall/winter) may result in better deals.

• Avoid last-minute changes – They can lead to extra labor costs and material waste.

Saving money on a home addition is possible with smart planning. Choosing affordable materials, simplifying the design, and hiring the right contractor can keep costs down without sacrificing quality.

Hiring a Professional Home Addition Contractor in Lexington, SC

A home addition is a big investment, and choosing the right contractor is crucial. A skilled professional ensures the job is done safely, legally, and within budget. Hiring the wrong contractor can lead to costly delays, poor workmanship, or even legal issues.

Why Work With a Licensed Contractor?

Hiring a licensed and insured contractor protects you from liability and ensures the work meets local building codes. A professional will handle:

• Permit applications and inspections

• Zoning compliance for Lexington, SC regulations

• Project management to keep construction on schedule

• Quality control to prevent expensive repairs later

What to Look for in a Home Addition Contractor

Not all contractors specialize in home additions. When hiring, look for:

• Experience with home expansions – Check their portfolio for similar projects.

• Verified licensing and insurance – Protects you from legal and financial risks.

• Local knowledge – Contractors familiar with Lexington’s regulations can avoid permit delays.

• Customer reviews and references – Look for positive feedback and completed projects.

Red Flags to Avoid

Avoid contractors who:

• Demand large upfront payments before work begins.

• Provide vague contracts with no detailed cost breakdown.

• Lack a local business address or references.

• Refuse to pull permits (this is a major red flag).

Where to Find a Trusted Contractor

For more tips on hiring a reputable contractor, check out Complete Guide to Home Remodeling Services.

Hiring a professional contractor ensures your home addition is done right the first time. Choose a licensed, experienced contractor who understands Lexington’s building codes and regulations.

Conclusion

A home addition can add space, functionality, and value to your home, but understanding the costs upfront is essential. Factors like size, materials, labor, and permits all impact the final price, so careful budgeting is key. Planning for hidden costs and finding ways to save without sacrificing quality can make the process smoother and more affordable.

If you're considering a home addition, kitchen remodel, bathroom remodel, custom new garage, or full home renovation in Lexington, SC, work with a trusted contractor who understands local regulations and delivers high-quality results. Bomb Island Builders specializes in home additions that blend seamlessly with your existing space while staying within budget.

Contact Bomb Island Builders today for a consultation and get a detailed estimate for your home addition in Lexington, SC. Let our expert team handle the process from start to finish, ensuring a stress-free and successful project.