Want to build a tiny house? Here's everything you need to know in 30 seconds:
A tiny house typically costs:
- DIY Basic: $8,000-$30,000
- Average Build: $30,000-$70,000
- High-End: $100,000+
Core materials you'll need:
Component | Cost Range | Notes |
---|---|---|
Trailer | $3,500-$5,500 | For mobile builds |
Windows | $500-$6,000 | Energy efficient |
Roofing | $500-$2,000 | Metal recommended |
Insulation | $500-$3,000 | R-30 for roof |
Siding | $1,000-$2,500 | Weather resistant |
Lumber | $1,000-$5,000 | Framing materials |
Pro tip: DIY can save 50-60% on labor costs. But first:
- Check local building codes
- Secure permits
- Plan for utilities
- Add 10-20% buffer for unexpected costs
This guide covers everything from foundation to finishing touches, with detailed materials lists, cost breakdowns, and expert tips for each building phase.
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Base and Foundation
A solid foundation is crucial for your tiny house. Here's what you need to know:
Trailer Basics
Your tiny house journey starts with the right trailer:
- Dual-axle, flatbed design
- 8 feet wide (including wheels)
- 20 to 24 feet long
- 10,000+ pounds GVWR
- Two 5,000+ pound axles
Custom brackets welded to the frame can boost width and provide sturdy attachment points for the sub-floor.
Securing Your Tiny House
Use these to keep your house in place:
- Wheel jacks
- Roof ties
- Ground anchors
Want extra stability? Dig holes, stack blocks, and strap your trailer to them.
Moisture Protection
Keep water away from your foundation:
- Use waterproof membranes
- Install proper drainage
- Add gutters and downspouts
Insulating the Base
Choose from these insulation options:
- Rigid foam boards
- Spray foam
- Fiberglass batts
Leveling Your Home
You'll need these tools:
- 9-inch (or longer) level
- Hydraulic SUV jack
- Jack stands
- RV leveling blocks (like LynxLevelers, about $30)
Keep those tires off the ground to avoid flat spots and dry rot.
A level tiny house is a MUST. At the Decatur Tiny House Festival, one owner had to jack up their house seven inches on one side. That's why proper leveling matters.
Leveling Method | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|
2x6 boards under tires | Cheap, easy to find | Less precise, might shift |
RV leveling blocks | Easy to store, made for weight | Pricier |
Stabilizer jacks | Firm support | Need installation |
Check your house's level after a week, then again after a month. This ensures it stays stable as it settles in.
Frame and Support
Building your tiny house's structure needs smart planning and the right stuff. Here's what you need to know:
Wood for Framing
For your tiny house's bones, you'll need:
- 2x4s (walls)
- 2x6s (door and window headers)
- Modified 2x12s (roof rafters)
Want to fight rot? Use pressure-treated lumber where moisture might be an issue.
Floor and Walls
Use 2x6s for floor joists to keep things sturdy. For walls, space studs 16 inches apart. Want a lighter build? Try 24-inch spacing (but check local rules first).
Roof and Outer Shell
Make a rafter template to speed up roof framing. For the outer shell, spruce plywood is a solid choice.
Fasteners
Screws beat nails for most framing. Here's why:
Fastener | Good | Not So Good |
---|---|---|
Screws | Stronger grip, stay put | Less shear strength |
Nails | High shear strength | Can wiggle loose |
"Lay the wall down on the trailer when framing. Use the flat floor to keep everything straight", says Ryan Mitchell, tiny house builder.
Use ring shank nails AND screws for walls. It's the best of both worlds.
Building on wheels? Add Simpson Strongtie hurricane brackets and metal corner supports. They'll help your house handle wind and movement.
Remember: Every pound counts in a tiny house. Keep an eye on weight as you build.
Outside Materials
Your tiny house's exterior needs the right stuff. Here's what to consider:
Wall Covering
Your home's skin matters. Check out these options:
Siding | Good | Bad |
---|---|---|
Real Wood | Cheap, tough, flexible | Can warp |
Vinyl | Light, fights moisture, affordable | Can burn |
Metal | Lasts long, saves energy | Might dent |
Erik Markus, a tiny house pro, says: "Mix cedar lap siding with cedar trim for accents. Use vinyl triple-3 for the rest. Seal cedar with clear, oil-based stuff."
Pro tip: For cedar, show 3" to 3.5" max. Keeps things looking right.
Roof Materials
Metal roofs rock for tiny houses. Why?
- Last 50+ years
- Cut energy bills by up to 25%
- Come in different types
They cost $15,000 to $24,500, averaging $18,600. Pricier than asphalt, but last twice as long.
Doors and Windows
Pick doors and windows that fit your tiny house. Look for:
- Energy savers
- Good insulation
- Weather fighters
Weather Protection
Shield your tiny home:
- Put a moisture barrier behind siding
- Flash around windows and doors
- Seal exposed wood
Outside Trim
Trim finishes the look. Try:
- Cedar for rustic vibes
- Vinyl for easy care
- Metal for modern style
Alice H., a DIY tiny house builder, shares: "I'm using plywood board and batten. Later, I'll add a rainscreen with horizontal siding."
Temperature Control
Keeping your tiny house comfy isn't rocket science. But it does need some planning. Let's break down insulation, moisture control, and airflow:
House Insulation
Insulation is your tiny house's cozy sweater. Here's a quick look at your options:
Insulation Type | R-value per inch | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|---|
Closed cell foam | 7.0 | High R-value, blocks moisture | Pricey |
Open cell foam | 3.5 | Seals air leaks | Not great with moisture |
Fiberglass batt | 3.1 | Cheap | Meh on air/moisture protection |
Ryan Mitchell, a tiny house pro, says:
"Between my solar panels and insulation, I have not had to pay a power bill for the last eight years, so trust me when I say it's game changing."
Aim for R-30 in the roof and stick to local codes for walls.
Moisture Barriers
Water damage? No thanks. Here's how to avoid it:
- Weather barriers: Plastic sheets outside
- Vapor barriers: Plastic inside (careful in hot spots)
Seal around doors, windows, and outlets with Zip Panels and foam.
Air Flow
Fresh air is key. Try these:
- Cross ventilation: Windows on opposite walls
- Roof vents or turbines: Let hot air out
- Exhaust fans: Kick moisture out of bathrooms and kitchens
Tight on space? Check out the Panasonic FV-04VE1 WhisperComfort ERV. It fits above a shower.
Draft Prevention
Leaky house? Not on our watch:
- Do a blower door test
- Use caulk for tiny gaps, foam for bigger ones
- Put house wrap under your siding
Here's a pro tip: A well-sealed house with okay insulation often beats a leaky house with top-notch insulation.
Water Systems
Setting up water systems in your tiny house? Here's what you need to know:
Pipes and Drains
PEX tubing is your best friend for water supply lines. It's flexible, freeze-resistant, and a breeze to install. Use red for hot, blue for cold. For drains? 2" PVC pipes do the trick.
Here's a basic setup:
Item | Quantity | Cost |
---|---|---|
25-foot roll of RED PEX | 1 | $13.78 |
25-foot roll of BLUE PEX | 1 | $13.78 |
Right-angle elbow push fittings | 5 | $51.40 |
Tee-style push fitting | 1 | $13.45 |
20 feet schedule 40 PVC drain line | 1 | $11.56 |
Sinks and Taps
Space is tight, so choose compact fixtures. A kitchen faucet? About $106. Shower faucet? Around $90. Don't forget low-flow options to save water.
Water Heater
Tankless water heaters are tiny house favorites. They're compact and give you hot water on demand. Two options:
- Cost: $550
- Outdoor installation, freeze prevention, 5.3 GPM flow rate
- Cost: $1,290
- Made for RVs and tiny houses, self-adjusts to water flow and temp
On a budget? The Eccotemp EM-7.0 Mini Storage Tank Water Heater holds 7 gallons and costs $230.
Compost Toilet
Compost toilets are often the way to go, especially off-grid. Two popular choices:
- Separett Villa: Nearly $1400
- Nature's Head: Under $1,000
"After one year of using the Nature's Head composting toilet, we have no complaints. In fact, is it weird to say we've actually become good at using it?" - Jenna Spesard, Tiny House Giant Journey
Used Water System
For gray water, consider a holding tank or a system for irrigation reuse. But check local rules first!
Power Setup
Setting up a safe electrical system for your tiny house is crucial. Here's what you need to know:
Wires and Cables
Romex is a popular choice for tiny house wiring. You'll need:
- 14 gauge for lights
- 12 gauge for outlets
- 10 gauge for high-power appliances
A 250-foot Romex roll costs about $42.65.
Power Box and Plugs
Your breaker box is the electrical system's core. A typical setup includes:
Item | Quantity | Cost |
---|---|---|
Breaker Box | 1 | $43.67 |
Standard Breakers | 10 | $4.18 each |
GFCI Breakers | 2 | $46.15 each |
AFCI Breakers | 1 | $52.31 |
Outlets/Switches | 15 | $14.49 each |
Outlet/Switch Covers | 15 | $0.49 each |
Most tiny houses use a 30-amp RV plug or a twist-lock 120-volt input. This handles higher draws like blenders or small AC units.
Lights
LED lights are the go-to for tiny houses. They sip power:
- Ceiling fan: 25 watts
- 5 LED lights: 35 watts total
LED puck lights cost about $29.43 for a set of three.
Solar Power Parts
Going off-grid? You'll need:
- Solar panels (6+)
- 4-8 kWh battery
- 5,000W inverter
- Charge controller
A complete solar system typically runs $15,000 to $25,000.
Power Storage
Battery options include:
- Lithium-ion: Pricey but long-lasting
- Lead-acid: Cheaper, shorter life
- Gel cell: Middle ground, no off-gassing
Keep batteries in a temperature-controlled area to prevent freezing.
"I bought a 200-watt system for Jolene at half the price I paid for the system in my current tiny house." - Tiny House Owner
This quote shows how solar costs have dropped, making it more budget-friendly for tiny house builders.
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Inside Finishing
Wall Covering
Plywood is a budget-friendly wall option for tiny houses. At about $15 for a 4' x 8' sheet, you can cover your interior for $250-$500. It's easy to work with and paint to match your style.
Floor Types
Laminate flooring balances cost and durability, costing under $1 per square foot. Total costs range from $300 to $500. But watch out for moisture-prone areas.
For bathrooms and kitchens, go with vinyl flooring. It's waterproof, durable, and can look like wood. Über Tiny Homes likes Karndean:
"Our favourite vinyl flooring is a design product popular with architects called Karndean."
These loose-lay planks have gripping tech for easy, glue-free installation.
Storage Units
In tiny houses, space is gold. Try these storage ideas:
- Turn stairs into shelves
- Use corner shelves
- Add pull-out cabinets
- Build storage under stairs
@paradisetinyhomes on Instagram suggests:
"Consider converting a portion of your stairs into shelving. This minor change is both practical and beautiful."
Work Surfaces
Countertop materials have different pros and cons:
Material | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|
Tiled | Easy to maintain | Grout collects dirt |
Cobblestone | Unique look | Uneven, hard to clean |
Galvanized steel | Durable | Shows wear |
A tiny house fan notes about metal countertops:
"I actually think it adds an awesome patina to the surface and shows that the house is well-lived-in and well-loved, but it's not necessarily the sleek look I first imagine when I think of metal countertops."
Space Savers
Make the most of your tiny space:
- Use storage ottomans
- Hang kitchen items on hooks
- Install Trusscore SlatWall (holds 75 lbs/sq ft)
- Use floating shelves to keep floor space open
Safety Items
Safety is key in tiny house building. Here's what you need:
Fire Safety
Install smoke detectors in the kitchen, sleeping areas, and living spaces. Replace them every 8-10 years.
Keep fire extinguishers handy:
Location | Extinguisher Type | Rating |
---|---|---|
Kitchen | Multi-purpose | 2-3A40BC |
Main Exit | Multi-purpose | 1-10A60BC |
Exterior | Larger capacity | 6A80BC |
Safety Alarms
Add carbon monoxide (CO) and propane gas detectors. Put CO detectors at eye level and propane detectors near the floor.
Exit Planning
Design multiple exit points:
- Main door
- Large, operable windows (at least 20" wide and 24" high)
- Roof hatch or skylight in loft areas
Make sure all exits are easy to use.
First Aid Kit
Stock a first aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, tweezers, scissors, and emergency contacts. Check and restock regularly.
Tools List
Building a tiny house? You'll need these tools:
Basic Tools
Every builder needs these:
- Carpenter's pencil ($1-$5/pack)
- Tape measure ($20-$40)
- Chalk line ($9-$15)
- Level ($8-$50+)
- Speed square ($6-$20)
- Hammer ($10-$50)
These handle most tasks and won't break the bank.
Electric Tools
Power tools make life easier:
Tool | Price | Notes |
---|---|---|
Impact driver | $100-$300 | You'll use this A LOT |
Circular saw | $100-$300 | For cutting everything |
Drill | $50-$200 | Nice to have |
Reciprocating saw | $100-$300 | Demolition work |
Jigsaw | $40-$200 | Curved cuts |
Splurge on the impact driver and circular saw. You won't regret it.
Measuring Tools
Get it right:
- Tape measure (see above)
- Plumb bob ($6-$10)
- Calipers
- Squares
Safety Gear
Don't skimp here:
- Hard hat
- Safety glasses
- Ear protection
- Gloves
- Respirator
- Sturdy boots
- Reflective gear
Your health is worth it.
Special Tools
Nice-to-haves:
- Chop saw ($120-$650)
- Nail gun ($80-$400)
- Table saw ($120-$1,000+)
These make building easier, but aren't must-haves.
Storage Tips
Storing your tiny house materials properly can make or break your build. Here's how to keep everything safe and organized:
Rain Protection
Water's your enemy here. Keep your stuff dry:
- Stack wood on bricks. Leave 4 inches underneath for air.
- Use tarps, but don't seal them tight. Let the wood breathe.
- Got a moisture meter? Use it. If wood's over 19% wet, let it dry before building.
"Think about storing materials before you start your new home." - Tim Carter, AsktheBuilder.com
Parts List
Don't lose track of your stuff:
- Use an inventory system. Know what's where.
- Label everything. Seriously, everything.
- Make a spreadsheet. Track quantities, locations, and when you use things.
Work Site Setup
Set up your site smart:
Zone | What It's For | Pro Tip |
---|---|---|
Materials | Storing supplies | Keep the stuff you use most up front |
Tools | Organizing gear | Pegboards are your friend |
Work | Building | Keep it clear for what you're doing now |
Waste | Trash and recycling | Separate bins make cleanup easier |
Moving Materials
Don't break your back:
- Get a hand truck for big stuff.
- Utility carts are great for multiple items.
- For the really heavy stuff? Maybe rent a forklift.
Green Building
Building a tiny house? Here's how to make it eco-friendly:
Used Materials
Save money and reduce waste with second-hand items:
- Check salvage yards for doors, windows, and flooring
- Browse Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace
- Ask local contractors about leftover materials
"Our reclaimed wood siding gives our tiny home warmth and character we couldn't get with new materials." – Lucas, tiny house owner.
Power Saving
Cut energy use:
- Install large windows and skylights for natural light
- Use LED bulbs
- Choose high-efficiency appliances made from recycled materials
Good Wood
Pick responsible wood sources:
- FSC-certified lumber ensures sustainable practices
- Bamboo flooring grows fast and is strong
- Reclaimed wood offers a unique look
Safe Finishes
Avoid toxic chemicals:
- Use low-VOC or zero-VOC paints
- Try natural oils like linseed or tung for wood
- Choose water-based polyurethane for floors
New Materials
Earth-friendly building options:
Material | Benefits | Best Uses |
---|---|---|
Hempcrete | Absorbs CO2, insulates well | Walls, insulation |
Straw bales | Great insulation, cheap | Wall construction |
Rammed earth | Low energy to produce, durable | Walls, foundations |
Money Planning
Building a tiny house? Let's talk money.
Cost Groups
Break down your expenses:
Category | Examples |
---|---|
Materials | Lumber, insulation, roofing |
Labor | Contractors, electricians, plumbers |
Land | Purchase or rental fees |
Utilities | Water, electricity, sewage hookups |
Permits | Building permits, inspections |
This helps you track spending and find savings.
Amount Planning
How much do you need?
1. Research average costs
Typical tiny house: $30,000 to $60,000.
2. Get quotes
Ask suppliers and contractors for estimates.
3. Add a buffer
Tack on 10-15% for surprises.
Extra Materials
Order 10% more than you think you'll need. It covers mistakes and changes.
Other Options
Cut costs with:
- Salvage yards for windows and doors
- Recycled wood for siding or flooring
- Prefab tiny house kits (starting at $4,000)
Money Saving
Want to save big?
- DIY to slash 30-60% off labor costs
- Use a trailer ($4,500 to $9,000) instead of a foundation
- Go smaller: 200 sq ft averages $30,000, while 600 sq ft can hit $100,000
Remember: smaller doesn't always mean cheaper. Plan smart!
Wrap-Up
Let's recap the key materials for your tiny house and where to find them:
Must-Have Materials:
- Trailer or foundation
- Framing lumber
- Insulation
- Roofing
- Siding
- Windows and doors
- Electrical and plumbing supplies
Where to Get Your Stuff:
1. Big Box Stores
The Home Depot sells Tiny Home Frame Kits. Free shipping on some products.
2. Tiny House Specialists
The Tiny House Shop has small-space appliances, solar kits, and furniture.
3. Salvage Yards
Local junkyards = cheap recycled materials.
4. Online
Try Craigslist, Amazon, and eBay for deals.
5. Local Sales
Hit up garage sales and Habitat Restore.
Save Some Cash:
- Start collecting early
- Use reclaimed wood
- Go for energy-efficient windows and appliances
Remember: Plan carefully and stay organized. Your wallet will thank you.