Many homeowners hit a point where their house starts to feel cramped, but the thought of selling and moving feels worse. So you start thinking, What if I just add more space?
That’s when the question hits: Should you build up or build out?
However, the choice isn’t so simple. Your budget, your lot size, zoning bylaws, and lifestyle play a role. Going the wrong direction with a home addition can cost you more than you expected. It can drop your property’s resale value, cause trouble with the local government, and ruin your peace of mind.
We’ve put together a guide that’ll help you make the right call. Let’s begin!
Understand Your Lot Size and Setbacks
If your home sits on a small lot with limited backyard space, building out may not be an option. If you aren’t sure about your lot’s boundaries, contact your municipality or check your property’s zoning details. Exceeding these limits means you’ll need variances, which take time and sometimes get denied.
On the flip side, if your yard is big and you don’t want to add another staircase or mess with the roof, building out might be the smarter choice.
Foundation’s Strength
Adding a second floor requires structural support to handle the extra weight. Old homes won’t be best suited for that.
In contrast, building out usually involves new footings and foundation work, but it won’t touch your existing structural base. That makes it a less risky option for older homes that weren’t designed for vertical expansion.
Check Permits
In some cases, building out is easier from a permit standpoint. Some cities in Ontario also restrict development to preserve architectural charm. They may also restrict how tall an residential property can be.
Disruption to Your Daily Life
Let’s be real: construction gets messy. But some types are more disruptive than others. Building up usually means stripping off the roof, reinforcing the structure, and staying out of parts of your home for several weeks.
Building out can often be done with far less disruption. If the addition connects to the back or side of your house, it will minimally interrupt your everyday life.
New Addition’s Flow and Functionality
While the idea of an extra room sounds exciting, ask yourself if future homeowners would need it too. When bedrooms, bathrooms, or a private suite, it’s best to add them to the second floor. If you want a bigger living room or kitchen, building out is a better idea.
Cost Differences
Building out can cost more in materials because you’re pouring a new foundation. You save a little on labour costs because you’re not tearing into your existing roof or structural components.
Building up eliminates the need for new land, but costs can rise fast if you need a stronger foundation, new stairs, roof framing, or temporary housing.
A typical home addition in Ontario ranges from $200 to $350 per square foot. Structural reinforcements or high-end finishes can easily raise that price. When interviewing contractors, ask for an itemized quote, so you can switch or remove elements and stay under budget.
Building out shrinks your backyard, garden, or patio. If you particularly love barbecues and gardening, you’ll miss the space.
Take time to evaluate your options. If you have any questions, Your Kingston Contractor is just a call away.
