What’s a New Jersey family to do when they are living in the perfect location, and they run out of space? Vertical and Horizontal home additions might just be the solution you’re looking for! When remodeling homes, homeowners often face the decision of whether to opt for top additions, involving the expansion of the upper floors, or horizontal additions, which extend the ground-floor footprint. Choosing the right home addition depends on the goals of the renovation and the available space.
When deciding to expand your home, the stress often comes from choosing whether to build upward or outward. Making the correct choice involves considering the advantages and disadvantages of each option.
Expanding your home can be planned in various ways, and it’s crucial to think about the inherent pros and cons of each option. Although the reason for the addition may guide the plan, the choice between building upward or outward is not always straightforward. In this context, Houseace construction experts provide a detailed explanation.
VERTICAL ADDITIONS
Expanding a house by going vertical is a smart way to add more space without increasing the overall size of the house on the ground. This kind of renovation means adding another floor, even if the property currently has one or two stories.
Going up means enlarging the existing top floor by adding large dormers to a pitched roof. Alternatively, you can create additional living space above an existing garage, porch, or wing of the house.
Advantages
No reduction in yard space.
No need to be concerned about setback limitations.
Easily comply with floor area ratio requirements.
Disadvantages
Zoning regulations often restrict vertical expansion.
Required staircases can reduce the additional square footage.
Significant and sometimes expensive modifications are needed for the existing structure.
HORIZONTAL ADDITIONS
Opting for horizontal expansion is the most commonly chosen option for renovations. This is because it expands the ground-floor level of the residence, often necessary for adding kitchens, family rooms, and bedrooms.
These additions require skillfully connecting the existing part of the residence with any new features. This creates a larger yet unified space that improves the livability and overall advantages of the dwelling.
Advantages
Less restructuring of the existing home is usually required.
Bump-outs can even eliminate the need for a new foundation.
Costs can often be kept much lower compared to vertical additions.
Disadvantages
Add-ons can take away from your yard space.
A zoning variance might be necessary due to regulations and property lines.
Floor-area-ratio restrictions can pose challenges.
Many homeowners consider a home addition when they need more room, contemplating options like expanding vertically or horizontally. Room additions are often sought after for top additions, and the design process plays a crucial role in creating a seamless extension to existing homes. Whether it’s expanding vertically by adding another story or horizontally to increase the ground-floor footprint, careful planning ensures the success of the home addition project.
No matter which of the options you take, it’s essential to work with a professional who understands both the structural and aesthetic requirements as well as local building codes to make certain that the addition you want is one that is permissible in your location.
If you are looking for assistance for your upcoming home renovation project at New America Constructionwe provide additions estimates for all NJ homeowners.
Call us for more information 973-804-9400
Find us in:
