Smart home technology integration during a renovation is dramatically cheaper than retrofitting later. This thread covers 2026 options and costs.
Network Infrastructure
Running CAT6 ethernet throughout a home during renovation (before drywall): $1,500-$4,000 for a full house. Wired network is increasingly expected by GTA buyers due to Wi-Fi dead zones in large homes. Cost during reno is 20-30% of the retrofit cost.
Smart Lighting
Lutron Caseta system (10-15 switches): $1,500-$3,500 installed. Full Lutron HomeWorks: $8,000-$25,000. Smart dimming adds comfort and energy savings.
The Best Smart Home Investment: Rough-In
Electrical conduit in walls, extra junction boxes, and cable chases during construction: $500-$2,000. Enables any system to be added later without opening walls. Best ROI in smart home planning.
LF Builders coordinates electrical and tech rough-in during renovations: https://lfbuilders.ca
Share smart home integration experiences at https://home.renovation.reviews