Basement Remodeling or Home Addition
As a Solution
When it comes to extending your living space, basement remodeling works by maximizing the use of every inch of area within your home. An addition will actually create more square footage to add to the existing area by either using up the little extra space you have for your lawn or by the construction of another floor.
When it comes to the more convenient solution, renovation of the basement would rank higher. As additions would require tearing down walls and opening up a portion of the roof for some time, the work would cause more inconveniences to the household. The out-of-the-way location of the basement makes daily routines of the rest of the family less affected.
Project Cost and Return on Investment
Basement remodeling can prove a lot cheaper than building additions. A full home addition entails the demolition of some parts of your home where the planned project will then be constructed. This will need more subcontractors or more time to finish the project, thus more labor costs.
Renovating the basement on the other hand, will cost just a fraction with all the primary foundations needed already built like the walls, ceiling, and flooring. The ready access to electrical wiring and plumbing makes finishing the basement easier and faster. This makes it most beneficial for homeowners planning to add an extra bathroom or kitchenette. The underground nature of the basement which makes it cooler on summers and warmer on winters also requires less effort from your heating and cooling systems.
Either way, both of the projects can considerably add value to your home. The return of investment by resale time would likely be dictated by the quality of the product selection and contractor craftsmanship whether it be a basement remodel or home addition.
Ideas and Design
A basement remodeling project can also prove to be more challenging when it comes to design as you and your contractor would have to work with what is already there including: ductworks, piping, support columns, some portions of the HVAC systems and other structures and equipment. Proper waterproofing should also be implemented to be able to enjoy the basement finish for the longest time. When it comes to ideas, taking advantage of the privacy and isolation of the basement makes it ideal as home office, play area, music room, home theatre and other such rooms.
When building additions, the design and ideas that you can consider is much more flexible. This affords homeowners a more personalized touch. As this will serve as an extension to your home, the style you should take should complement with the overall look of the house.
Craftsmen Network,
New York, NY