Lehigh Acres, Florida · Lee County
Remodels & Additions in Lehigh Acres, FL
Premier Home Builds provides home remodeling and additions in Lehigh Acres, including kitchens, baths, bedroom additions, garage conversions and storm repairs, with Lee County permits and septic capacity handled correctly.
Remodeling and Expanding Homes in Lehigh Acres
Lehigh Acres has thousands of existing homes, from modest block homes built in the 1970s and 1980s to larger homes built during the housing boom of the early 2000s and newer homes built in the last decade. Many families love their location, their lot and their neighbors, but their home no longer fits. Maybe the kitchen is cramped, the bathrooms are dated or the family has grown. Home remodeling and additions in Lehigh Acres let you get the home you need without leaving the neighborhood you know.
Premier Home Builds handles remodeling projects of all sizes in Lehigh Acres. We manage design, Lee County permitting, septic evaluation where needed, construction and final inspections, with clear communication from start to finish.
Remodel and Addition Projects We Handle in Lehigh Acres
Kitchen Remodels
Older Lehigh Acres kitchens often have limited counter space, dark cabinets, soffits and closed-off layouts. Updating cabinets and counters, adding an island, improving lighting and opening the kitchen to the family room can make the whole home feel new.
Bathroom Remodels
Popular updates include replacing tub and shower combinations with walk-in showers, adding double vanities, upgrading tile and improving ventilation to fight humidity and mildew. We can also add accessibility features such as curbless showers, grab bars and comfort-height fixtures.
Bedroom and Suite Additions
When families grow, an added bedroom or a new primary suite can be the answer. In Lehigh Acres, additions often need extra attention to the septic system, because adding bedrooms can change the system’s required size.
Garage Conversions
Converting part or all of a garage into a bedroom, office or family room adds living space within the existing footprint. Conversions must meet habitable space requirements for insulation, emergency escape windows, electrical and HVAC.
Lanai and Screen Enclosure Projects
Adding a covered lanai, enclosing an existing patio with screens or replacing an older pool cage creates more outdoor living space. These projects require engineering for wind loads and permits.
Exterior Upgrades
New roofs, impact windows and doors, fresh stucco and paint, new garage doors and paver driveways can improve curb appeal, storm protection and energy efficiency.
Whole-Home Renovations
For homes that need extensive updates, we can coordinate a complete renovation, including systems, finishes and exterior work, in a single project.
Storm Damage Repairs
Hurricanes Irma and Ian both affected Lehigh Acres with strong winds and heavy rain. Roof damage, water intrusion, damaged screen enclosures and fallen trees are common storm-related repairs. We assess the damage, document it and permit the repairs.
Septic Systems and Additions in Lehigh Acres
Because so many Lehigh Acres homes rely on septic systems, additions that add bedrooms or bathrooms require special attention. Septic systems are sized for the expected wastewater flow of the home, which is typically based on the number of bedrooms and the home’s size. When you add a bedroom, the existing system may no longer be adequate.
Here is how we approach it:
- Locate and evaluate the existing system. We identify the tank and drain field and review available records.
- Determine requirements. Based on the proposed addition, we determine whether the existing system meets requirements or needs to be modified.
- Coordinate approvals. Changes to septic systems require approval from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, which oversees septic permitting.
- Plan the addition around the system. Additions cannot be built over the drain field and must maintain required setbacks from the tank and drain field.
- Budget accordingly. If the system needs upgrades, we include them in the budget from the start.
If your home is on central sewer, these concerns do not apply in the same way, though connection capacity and plumbing layout still matter.
Our Remodeling Process in Lehigh Acres
Consult on Goals, Budget and Timeline
We visit your home, talk about what you want to change and look at the existing structure, systems and site. We ask about your budget and timeline and whether you will stay in the home during construction.
Preliminary Budget
We provide a preliminary budget for the scope you have described. For additions, we include potential septic, electrical service and HVAC upgrades so there are no surprises later.
Design and Engineering
For simple remodels, design focuses on layout and selections. For additions and structural changes, we coordinate drawings and engineering and confirm Lee County setbacks.
Final Specifications, Selections and Construction Pricing
You choose finishes, and we provide a detailed scope and final construction price.
Permitting
We submit permits to Lee County and coordinate any septic approvals.
Construction
We protect your home, manage dust and debris, keep work areas secure and keep you updated on progress.
Walkthrough and Completion
We review the finished work with you, complete any punch-list items and provide care information for new products.
Remodeling by Era: Lehigh Acres Homes
Early Homes (1960s–1980s)
The earliest Lehigh Acres homes are typically modest block ranch homes. They may have smaller rooms, older electrical panels, galvanized or cast iron plumbing, single-pane windows and older septic systems. Remodels often include electrical and plumbing updates, impact windows, new roofs, kitchen and bath remodels and opening walls for a more modern layout.
1990s Homes
Homes from the 1990s often have vaulted ceilings, plant shelves, smaller kitchens and builder-grade finishes. Popular remodels include kitchen updates, bathroom remodels, flooring replacement and adding impact windows.
Boom-Era Homes (Early 2000s)
Lehigh Acres saw a tremendous wave of construction in the early 2000s. Many of these homes are now old enough to need new roofs, air conditioning systems, water heaters and possibly septic maintenance or repair. Finishes from that era, such as builder-grade cabinets and tile, are common candidates for updating.
Recent Homes
Newer homes may need fewer system updates but can benefit from added features such as pools, outdoor kitchens, extended lanais, garage storage and upgraded finishes.
Making a Lehigh Acres Home Stronger During a Remodel
A remodel is an ideal time to improve your home’s resilience. Upgrades worth considering include:
- Impact-rated windows and doors to protect openings without shutters.
- A new roof installed to current wind standards with a secondary water barrier.
- Improved roof-to-wall connections where accessible.
- A wind-rated garage door, which helps protect the entire structure.
- A generator connection or standby generator for outages.
- Improved drainage and grading around the home to handle heavy rain.
- Moisture-resistant materials in areas prone to water exposure.
Some of these improvements may qualify for wind mitigation insurance credits. Ask your insurance agent how they apply to your policy.
What Affects Remodeling Costs in Lehigh Acres
- Scope and size of the project.
- Structural changes, such as removing load-bearing walls or adding square footage.
- Hidden conditions discovered when walls, floors or ceilings are opened, more common in older homes.
- Septic system changes for additions that add bedrooms.
- Electrical service upgrades if the existing panel cannot support new loads.
- HVAC capacity for added square footage.
- Finish selections, such as cabinets, counters, tile and fixtures.
- Permit and engineering fees.
We include reasonable contingencies for older homes and communicate clearly if hidden conditions arise.
Living at Home During Your Remodel
Many Lehigh Acres families stay in their homes during remodeling. We help make that manageable by phasing work so essential spaces remain usable, installing dust barriers, keeping the site clean and secure at the end of each day and communicating clearly about water or power shutoffs. For larger projects, such as whole-home renovations, temporary relocation may be easier, and we can help you plan for it.
Remodel, Add On or Build New?
Some Lehigh Acres homeowners wonder whether it makes more sense to remodel their current home or build a new one on a different lot. Factors include the condition of the existing home, the cost of the planned improvements, the value of your current location, transaction costs of selling and buying, and your long-term plans. Because Lehigh Acres has many vacant lots, building new nearby is a real option. We can price both paths so you can compare with your own financial advisors.
Start Your Lehigh Acres Remodel or Addition
Ready to make your home work better for your family? Call (239)-898-1288 or use the form below to schedule a consultation.
More Lehigh Acres Services
If you decide to build new, explore our new home construction in Lehigh Acres, custom home builder services in Lehigh Acres, floor-plan homes in Lehigh Acres and lot and home packages in Lehigh Acres. Learn about our role as your general contractor in Lehigh Acres, read our Lehigh Acres area guide or see our remodels and additions overview.
Popular Lehigh Acres Remodel Ideas by Room
Kitchen
- Remove soffits above cabinets and install taller cabinets for more storage.
- Add a large island with seating and storage.
- Replace laminate counters with quartz or granite.
- Upgrade to energy-efficient appliances.
- Add under-cabinet and pendant lighting.
- Install a walk-in or cabinet pantry.
Bathrooms
- Replace a tub with a large walk-in shower.
- Install a double vanity with more drawer storage.
- Choose large-format porcelain tile for fewer grout lines.
- Add a quiet, properly vented exhaust fan to control humidity.
- Install comfort-height toilets and grab-bar blocking.
Living Areas
- Open walls between kitchen, dining and family rooms where structurally feasible.
- Replace carpet with tile or luxury vinyl plank.
- Add recessed lighting and ceiling fans.
- Install sliding glass doors to connect to the lanai.
Bedrooms
- Expand the primary suite with a larger closet and bathroom.
- Add built-in closet systems.
- Convert a bedroom into a home office with good lighting and data wiring.
Outdoor Spaces
- Add a covered lanai or extend an existing one.
- Install or replace a screen enclosure.
- Add a summer kitchen.
- Resurface the pool and replace the deck.
- Install pavers on driveways and walkways.
Garage
- Add epoxy flooring, cabinets and overhead storage racks.
- Install a wind-rated insulated garage door.
- Add a utility sink and extra electrical outlets.
- Convert part of the garage into a laundry room or workshop.
Each of these ideas can be done individually or combined into a larger renovation, depending on your goals and budget.
Working With Insurance After a Storm
If your Lehigh Acres home is damaged in a storm, document the damage with photos and contact your insurance company promptly. We can provide a detailed scope of repair work and pricing to support your claim, meet with adjusters when helpful and permit the repairs. We are not public adjusters and cannot negotiate claims on your behalf, but clear, accurate documentation from a licensed contractor can help the process move forward.
Adding Space Without Adding Stress
Room additions are one of the most valuable projects for a growing Lehigh Acres household, and many homes sit on lots with room to expand. A successful addition requires attention to details that are easy to overlook:
Setbacks and Lot Coverage
Lee County zoning sets minimum distances from property lines and may limit how much of the lot can be covered by structures. We confirm the buildable area before design begins.
Matching the Existing Home
An addition should look like it was always part of the house. That means matching roof pitch, roofing material, stucco texture, paint color, window styles and trim. Inside, flooring transitions and ceiling heights should feel natural.
Structural Tie-In
The addition must be properly connected to the existing home’s foundation, walls and roof. Roof tie-ins are critical for preventing leaks and resisting wind uplift.
Floor Elevation
If the home is in a flood zone, the addition may need to meet a higher floor elevation than the existing home. We plan transitions such as steps or ramps where needed.
Systems
New rooms need electrical circuits, lighting, outlets, air conditioning and sometimes plumbing. We evaluate whether the existing electrical panel and HVAC system can handle the added load, and we upgrade them if necessary.
Septic and Well
As discussed above, bedroom additions may require septic evaluation, and additional bathrooms affect both wastewater and water demand. We address these early.
Permitting and Inspections
Additions require full building permits and inspections at each stage, similar to new construction. We manage the process from submittal through final approval.
Planned carefully, an addition can give your family the space it needs while preserving everything you love about your Lehigh Acres home and neighborhood.
Aging in Place in Lehigh Acres
Many Lehigh Acres homeowners are retirees or plan to retire in their current homes. Remodeling for aging in place helps you stay safe, comfortable and independent as needs change. Common improvements include:
- Curbless or low-threshold showers with built-in benches and handheld shower heads.
- Grab bars in showers and near toilets, installed with proper blocking.
- Wider doorways and hallways for walkers or wheelchairs.
- Lever-style door handles and faucets that are easier to use.
- Slip-resistant flooring throughout the home.
- Improved lighting, including night lights in hallways and bathrooms.
- Zero-step entries from the garage or front door.
- Lower or pull-down storage in kitchens and closets.
These changes can be made gradually or as part of a larger remodel, and many also make the home more comfortable for visiting family and friends of all ages.
Helpful Guides
- The FEMA 50% rule explained
- Hurricane-resistant home features
- How to choose a general contractor
- Impact windows vs hurricane shutters
- Rebuild or repair after hurricane damage?
Browse all of our home building resources.
Questions & Answers
Frequently Asked Questions
Does adding a bedroom in Lehigh Acres affect my septic system?
It can. Septic systems are sized based on the number of bedrooms and expected water use. Adding bedrooms may require the existing system to be evaluated and possibly enlarged or modified, with approval from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. We check this early in planning.
Who issues remodeling permits in Lehigh Acres?
Because Lehigh Acres is unincorporated, Lee County issues building permits. Septic-related approvals involve the Florida Department of Environmental Protection for septic and the appropriate agency for well permits. We handle the permit process for you.
Can I convert my garage into a bedroom?
Garage conversions are often possible but must meet code for habitable space, including insulation, windows for emergency escape, ceiling height and HVAC. Flood zone, parking and septic considerations may also apply.
How much does a kitchen remodel cost in Lehigh Acres?
It depends on the size of the kitchen, the extent of layout changes and your choice of cabinets, counters and appliances. We provide a preliminary budget after visiting your home and discussing your goals.
Does the 50 percent flood rule apply in Lehigh Acres?
If your home is in a FEMA special flood hazard area, substantial improvement rules can apply when improvement costs reach 50 percent of the structure’s market value. Many Lehigh Acres homes are outside those zones, but we verify your home’s flood zone before planning.
Can you repair hurricane damage on my Lehigh Acres home?
Yes. We assess damage, document it, obtain permits and complete repairs such as roofs, windows, drywall, insulation, flooring and screen enclosures.
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