Upgrades, splurges, step-ups—whatever you call them, they’re often not included in a project unless they’re clearly specified on your plans or communicated directly to your contractor. Think of it like going from a base model car to one that’s fully loaded. 🏎 > 🚗

For us, “fully loaded” meant choosing spray-foaming the exterior envelope over batt insulation, metal roofing instead of asphalt shingles, and running heat cables under our bathroom tiles. These decisions didn’t just add comfort—they enhanced the functionality and longevity of our home.

One of the upgrades that stands out the most? Heated floors in the bathrooms. Let’s break down what it actually cost:

For two bathrooms (each about 25 square feet):

• Ditra dimple board: $740

• Heat cable: $898

• Scratch coat & installation: $250

• Electrician materials & labor: Estimated $2,500

TOTAL: Around $4,388 for both bathrooms.

In the grand scheme of building a home, this cost was a small percentage of the overall budget. And let me tell you—it was worth every penny. Waking up on cold mornings to warm tiles underfoot is pure luxury, especially when your bathrooms are built over a slab-on-grade foundation. Beyond indulgence, the heated floors also act as a secondary heating source, making the space cozy year-round. 🔥

So, what do you think? Are heated floors an upgrade you’d consider, or would you opt to live without them?