Dormer Cost

Typical costs:

• The Family Handyman magazine estimates it takes about $1,800 in materials for a do-it-yourselfer to build a dormer about 6 feet wide and 9 feet high, with one window. In addition to basic carpentry tools, the project requires a circular saw, a reciprocating saw, a framing square and 2- and 4-foot levels.
• Hiring someone to build a small dormer the width of a single- or double-wide window can run $2,500-$5,000 or more, depending on size, the slope of the roof, the strength of the existing roof support system and other factors. A larger, more room-size dormer can run $5,000-$20,000. Prices may vary considerably by region.
• These prices are generally for exterior work only; there will be additional costs for drywall, painting, flooring, carpets and other finishing work (total cost will depend a great deal on the type and quality of inside materials selected). Larger dormers are often the centerpiece of an attic remodeling project. Remodeling Magazine estimates that the average cost for a complete attic conversion with a 15-foot dormer plus bathroom (including finishing the interior) averages $40,800-$58,900 nationwide.

• To add a dormer, a hole is cut in the roof, the dormer frame is erected, then it's roofed, waterproofed and finished to match the rest of the house. A dormer can be built in place piece by piece, or it can be framed on the ground and lifted into place. A small dormer can usually be added in a day, but larger projects can take several days or more. The Family Handyman magazine offers free plans and instructions for a 6x9-foot dormer with a single window. BobVila.com provides a video showing the in-place construction of a third-floor dormer.
• Generally dormer windows should match the other windows, to give a uniform look. It's also important that the dormer look neither too large nor too small in comparison to the rest of the house. ThisOldHouse.com provides a photo gallery illustrating how to visually blend^[1] a dormer. RemodelorMove.com discusses nine different^[2] types of dormers and the house styles they go with best.
• Check with your local planning department to see whether your neighborhood has any building restrictions on dormers, to obtain a building permit for your project and to arrange for any required inspections.

• For do-it-yourselfers, working on a roof can be dangerous. The Family Handyman magazine recommends that do-it-yourselfers buy a personal fall arrest system for around $250 or rent one for about $35 a day. You might also want to use metal roofing brackets (about $8 each) and 2x10 planks to provide solid footing.

• ThisOldHouse provides photo galleries illustrating dormer types^[3] and dormer windows^[4] .
• Get several estimates, making clear what is (and isn't) included in each quote. Request and check references; ask about the contractor's length and type of experience; and be sure they're properly bonded, insured and licensed^[5] in your state. See if there are any complaints listed with the Better Business Bureau^[6] .
• RenovationExperts.com lists tips^[7] for hiring a contractor.

1.  www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/photos/0,,1211376,00.html#
2.  www.remodelormove.com/remodeling-and-home-improvement-articles
3.  www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/photos/0,,1211203,00.html
4.  www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/photos/0,,1211329,00.html
5.  www.contractors-license.org/
6.  us.bbb.org/WWWRoot/SitePage.aspx?site=113&id=46a6a9cd-5402-454e-9476-e4df22e6f371
7.  www.renovationexperts.com/beforehire.asp

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