Extra space is a luxury for homeowners. When a desire to transform the home arises, two options are available: finishing the basement or building an addition. Deciding between the two can be complex, so here are the pros and cons to help make the decision easier.
Homeowners want and need sufficient space in order to truly enjoy their homes. Not all single-family homes come with the precise square footage and layout desired. Interior remodels are the solution to this predicament. Refinishing the basement or adding an addition are two practical options.
What are the pros of remodeling the basement?
- Cost-Effectiveness
Remodeling the basement allows homeowners to work with their existing home’s footprint. This is usually the most cost-effective route to take to increase the size of the living space. The walls and foundation are already in place, making a basement refinish an affordable option.
- Fewer Distractions
Some home remodeling projects create excessive noise and disruptions to everyday living. But refinishing the basement comes with few distractions, as the work is done in the lowest part of the home. Homeowners can live in the home without paying for temporary housing.
- Design Continuity
Certain architectural styles, such as Edwardian and Georgian, are highly symmetrical and make it difficult for contractors to continue the aesthetic. Finishing a self-contained space like the basement is far easier from a design standpoint, leading to less worry about how to make congruous changes.
What are the cons to remodeling the basement?
- Risk of Water Damage
Most basements are not designed to be transformed into functional living spaces. Air quality concerns and water damage issues can arise in the lowest level of the home since the appropriate moisture barriers may not be in place. Prior to remodeling, ensure vapor barriers are installed.
- Less Natural Light
Being below ground, the basement does not have access to significant natural light sources. As a result, this space can feel less welcoming. However, homeowners who plan to turn the basement into a home theater area or recreation room have little to worry about.
- Unanticipated Relocations
The existing condition of the basement can drive up remodeling costs. Relocating wiring or plumbing, for instance, can push the cost of the remodeling project up. It is critical to maintain the structures that support the home; homeowners may reconsider if they must do significant unanticipated renovations.
What are the pros of building an addition?
- Desirable Living Quarters
Building an addition offers design flexibility. Homeowners have more opportunities to create a welcoming living space with access to plenty of natural light in their desired location. Plus, adding to the home is easier to tackle, even when attempting to marry existing architectural styles.
- Achievable Design Goals
Homeowners who build an addition create the most optimal layout and thereby achieve their design goals. By building an addition, the new space can be converted into a living room. Or the prior living room may be transformed into a gorgeous master suite. The possibilities are endless.
- Added Home Value
Building an addition raises the value of the home and appeals to buyers. In some cases, the amount paid for the addition equals the amount of the home’s increased value. Building an addition is a better investment than refinishing the basement for homeowners who plan to sell in the future.
What are the cons of building an addition?
- Reduced Lawn Space
Adding square feet to the rear of the home means giving up a chunk of yard area. Reduced lawn space is less of an issue for homes located on large lots. But homeowners with a smaller outdoor space must consider sacrificing it to accommodate greater indoor space.
- Difficulty Obtaining Permits
Permits are required for remodeling projects that alter the home’s usable square footage. Obtaining the permit can be more difficult when building an addition. This is due to the fact that usable lot space and setback restrictions determine how close the home can be to the property line.
- High Expense
A third hurdle to building an addition is cost. Extra materials to enhance the foundation and framing are required, driving up the price significantly, especially in comparison to a basement remodel. Costs can skyrocket further when adjustments to the home are needed to provide the right structural support.
Choosing to finish the basement or build an addition requires careful evaluation of costs, the necessity of permits, any potential delays due to weather, and existing limitations. The commitment may be large or small depending on whether the homeowner wants to add to the home or opts to remodel.
Homeowners have opportunities to flex their creativity when choosing to build an addition or utilize their existing space with a quality basement remodel. Work with R3 Contracting, a reputable local contractor, for either type of project and be assured of a seamless build process.
Whether you want a simple basement remodel or an extensive design that includes multiple rooms, we are committed to fulfilling your vision. Our specialists discuss your ideal design, create a digital model, and incorporate your feedback. We coordinate with trade contractors to execute the remodel.
R3 Contracting also specializes in home additions. Our contractors are experienced in building a variety of functional living spaces, such as a new bedroom, home office, or second story addition. We work with your home’s existing architectural style to ensure the new addition flows well.
Working with R3 Contracting gives you unlimited design options, from a home bar in the basement to a sunroom addition. We deliver impeccable workmanship to each project we undertake and unparalleled customer service, ensuring you thoroughly enjoy your refinished basement or home addition.
Homeowners in Hoffman Estates and Schaumburg, Illinois, work with the best when they choose R3 Contracting. We involve you in every step of the project so that you reside in the home of your dreams. Call us today to learn how we can help with your next home renovation project.
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