Why Ranch Homes Are Ideal for Remodeling or Room Additions

May 19, 20160

Classic American ranch style homes are common in suburbs from coast to coast. Ranch homes are prized for their spaciousness and for the fact most sit on relatively large lots and boast conveniences like attached garages. Times have changed since many ranch homes were built in the immediate post-war era, however. Many owners of ranch homes crave more living space and are interested in making aesthetic improvements to their ranch homes’ exteriors. If you’re one of those owners interested in revamping your ranch home, you’ll be glad to know home improvement contractors in Wellesley and the surrounding areas will confirm ranch homes are ideally suited for remodeling.

A ranch home remodel can be a lucrative option.

Reasons to Remodel Your Ranch Home

If you’re trying to decide whether to sell your ranch home and purchase a home that better suits your lifestyle or to remodel your existing home, here are a few arguments in favor of remodeling.

Many ranch homes can easily be renovated to achieve a more open floor plan simply by removing non-load bearing walls.
Ranch homes are known for their solid construction. If the “bones” of your home are strong, why risk moving into a newer construction home that may not be as reliable?
Ranch homes are historic homes! You can retain your home’s retro rootsand remodel it to meet your changing needs.

Up or Out? That Is the Main Question

If you’re considering embarking on a ranch home remodel in Wellesley or the surrounding areas and your primary goal is to add more living space, you have two options. You can build up (contractors often call this a “pop-top” addition) by adding a second story or you can build out by expanding at the back or side of your home. Building up can literally double your home’s square footage without changing its footprint. You’ll have the ability to design whatever bedroom, bathroom, kitchen and family room configuration you wish. Building up will also significantly transform the exterior of your home.

Build outs, also known as bump outs, are usually less expensive by about 25 percent than build ups. This remodel usually involves constructing a “U-” or “L”- shaped addition or enclosing a carport. Build outs are only feasible if your home’s lot is large enough. Additionally, for larger build-out projects, you’ll usually lose a sizable portion of your yard. Either option will deliver more square footage and a dramatic change to the exterior aesthetics of your home.

There May Be a Third Option

If you are contemplating a ranch home remodel and your home has a basement, you could pursue southeastern MA home improvement plans that call for a basement remodel. Large basements have immense potential. A skilled contractor can transform your home’s basement into a warm, inviting living space or add bedrooms and bathrooms. Don’t overlook this valuable square footage if you’re considering a remodel.

Whether you are interested in extensive second-story additions or simple room additions in Wellesley, contact us at Colony Home Improvement. We can transform your run-of-the-mill ranch home into a true showpiece you’ll be proud to call home.

A Room Addition Above the Garage Can Provide the Extra Space Your Growing Family Needs

Add extra space with room additions over the garage.

Room additions over your garage add extra space.

There are many ways to add more space to your home to accommodate a growing family. A room over the garage is one alternative that can prove to be an excellent choice. In many situations, there is nowhere for a house to expand so looking to the space above the garage is the perfect solution. Here are some of the top reasons to consider this option.

Additional Space for Virtually Anything

Before you begin any construction, talk to a home improvement contractor about the structure of your garage. As long as it is sound enough to manage a room on top, this space can be the perfect size for just about anything. It makes a good area for a home-based business, an extra bedroom or a workout room.

Additional Space Can Add Value to Your Home

No one doubts the functionality of an extra room, but it could provide much more. Adding a room above the garage can improve the curb appeal of the house and complement the home’s aesthetic look. In addition, an extra room means more square footage, which can increase the overall value of the home.

Talk to a home improvement contractor about a garage addition.

A home improvement contractor can help you can help you with an addition over your garage.

Additional Space for Extra Income

Whether you need the extra space now or just want to have it available for those just-in-case situations, it can provide extra income. An above garage room can easily be made into a small apartment, which can be rented out to college students or other individuals.

Considerations to Make Prior to Building

Building an extra room over the garage should first be discussed with a contractor. They can help you better understand the logistics and scope of the project. Here are some things you should discuss with your contractor before building room additions in Wellesley.

Check the garage for structure and framing

Provide adequate insulation

Do you want to add plumbing and where’s the best place for it?

Do you want outside access? Where will you put it?

Before contacting your Wellesley contractor for home addition advice, check to see if your home has to meet any building codes or zoning requirements. You will also want to check how an additional room might influence homeowner’s insurance and property taxes. In some regions, there may be some discounts on insurance rates as long as you meet certain building requirements.

Are you ready to add usable space to your home by adding a room above your garage? Contact us with your ideas and questions.

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