A lot of factors must go into deciding a home addition’s size and orientation. Home addition projects can be built horizontally by expanding the ground floor outward or vertically by adding onto the second floor, and there are advantages and disadvantages of each. If you’re considering a home expansion project, keep the following information in mind.

Building Up or Out When Adding to Your Home

Horizontal Additions

Most home additions are built horizontally onto ground-floor buildings because they tend to be easier and more economical than building up. Practically any room can be added to a first floor. A contractor will need to dig and create a new foundation for the addition before building the walls and roof and combining the new and existing spaces. However, there can be restrictions that prevent building out, such as zoning laws, homeowner’s association regulations, and lack of space. 

Vertical Additions

More planning must go into building up than out, but it can add room to a confined floor plan without taking up yard space. Vertical additions can be made to homes with an existing second floor or add a second floor to accommodate extra bedrooms, offices, living areas, or bathrooms. However, a contractor might need to reinforce a home’s foundation to support the addition, and stairs must be integrated, too. There are fewer zoning restrictions to building up versus out, but the cost of the project could be higher because more work must be done to support the new structure. 

Homeowners interested in adding to their homes in central Wisconsin will find an experienced contractor in Eagle Construction in Wisconsin Rapids. Since 1976, they have specialized in home additions and remodeling. Whether you want to add a bedroom or update your kitchen, this fully-licensed general contractor can offer design, concrete, and carpentry services. Visit their website or call (715) 424-1147 to schedule a consultation today.