So, You Want to Add a Second Story in Denver? Let’s Talk Real Costs
Hey there, Denver dreamers! Ever stared at your single-story home and thought, “What if we could double the space without moving?” Maybe you’re craving a cozy loft, a home office with mountain views, or just extra room for the kids (or your growing vinyl collection). Adding a second story sounds exciting—until you wonder, “Wait, how much will this actually cost?”
We get it. At Verified Builders, we’ve helped dozens of Denverites turn their “what ifs” into “holy cow, this is amazing!” moments. Let’s break down the nitty-gritty of second-story additions without the corporate jargon. Spoiler: It’s not just about slapping some wood on your roof.
Contents
- 1 What’s the Damage? Breaking Down Second-Story Costs
- 2 “But Why Can’t I Just DIY This?” (Said No Smart Person Ever)
- 3 The Hidden Costs You’ll Want to Budget For
- 4 Why Verified Builders? (We’re Biased, But Hear Us Out)
- 5 3 Burning Questions (Answered Without the BS)
- 6 Ready to Elevate Your Home? Let’s Chat.
What’s the Damage? Breaking Down Second-Story Costs
First, let’s rip off the Band-Aid. In Denver, adding a second story typically runs $150,000 to $400,000+. Before you spit out your coffee, remember: this isn’t a one-size-fits-all number. Think of it like ordering at a gourmet burger joint—options matter. Here’s what flips the price tag:
- Size & Layout: A 500 sq.ft. bonus room ≠ a 1,500 sq.ft. master suite with a spa bathroom.
- Materials: Are we talking builder-grade finishes or luxury home renovations with reclaimed barnwood and heated floors?
- Structural Work: Your existing foundation might need beefing up. (No one wants a wobbly castle.)
- Permits & Red Tape: Denver’s zoning laws aren’t exactly light reading. Pro tip: Let a home addition contractor handle this headache.
“But Why Can’t I Just DIY This?” (Said No Smart Person Ever)
Sure, you could binge YouTube tutorials and attempt this yourself. But unless you’re secretly a general contractor with a crane in your backyard, trust us—this isn’t the time for shortcuts. Here’s why hiring a pro pays off:
- Avoiding “Oops” Moments: Ever seen a roof collapse mid-reno? We have. It’s not pretty.
- Time Savings: What takes a DIYer 12 months takes a remodeling company like ours 3–6 months.
- Resale Value: Sloppy work = lower home value. Quality craftsmanship = $$$.
And hey, if you’re already Googling “home remodeling near me,” skip the guesswork. Verified Builders handles whole house remodeling, from basement contractors to rooftop decks. We’ve got the reviews to back it up.
The Hidden Costs You’ll Want to Budget For
FYI, your initial quote isn’t the whole story. Here’s where budgets often go sideways:
- Temporary Relocation: Demo day isn’t a spa day. You might need to crash elsewhere for a bit.
- Surprise Structural Issues: Older Denver homes love hiding rot or outdated wiring.
- Design Fees: Custom remodels mean architect visits. (Worth it, but still a cost.)
Average Cost Breakdown for Denver Second Stories
| Component | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Design & Permits | $10,000–$25,000 |
| Foundation Upgrades | $20,000–$50,000 |
| Framing & Roofing | $50,000–$100,000 |
| Electrical/Plumbing | $15,000–$30,000 |
| Interior Finishes | $40,000–$100,000 |
| Misc. (Storage, HVAC) | $10,000–$25,000 |
Why Verified Builders? (We’re Biased, But Hear Us Out)
Look, Denver’s packed with bathroom renovation contractors and basement remodel contractors. But a second story? That’s major surgery. Here’s why we’re the go-to:
- Transparency: No shady “it’ll cost extra” surprises. We swear.
- Local Know-How: We speak Denver’s permit language fluently.
- Full-Service Magic: Pair your second story with a bathroom remodeling project or kitchen refresh. One crew, less chaos.
Plus, our clients’ reviews don’t lie. One couple turned their Capitol Hill bungalow into a modern duplex—with a rooftop hot tub. Goals, right?
3 Burning Questions (Answered Without the BS)
1. “Will my foundation support a second story?”
Maybe! Older homes often need reinforcement. We’ll assess it first—no charge.
2. “Can I live at home during construction?”
Technically yes, but prepare for dust, noise, and zero privacy. IMO, rent a Airbnb.
3. “Is it cheaper to build up or out?”
Up is usually pricier (foundation work, stairs, etc.), but saves yard space. Out requires land. Your call!
Ready to Elevate Your Home? Let’s Chat.
Adding a second story isn’t just about square footage—it’s about reinventing how you live. And while the process can feel overwhelming, that’s why teams like Verified Builders exist. We handle the heavy lifting; you handle the Pinterest inspo boards.
So, if you’re serious about skipping the “tiny house” trend and doubling down on space, give us a shout. Let’s make your Denver home as big as your ambitions. :)**
P.S. Pro tip: Budget for extra coffee. Renos are exhausting.
