What NJ Homeowners Are Updating Most
New Jersey homes are always changing. Many houses in counties like Bergen, Monmouth, and Burlington are older. They need updates to fit modern living. Weather also plays a role. Our hot summers and cold winters, with constant freeze-thaw cycles, impact materials. Salt air near the shore also takes its toll. These factors push homeowners to renovate.
Updating your home adds comfort and value. It makes your space more functional. Here are the most popular home renovations NJ homeowners are doing right now.
Kitchen Remodeling: The Heart of the Home
Kitchens remain the top renovation project in New Jersey. They are central to daily life and entertaining. An updated kitchen significantly improves a home's feel and resale value. Many older NJ homes, whether a Colonial in Morris County or a Ranch in Ocean County, have closed-off or outdated kitchens. Homeowners want more open space and better function.
Common Kitchen Updates in NJ
- → Layout Changes: Opening walls between the kitchen and dining or living areas is common. This creates larger, more connected spaces. This is especially popular in older homes with smaller, segmented rooms.
- → Cabinet Replacement: New cabinets instantly refresh a kitchen. Shaker style cabinets are a consistent favorite. White or light gray finishes brighten the space.
- → Countertops: Quartz is very popular. It is durable and low-maintenance. Granite remains a strong choice for its natural look. Homeowners often choose lighter colors to reflect light.
- → Appliance Upgrades: Energy-efficient stainless steel appliances are a standard update. Induction cooktops are gaining popularity for safety and efficiency.
- → Lighting: Better lighting makes a kitchen more inviting. Under-cabinet lighting, pendant lights over an island, and recessed ceiling lights are common additions.
- → Flooring: Hardwood, engineered wood, and large format tiles are popular. They offer durability and a clean look.
NJ Cost Range: A mid-range kitchen remodel in New Jersey typically costs $25,000 to $55,000. A larger, high-end renovation with significant layout changes and premium materials can range from $55,000 to $80,000 or more.
Bathroom Remodeling: Comfort and Function
Bathrooms are vital spaces used every day. Updating them improves comfort and appearance. Many bathrooms in NJ homes, especially those built before the 1980s, are small and dated. Homeowners seek better layouts, modern fixtures, and easier maintenance. Aging in place is also a concern for many, driving changes like walk-in showers.
Popular Bathroom Renovations
- → Shower and Tub Conversions: Converting an old tub-shower combo to a spacious walk-in shower is a frequent request. Curbless showers are popular for accessibility and a sleek look. Adding a new freestanding tub is also common in master bathrooms.
- → New Vanities and Countertops: Larger vanities with double sinks are popular in master baths. Quartz and granite vanity tops are chosen for durability. Many homeowners opt for floating vanities to create a more open feel.
- → Tile Work: Large format porcelain or ceramic tiles are used for floors and shower walls. Subway tile remains a classic choice for shower surrounds. Heated floors are a luxury addition, especially in colder months.
- → Fixtures and Lighting: Modern faucets, showerheads, and energy-efficient LED lighting improve the bathroom's function and style. Upgraded exhaust fans are important for managing humidity, especially in older homes prone to moisture.
NJ Cost Range: A standard hall bathroom remodel in New Jersey typically costs $10,000 to $20,000. A larger master bathroom with premium finishes and layout changes can range from $20,000 to $35,000 or more.
Basement Remodeling: Adding Livable Space
Finishing or remodeling a basement is a smart way to add usable square footage without building an addition. This is very popular in NJ homes, from Split-Levels in Union County to Colonials in Middlesex County. Many older basements are unfinished or used for storage. Homeowners see the potential for a new family room, home office, extra bedroom, or even a rental unit (where zoning permits).
Key Basement Renovation Projects
- → Waterproofing and Moisture Control: This is crucial in NJ. Basements are prone to dampness. Proper drainage, sump pumps, and sealing are essential first steps. This protects your investment from our wet springs and heavy rains.
- → Framing and Insulation: Building out walls and insulating them creates comfortable, energy-efficient rooms. Spray foam insulation is often used for better performance.
- → Drywall and Flooring: Drywall creates finished walls. Durable, moisture-resistant flooring options like luxury vinyl plank (LVP) or engineered wood are common choices. Carpeting is also popular for comfort.
- → Adding a Bathroom or Wet Bar: A half or full bathroom significantly increases the basement's utility. A wet bar makes the space ideal for entertaining.
- → Egress Windows: If you plan to add a bedroom, egress windows are required by code. They provide a safe escape route and bring in natural light. This is a common requirement in NJ towns.
NJ Cost Range: Finishing an unfinished basement in New Jersey can cost $30,000 to $60,000 for a basic to mid-range finish. Adding a bathroom, kitchen, or more complex features can push costs to $60,000 to $75,000 or more.
Deck Construction and Renovation: Outdoor Living
Outdoor living spaces are important in New Jersey. Decks provide a place for entertaining, dining, and relaxing. Many existing decks on NJ homes are old, weathered, or too small. The harsh freeze-thaw cycles and shore salt air quickly degrade wood decks. This leads many homeowners to build new decks or replace old ones with more durable materials.
Popular Deck Projects
- → New Deck Construction: Building a brand new deck expands your usable outdoor space. Design options include multi-level decks, built-in seating, and pergolas.
- → Deck Expansion: Making an existing deck larger provides more room for furniture and gatherings. This is common for smaller older decks.
- → Material Upgrades: Replacing pressure-treated wood with composite decking is a frequent choice. Composite materials resist rot, insects, and fading. They require less maintenance. Ipe, a durable hardwood, is another premium option.
- → Railings: Modern aluminum or composite railings improve safety and appearance. Cable railings offer an unobstructed view, popular in homes with scenic backyards.
- → Permitting: Be aware that deck construction in NJ requires permits. Local building departments in towns across Monmouth, Sussex, and Gloucester counties enforce specific rules.
NJ Cost Range: A new pressure-treated wood deck in New Jersey can cost $15,000 to $25,000. Upgrading to a mid-range composite deck typically ranges from $25,000 to $40,000 or more, depending on size and features.
Choose a Local Contractor
These popular renovations offer significant benefits to NJ homeowners. They improve daily living and property value. When planning your project, choose a contractor familiar with New Jersey building codes and weather challenges. A local company understands the unique needs of our homes, from older Victorians to newer construction. They can help you make the best choices for your property.