When planning to build a home addition, you can either add on top of the existing structure or build outward. There are pros and cons to each approach, according to the home builders at Santoro Home Improvements. The Hamden, CT-based company presents this guide to help you determine the best option for your family.

Building Out

As the name suggests, building out involves expanding within your property’s available square footage. These projects are ideal for adding space to a kitchen or building an additional bathroom or sunroom. The biggest advantage of building out is the construction process tends to be less disruptive. However, you will lose outdoor space. If the yard is already on the small side, building out could be impractical or even impossible. Local zoning laws pose restrictions on how much open space homeowners must have between the house and the property line.

Building Up

Building up means adding a story to the home. As part of the process, the home builder may suggest reinforcing the foundation to support the weight of an additional level. With building up, you may face challenges if zoning restrictions limit permissible height in your locale. If local codes permit building up, however, you’ll benefit from more room inside without losing valuable yard space.

General Contractors on Which Option Is Better

While both options have advantages, the choice ultimately depends on your individual preference and situation. Research the zoning laws in your area and consult with a home builder about which option will fit your budget and fulfill your family’s needs.

Whichever option you choose, the home builders at Santoro Home Improvements will be happy to handle the project. They specialize in remodeling and restorative work and will design a beautiful and functional home addition that makes the best use of your property’s space. For further information about their services, call (203) 287-9787 or visit their website.