How To Build a Tiny House

Learning how to build a tiny house requires extensive planning and research. This guide explains the steps for building your tiny home, from the planning and design stages to the construction and installation phase.

Written by Angela Bunt Updated 06/28/2024

Tiny homes have increased in popularity for several reasons, including affordability, environmental friendliness, and housing freedom. They also allow you to live a minimalist lifestyle and are more energy-efficient than larger homes while being less costly to build and maintain than traditional houses.

In this guide, we’ll explain the process of building a tiny house as a do-it-yourself (DIY) project, including the planning, design, and construction stages, and provide tips on how to save throughout the build.

Planning Your Tiny House Build

Key planning considerations such as setting a realistic budget, deciding between a tiny house on wheels (THOW) and a foundation house, and checking local zoning laws and building codes are important to finalize before starting construction. Consider creating or purchasing a detailed blueprint to help build your tiny house.

Setting a Realistic Tiny House Budget

The cost of a tiny house ranges from $30,000–$60,000, but the total cost will depend on the materials you use, the house design, and where you want to live. Here are some factors that will affect the cost of your tiny house:

Appliances: When building a tiny house, consider the costs of common appliances such as a refrigerator, stove, water heater, and washer/dryer combo. Expect to spend between $2,100 and $5,400 on these appliances, plus installation costs.
Building materials: Building materials for your tiny home will cost around $14,100–$54,800 and include lumber, insulation, roofing, windows, and doors.
Permits and inspections: Legal fees and construction laws will vary depending on your location. On average, building permits and inspections for a tiny house will cost between $400 and $2,300.
Tools: If you don’t already own the tools needed to build a tiny house, purchasing these items can add several thousand dollars to the project’s overall cost. Consider renting tools from a local home improvement store to decrease costs.
Utilities and systems: Include the costs of major home systems, such as your plumbing and electrical system, to your total installation costs. If you want to add off-grid solutions such as home solar panels to your home build, expect your upfront building costs to increase.

When estimating the cost of building a house, include a cushion of at least 10%–20% of your budget for unexpected expenses. For example, if you estimate the build to cost $40,000, set aside an additional $4,000–$8,000 for price increases or construction delays. By preparing for these costs, you’ll stay within budget and avoid dealing with an unfinished project.

*Cost data in this section via Angi and HomeGuide.

Choosing Between a THOW or Foundation House

There are two main types of tiny houses: a THOW and a permanent foundation house. Your choice will affect the design, materials, building process, permits, and long-term living arrangements.

Benefits of a THOW

If you decide to sell your tiny house, a THOW appeals to a broader market due to its portability.

Most areas have fewer regulations for a THOW than for permanent structures, which must follow strict building codes.

A THOW offers you the flexibility to move as needed.

Benefits of a Permanent Foundation House

Without the need to conform to road regulations, you can design a more spacious and personalized home.

Building on a foundation allows for the use of heavier, more durable materials.

A permanent foundation provides a stable living environment, which is beneficial in regions prone to extreme weather.

Before making a decision on the type of tiny house you want to build, consider your long-term lifestyle goals. If you want to travel and want a more sustainable home, consider a THOW. However, if you value space and want to create a more stable environment for you and your family, a tiny house on a permanent foundation may be a better option.

Designing Your Tiny Home

Designing a tiny home requires a considerable attention to detail, as the space constraints differ from a standard home. You should prioritize housing needs, such as certain appliances and effective storage solutions before thinking about design wants. Consider learning from existing tiny house floor plans and designs to maximize your space.

Space-Efficient Layout and Features

Maximizing limited square footage in a tiny house requires leaning on innovative design strategies. Here are a few ways to save space in your tiny home:

Built-in storage: Built-in shelves and cabinets can help utilize wall space. You can also install storage stairs that double as drawers or cabinets.
Multifunctional spaces: Design areas that serve more than one purpose. For example, a dining table can double as a workspace or a kitchen counter can transform into a dining area.
Vertical design: Install high shelves for less frequently used items. Hanging storage, such as ceiling-mounted racks or hooks, keeps items accessible yet out of the way.

Here are a few other ways to leverage space-saving features:

Fold-down desks and tables: Install tables or desks that can fold when not in use.
Hidden storage: Design furniture with hidden compartments, such as beds with under-mattress storage and sofas with built-in drawers.
Sleeping lofts: Elevate the sleeping area to create more living space below.

When thinking about space in your tiny home, the layout should reflect your priorities and lifestyle. For example, prioritize a well-equipped kitchen with ample counter space if you love cooking. If you work from home, create a workspace with high functionality.

Tiny House Utilities and Systems

Creating a safe and code-compliant utility system is one of the toughest parts of building your tiny house, and you may have to make several decisions regarding off-grid and grid-tied connections if you want to use solar energy.

Electricity

Off-grid electrical systems offer complete freedom from the utility but are more expensive than grid-tied systems, which connect to the local utility grid and offer more savings. If you choose off-grid living, consider installing solar panels paired with a battery storage system.

Heating and Cooling

Off-grid heating options include woodstoves, propane heaters, or solar thermal systems. For cooling, you can install energy-efficient windows, ventilation fans, or a mini-split system powered by your solar array. Opt for electric heaters and air conditioners if you have a grid-tied tiny house.

Water

Off-grid options include water harvesting systems, which collect and filter rainwater. You can install a water storage tank and a purification system to ensure clean water availability.

A grid-tied option involves connecting your tiny house to a municipal water supply. This offers consistent water pressure and quality but requires access to infrastructure.

Sewage

Composting toilets, ideal for off-grid living, break down waste into compost, eliminating the need for a septic system. These toilets require regular maintenance but significantly reduce water usage. For a grid-tied setup, connect your tiny house to a septic system or municipal sewer line. This option requires professional installation.

You can install some of these options yourself, but code-compliant utilities usually require professional design and installation.

Constructing Your Tiny House

The time it takes to build a tiny house depends on various factors, including your construction experience, availability of assistance, and whether you choose a THOW or fixed foundation build. Professional contractors can finish a tiny house build in about three months, while DIYers can complete a build in a year or more.

Steps to follow

Building the Tiny House Frame and Exterior

If you choose to build a THOW, follow this step-by-step guide:

Step #1: Construct the Trailer

Choose a trailer rated for the weight of your finished house. Consider the towing capacity, which should be equal to or greater than the weight of your house.
Install safety features, such as safety chains, electric brakes, and a breakaway system for towing.
Secure the trailer on a level surface before beginning construction.

Step #2: Build and Sheath Walls

Use pressure-treated lumber for the floor framing to prevent moisture damage.
Construct the wall frames using 2-by-6 pieces of wood. The extra width of the lumber provides more structural strength than two-by-fours.
Assemble the walls on the ground. Then, lift and secure them to the floor framing using tension ties.
Sheath the exterior with plywood or oriented strand board (OSB).
Apply a weather-resistant barrier, such as epoxy resin or polyvinyl acetate (PVA) paint, over the sheathing to protect against moisture.

Step #3: Install Windows and Doors

Cut openings in the sheathing that are slightly larger than the window or doorframe using a reciprocating saw.
Flash the openings with self-adhesive flashing tape to prevent water infiltration.
Install the windows and doors, ensuring they’re level and plumb.
Seal around the edges with exterior-grade caulk.

Step #4: Install the Roof

Construct the roof frame using rafters or trusses.
Apply sheathing to the roof frame using plywood or OSB.
Install a waterproof underlayment over the sheathing to provide an extra layer of moisture protection.
For ventilation, install ridge vents and soffit vents—these facilitate air circulation and prevent moisture buildup.

When building your tiny house, choose durable exterior materials, such as fiber cement siding, metal panels, or cedar shingles for increased weather resistance and longevity.

Steps to follow

Installing Interior Finishes and Systems

After construction is complete, address the interior finishes and systems.

Step #1: Utilities (Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC)

Review the layout to ensure efficient use of the space.
Run plumbing lines and electrical wiring through the framed walls, floors, and ceilings.
Install outlets, switches, and plumbing fixtures.

Step #2: Insulation

Use spray foam insulation for a tight seal and high R-value on the floor.
Use rigid foam or fiberglass batt insulation for your roof and walls.

Step #3: Moisture-Resistant Drywall

Hang drywall on the insulated walls and ceiling. Depending on the size of your tiny house, you’ll need 4-by-8 or 4-by-12 sheets with a thickness of 1/2 or 5/8 inches. For installation, gather a power drill, utility knife, drywall lifts, drywall knife, drywall screws, and sanding sponges.
With the drywall saw, cut openings for electrical outlets, switches, and fixtures.
Tape and mud the seams. Then, sand the surfaces for a smooth finish.

Step #4: Flooring

Check that the subfloor is level before laying the flooring. If you find high spots, sand them to minimize the height differences.
Install durable, moisture-resistant flooring material, such as vinyl planks, laminate, and engineered hardwood according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
After installing the floors, install the cabinetry and other built-in solutions.

DIYing Interior Finishes vs. Opting for Professional Assistance

Installing interior finishes on your own can help you save money, but complex tasks such as installing utilities may require professional assistance.

Here are a few tips for DIYing interior finishes:

Invest in quality tools: Good tools can make a significant difference in the quality of your work. Invest in a taping knife, mud pan, corner trowel, drywall saw, and sanding pole for this type of work.
Prep for safety: Wear safety glasses, gloves, and a mask, and follow safety guidelines when installing interior finishes.
Research: Use online tutorials and guides designed specifically for tiny house building to learn the steps involved in your project.

Don’t hesitate to seek advice from more experienced DIYers or ask for professional help if you see that you aren’t achieving the desired results.

If you opt for professional assistance, consider the following tips:

Check references and reviews: Verify the contractor’s work and reputation before hiring someone for the job.
Communicate regularly: Maintain open communication with your contractor and request updates on progress throughout the project.
Discuss project details: Clearly outline your expectations, budget, and timeline before work begins.
Inspect the work: Check the progress and quality of the work daily and raise any concerns or questions to the contractor as soon as possible.
Verify credentials: Make sure the contractor is licensed, insured, and bonded.
Request multiple quotes: Compare quotes from several contractors to find a professional that fits within your budget.
Review the contract: Ensure all aspects of the job are listed in the contract. Pay special attention to costs, timelines, and materials.

The main benefits of hiring professionals include time efficiency, warranty, and peace of mind, while performing the work on your own is often more cost-efficient.

Parking and Living in Your Tiny House

Once construction is complete, start thinking about where you want to park your tiny house. One of the most common issues tiny house homeowners face is finding a place to park their homes due to strict and confusing zoning codes. Research local zoning laws and check with your local government to ensure your house is compliant before settling down.

Finding a Legal Parking Spot for Your Tiny House

The main difference between a THOW and a foundation house is the need to park the former, but parking options and laws vary widely by location for both types of houses.

Check your local parking laws to make sure you aren’t leaving your home in an illegal place. Most homeowners can park their tiny homes in campgrounds, RV parks, or in a rented long-term parking spot in a local resident’s driveway or backyard. Additionally, most local governments have a minimum square footage requirement, so ensure your tiny home meets those requirements before parking it in the desired location.

The best way to determine where to park your new dwelling is to find a local tiny house-friendly community. You can also join homeowners who lead tiny house discussions on social media to get tips about your local THOW parking laws. Consider creating a solid parking plan before building your tiny home to avoid headaches later down the road.

Adjusting to Tiny House Living

If you’ve lived in a regular-sized home, adjusting to living in a tiny house may take some time. Here are a few tips to make the process a little easier:

Adopt a minimalist mindset. Focus on quality over quantity and avoid accumulating unnecessary items.
Define specific areas for sleeping, cooking, working, and relaxing to maintain a sense of order.
Downsizing before moving into your tiny home can help you get rid of unwanted items. Donate, sell, or recycle items that won’t serve a purpose in your new home.
Establish daily routines to keep your house tidy and organized.
Make your home as multifunctional as possible by using fold-out furniture.

The key to enjoying your tiny house living is regular maintenance and making sure your home stays organized and clean.

Our Conclusion

Building a tiny house can offer more financial freedom, increase sustainability, and eliminate the stress of owning a traditional home. Before you start building, remember to plan, budget, and design your house for your lifestyle and preferences, and plan for the project to take around a year to complete. Additionally, research tiny house laws and regulations in your area to avoid fines and headaches in the future.

If you’re keen on building a tiny home by yourself, consider tackling easier parts of the job, such as installing appliances and designing the space, and hire a professional to complete the more complicated aspects, such as installing utility lines and ensuring the home is up to code. Building a tiny house is achievable with the proper research, preparation, and hard work.

FAQ About Building a Tiny House

Is it cheaper to buy or build a tiny house?

It’s usually cheaper to build a tiny house than to buy one. However, building a new house can take around a year to complete. If you don’t have construction experience or the proper materials to build a tiny house, consider hiring a professional.

How much does it cost to build a tiny house?

The cost of building a tiny house ranges from $30,000–$60,000. The total cost will depend on the size of the home, the type of tiny home you choose to build, and the location of your new home.

How do I build a tiny house cheaply?

To build a tiny house cheaply, you can buy prefabricated kits or plans with all of the necessary instructions to complete the build and perform most of the work on your own. You can also try to save on materials by monitoring deals from local providers.

Are there tiny houses in Tennessee?

Yes, there are tiny houses in Tennessee. However, check your local regulations and zoning restrictions before buying or building a tiny house in Tennessee to ensure the home meets the local building standards.

What are the challenges of building a tiny house?

The challenges of building a tiny house are adjustments to space constraints, following building and zoning codes, and ensuring correct weight management for a THOW.

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