Basement Remodeling vs. Aboveground Additions

Two of most popular ways to expand the livable space in your home are creating aboveground additions and remodeling existing basements. Both options have their advantages and particular challenges, as you’ll see.

Above-Ground Additions

Constructing an above-ground addition is likely the first options that come to mind if you’re thinking about expanding the square footage of your home. There are major obstacles standing between you and a finished addition, however. For one, they can be very expensive, once you factor in the costs of materials and labor. However, you are likely to recoup your expenses when you sell your home because an addition that matches the house’s design and adds both functionality and space to your home will increase its value. Of course, you probably want to utilize your addition before you put the house up for sale. In fact, your new room has the potential to accommodate your growing family by becoming a new bedroom, a use which may save you the time, hassle, and money that might otherwise be spent looking for and buying a larger home.

Above-Ground Additions

While constructing an addition to your home may sound like an exciting and useful idea, you also need to consider common issues that can arise during and after construction. As most homeowners probably know, you should thoroughly research any contractors you hire by requesting references and perhaps checking out online reviews. Putting in the time it takes to choose a quality contractor can save you stress and money later on. Doing your research can also pay off when you address the need for a construction permit to add to your house. Another issue to keep in mind is the clutter in your yard during the construction – and the reduced yard space once the addition is completed. If you value your yard above the idea of an above-ground addition, it may not be the solution for you.

Basement Remodeling

If you’re looking for a quicker solution, you may want to consider basement remodeling. If your home has a basement, you probably use it mainly for storage purposes, but by refinishing the room, you’ll be able to use it as virtually any type of room you can dream of. The process can be quicker and less expensive than above-ground additions because you already have the floor, walls, and ceiling in place. Plus, you won’t need to infringe on your current yard space to expand your home’s livable space.

Basement Remodeling

Basement remodeling also comes with its own set of challenges. As with above-ground additions, you’ll need a permit to refinish your basement, and you’ll have to choose whether to approach the project yourself or to hire a contractor. However, finishing the basement involves dealing with a cool, damp environment, so you’ll need to waterproof your basement and address heating issues by installing insulation.

No matter which option you choose, you can expand your livable space to include a new bedroom, a hobby room, a personal gym, or even a home office – any of which can increase the value of your home.