Home renovation… it’s all about direction.
That might seem like a philosophical statement, but we’re actually being literal!
Because the question that often arises is: Is it cheaper to build up or out? Homeowners planning renovations often struggle with this decision as they balance their budget with their space needs.
Today we’re taking a closer look at whether building up or out is the more cost-effective choice.
Building Up: What You Need to Know
Building up is a popular option when it comes to home additions. It involves adding another floor or expanding the current structure vertically. There are three main things to consider when thinking about building up:
- Structural reinforcements needed
- Impact on existing systems like plumbing and HVAC
- Zoning laws and restrictions
Structural Reinforcements Needed
When you build up, one of the first things to think about is whether your home’s foundation can support the extra weight. In many cases, structural reinforcements are required, which can add to the overall cost.
You may need to hire an engineer to assess the current state of the foundation. If the foundation is strong, building up could be a cost-effective home remodeling option. However, if it needs reinforcement, it can quickly become expensive.
Impact on Existing Systems
Building up often means adjusting key systems in your home, such as plumbing, electrical wiring, and HVAC. Adding a second story will likely require updates to these systems, which adds to the complexity and cost of the project.
For instance, you may need to extend your heating and cooling systems to the new level, or install new electrical wiring to support additional rooms.
Zoning Laws and Restrictions
Local zoning laws can also impact whether you’re able to build up. Depending on where you live, there may be height restrictions or neighborhood rules that limit how high you can go.
It’s a good idea to check these regulations before starting any project to ensure you’re able to follow through with your plans. In some areas, these restrictions might make building up less appealing compared to building out.
Building Out: Key Considerations
Building out is another option to expand your home. The approach involves adding space horizontally at the ground level. While it may seem more straightforward than building up, there are important things to keep in mind.
Three core factors often shape the cost and feasibility of building out:
- Land availability and foundation costs
- Zoning laws and property lines
- Impact on outdoor space and layout
Land Availability and Foundation Costs
One of the first things to consider when building out is whether you have enough space on your property. Expanding outward requires additional land, which can be a problem if your lot size is small or if your yard space is limited.
The foundation for the new addition is another big cost factor. Unlike building up, where you may be able to use the existing foundation, building out requires new foundation work. It can increase the overall home expansion costs, especially if the soil or terrain isn’t ideal.
Zoning Laws and Property Lines
Just like with building up, zoning laws can play a big role in determining whether you can build out. Cities and towns often have regulations on how much of your property you can build on, and how close you can get to your property lines.
Before starting any project, it’s a good idea to check with your local authorities to ensure that your plans comply with these rules. Failing to do so could result in costly delays or even having to rethink your renovation.
Impact on Outdoor Space and Layout
Another thing to consider is the effect building out will have on your outdoor space. Adding more square footage horizontally can take away from your yard or garden, which may be an issue if you value outdoor living areas.
It could also impact the layout of your property, making it feel smaller. On the other hand, if you have plenty of land, building out can be a great way to add space without affecting your current structure too much.
Home Renovation Budget: Build Up vs Build Out
Building up often requires structural reinforcements to support the extra weight of a second or third floor. These reinforcements can add significant expenses to the project.
On the other hand, building out requires more foundation work, which can also be costly. While it may seem like expanding horizontally could be cheaper, the cost of the foundation, along with any necessary land adjustments, might make it more expensive than expected.
Impact on Existing Structures
Building up can mean making changes to your home’s roof, plumbing, and electrical systems. The adjustments can increase labor costs, as workers need to ensure that everything is properly extended to accommodate the new space.
Building out may not affect these systems as much, but it can lead to the loss of outdoor space and could disrupt your yard or garden. Depending on what matters most to you, either option might be more appealing based on how it impacts your current property.
Long-Term Value and Resale Potential
Both building up and building out can add value to your home, but the impact on resale may vary. In areas where land is limited, building up might increase your home’s appeal because it adds square footage without reducing yard space.
Building out could add more livable space on a single level, which may appeal to certain buyers, especially those who prefer not to deal with stairs. \
Is It Cheaper to Build Up or Out?
In the end, the answer to “Is it cheaper to build up or out?” depends on your home’s structure, available space, and budget. Both options have their benefits and challenges, so carefully consider your needs before deciding.
At Higgason Construction, we proudly serve Sammamish and the surrounding areas, offering high-quality home improvement services. Our focus is on craftsmanship, professionalism, and communication, ensuring a seamless process from design to completion. We’re dedicated to bringing your vision to life, working closely with you to deliver reliable and exceptional results that enhance your home.
Get in touch today to find out how we can help with your home renovation!