Bird's-Eye View: The Science Behind Construction And Contracting

If you love your current residence but could do with some extra space, extending is often the best way to achieve your goal. There are several types of home extensions you can build, but generally you can extend outwards, upwards, or raise and build under.

So which type of extension is best for your home? Each type of home extension has unique pros and cons that should be considered before extending. Several factors influence the decision on which kind of home extension is right for you.

Here's a look at some of the key factors to consider before extending your home. 

The Type of House You Have

Not all house types are suitable for all types of extensions. For example, while raise-and-build-under extensions are possible for older, timber-framed houses built on stumps, they are not an option for houses built on concrete slabs. 

If your house has a concrete slab foundation, you may have to consider practical house extension options like adding an extra storey or building to the rear or side of the property.

The Available Space

The decision to extend also depends on the availability of space on your property and where that space is located. Most houses don't have enough space for a front extension but can benefit from rear, side or wrap-around extensions. A wrap-around extension is essentially an L-shaped extension formed by combining the side and rear types of extension. 

On properties with limited space for a rear or side extension, storey additions or raising and building under can fit the bill. These house extension options allow you to create more space without altering your house's original footprint. 

How the Extension Impacts Your Home Aesthetics

Before you extend, it's vitally important to think about the look that the extension will give your home. Are you looking to maintain, enhance, or alter the appearance of the property? Go with a home extension that matches your home design requirements. It's possible to update the look of your home while paying homage to the old design.

A home extension not only presents the opportunity to create more space for your family but also to update the look and feel of your home. Unfortunately, how you can extend your home may be limited by your local building codes and homeowner association guidelines, so you need to make sure that you familiarise yourself with these codes and guidelines before starting your project.