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Materials Lists for House Plans: What They Are & How to Get One

Woman holding house plan documents and speaking with a contractor wearing a yellow hard hat at a home construction site framed in wood.
When you're getting ready to build, having a clear plan makes all the difference—and that includes knowing what materials your project requires. A materials list gives you a breakdown of the major items needed to build your chosen house plan. It helps you plan ahead, cut down on guesswork, and communicate more easily with your builder or suppliers.
We offer materials lists for nearly every single-family home, multi-family design, ADU, and garage plan on our site. Whether you're building as drawn or with a few changes, a materials list is one of the most useful tools you can have.

What Is a Materials List?

A materials list is a detailed, plan-specific document that outlines the construction materials needed to build your home. It’s useful for getting cost estimates, ordering supplies, talking through details with contractors, and staying organized and avoiding delays.

What's Included?

Materials lists give you a general breakdown of the major components needed to build your home. They’re specific to your plan and typically reflect either the original version or the version you’re building from.
Materials Lists are prepared based on the plan as drawn. They are delivered digitally (timing varies by provider) and do not include pricing or brand names. Additionally, structural and engineering components may not be included.

Need a Custom List of Materials for a Modified Plan?

If you’ve made floor plan changes, we can create a custom materials list based on your final, modified plan.Custom List of Materials are:
  • Ordered as an upgrade after modified plans are delivered
  • Tailored to your personalized version of the plan
  • Typically delivered within 5–7 business days

Sample List of Materials

Note: The sample shows a List of Materials prepared by Architectural Designs. It may differ from designer-prepared Materials Lists.

How to Order a Materials List

You’ll find available materials lists in the Optional Add-Ons dropdown on each plan page. If one is listed, just select it and add it to your order.
Already purchased your plan? No problem. Contact us and we’ll help you get the right one for your build.

FAQs About Materials Lists

Can I use a materials list to get a cost estimate from my builder or supplier?

Yes. Builders and suppliers often use materials lists as a starting point for quotes or orders. Keep in mind that prices vary by region, so quantities may be adjusted or alternatives suggested based on local availability and budget.

Do materials lists include brand names or specific product recommendations?

No. Materials lists usually include generic categories (e.g., “2x6 studs” or “asphalt shingles”). Your builder or supplier can help you choose specific products based on your location and budget.

Do materials lists include prices?

No. They list quantities and types of materials, but not pricing. For cost estimates, share your list with your builder, supplier, or local lumberyard—they can provide current prices based on your choices and location.

Categories

Getting Started

Author

Ana Coddington

Ana brings deep industry experience and leads special projects focused on improving the customer experience.

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