There are really two options for adding a room addition to your home: to build out or to build up. Sometimes this is dictated by the intended use for the addition. For example, kitchen additions will most likely invariably go out. It may also be governed by your lot layout with zoning restrictions, etc. Usually, there is more than one way to design an addition. Therefore, having an on-staff architect to show various designs, if necessary, has been an invaluable asset.
Building OUT
The majority of additions do involve increasing the square footage or footprint of the first floor level of the home. Kitchens, family rooms, master bedroom suites are popular additions. They work nicely as first floor additions if your lot allows for the extra square footage. The main consideration in building out is whether or not there are zoning restrictions. So, it’s important to have a contractor that is highly experienced in working with all local municipalities relative to obtaining zoning variances.
What’s the Pros/Cons:
Typically your contractor will excavate an area in your yard for the addition. This is for installing a foundation or slab, and then construct the addition on site to the point that the addition is “under roof”. This portion of construction will not interrupt everyday living within your home. After this point, they will then cut the opening for access to the rest of your home. Building out typically involves the least disruption to the existing space and to your life. However, building out will entail losing some of your yard; but the payout in the end is well worth the loss of yard space.
Building UP
Building up allows for adding square footage to your home without expanding the footprint of your home. Options can be adding another story or installing large dormers in a pitched roof to gain valuable living space. Another great option is adding living space above a garage or porch. Building up is usually a very good option for adding bedrooms or additional bathrooms. Second story additions are also great options for adding theater rooms and home offices because they are removed from the main living area.
What’s the Pros/Cons:
You do not have to give up any square footage or footprint from your available yard space. There is no need for building new foundations or slabs which saves money with this respect of the project. Well-done second story additions can also add beautiful curb appeal to an otherwise straight line exterior. However, with a building up scenario, there is the potential for a longer interruption to everyday living within the interior of your home. This is because the contractor may have to cut into walls and ceilings in the space below to beef up the structural supports and feed in the electrical, plumbing and heating lines. This interruption is very short lived when the project is well planned so this impact is usually minimal.
Whether you decide to build up or out, Shakespeare is here for you. We are a full service remodeling company with experience and expertise to create the perfect room addition for you. Contact us today for your free estimate if you’re interested adding a room addition to your home in Lancaster, PA.