How to Add a Laundry Room to a House

How to Add a Laundry Room to a House

A dedicated laundry room is one of the most practical and sought-after features in a home. Moving laundry out of a basement or closet and into a proper room with storage, a folding counter, and a utility sink transforms a chore into a much more pleasant experience. Here's how to add one to your home.

What You'll Need

Best Locations for a Laundry Room

  • Main floor near bedrooms: Most convenient — laundry is generated in bedrooms and bathrooms, so proximity reduces carrying distance.
  • Converting a closet: A large closet (at least 5'x5') can become a laundry closet with stacked washer/dryer. Requires plumbing and electrical access.
  • Basement: Most common existing location. Adding proper finishing, storage, and a folding counter transforms it into a real laundry room.
  • Garage: Practical if the garage is attached. Requires insulation and weatherproofing.
  • New addition: Building a dedicated laundry room as part of a home addition gives maximum flexibility in size and layout.

Phase 1: Planning and Permits

Adding a laundry room requires a permit if it involves new plumbing, electrical, or structural work. Check with your local building department. Key planning decisions:

  • Side-by-side vs. stacked washer/dryer: Side-by-side requires at least 5 feet of width; stacked requires only 2.5 feet but less capacity.
  • Gas vs. electric dryer: Gas dryers require a gas line; electric dryers require a 240V outlet.
  • Utility sink: Highly recommended — invaluable for hand-washing, soaking, and cleaning.

Phase 2: Rough-In Plumbing

A licensed plumber will install:

  • Hot and cold water supply lines for the washer
  • A drain standpipe for the washer drain (2" pipe, minimum 18" tall)
  • Hot and cold supply and drain for the utility sink (if adding one)

Locate the washer hookups as close to existing plumbing as possible to minimize pipe runs and cost.

Phase 3: Rough-In Electrical

Have a licensed electrician install:

  • A dedicated 20-amp circuit for the washer
  • A dedicated 30-amp 240V circuit for an electric dryer (or gas line for a gas dryer)
  • General lighting circuit
  • GFCI outlets near the utility sink

Phase 4: Framing and Drywall

Frame any new walls using 2x4 studs. Use the stud finder and laser level to ensure walls are plumb. Install moisture-resistant drywall. Tape, mud, and sand smooth.

Phase 5: Flooring

Install tile or LVP flooring — both are waterproof and easy to clean, essential in a laundry room. Tile with Red Devil tile grout for a classic look. Caulk all edges with GE silicone caulk.

Phase 6: Cabinets, Shelving, and Folding Counter

Install upper cabinets above the washer and dryer for detergent and supply storage. Install a folding counter — a simple butcher block or laminate countertop on brackets works perfectly. Add floating shelves for additional storage. Install a hanging rod for air-drying clothes.

Phase 7: Trim and Paint

Install baseboard molding with the miter saw and brad nailer. Use flexible peel-and-stick molding trim for a quick option. Fill nail holes with BONCART wood filler. Caulk all gaps. Paint with a moisture-resistant paint.

Pro Tips

  • A utility sink is one of the most valuable laundry room additions — don't skip it if space allows.
  • Install a floor drain if possible — it provides peace of mind in case of washer overflow.
  • A folding counter at the right height (36") makes laundry much more comfortable.
  • Good lighting is essential in a laundry room — you need to see stains clearly.
  • A dedicated laundry room on the main floor is one of the most requested features by home buyers.

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