Home Additions: Build Upwards or Outwards?

As time goes on, you may find that you and your family need more space in your home than you originally thought. Whether you have children, you get a new pet, or you simply want more space in which you can enjoy life, opting for a home addition is a great way to keep the comfort of your own home while adding a new space that you can enjoy. Once you decide a home addition is the ideal option for your needs, you may find yourself wondering: “should we build the addition upwards or outwards?” At Leader Builders, our design-build team in Chicago has the experience to guide you throughout this seemingly stressful time.

Building Upwards

If your home is located on a small lot, you may find your only option is to build upwards, as building outwards may impede on neighboring property. This is likely the case if you live in an older neighborhood where homes are closer together. Depending on how much space you want to add, consider adding an additional room or even an additional story if structure and budget allows. Plus, this way you won’t have to worry about decreasing the size of your yard as well. Keep in mind the maximum height of your home may be pre-determined by the town in which you reside. Our design-build team can help you navigate these restrictions.

Building Outwards

Adding your home renovation to an existing blueprint is another option. Maybe you’ve always dreamed of adding a bigger sunroom or a cozy reading room. If your addition is going to be relatively small, this is likely the better option for you, as it will be less invasive and disruptive than an upwards addition. Just as building upwards, you may find there are certain limitations to how big your property can sprawl, so this is something to keep in mind as well.

Contact Leader Builders to Get Started!

Regardless if you want your home renovation to be built outwards or upwards, our design-build contractors in Chicago will guide you every step of the way. Contact us today to learn more.