Are You Looking for More Information?

We're Always Adding More Blogs Weekly!

We are always adding new content to help unpack commonly asked questions, address scenarios and we will be also uploading new video content to help you unpack different situations you may be considering or may not have thought of yet.

Another Story Content Corner

Enjoy Our Blogs and Related Content

blog image

The True Costs of Adding A Second Story Home Addition

September 14, 20235 min read

“Adding Another Story to your home may not be as difficult as you think.” - Benjamin Stout, Founder Another Story

Cost of Adding Another Story Home Addition

Adding a second story to your home is not just about gaining extra space; it's about maximizing your property's potential, both in terms of functionality and value. As homeowners weigh the costs and benefits of vertical expansion, it's essential to consider the broader trends and the innovative solutions that companies like Another Story bring to the table.

Is It Cheaper to Build a Second Story or Build Out?

When contemplating expansion, homeowners often grapple with the decision to build up or build out. Building out, or a horizontal expansion, involves extending the home's footprint. This can mean foundation work, land excavation, and sometimes even the cost of acquiring additional land.

Conversely, building up, or adding a second story, doesn't require extra land but may necessitate reinforcing the existing structure. In areas where land is at a premium, building up is frequently more cost-effective. The cost benefits become even more pronounced when considering the streamlined approach offered by Another Story.


Is Adding a Second Story Worth It?

Beyond the immediate desire for more space, the long-term benefits and potential returns on investment from adding a second story are compelling. In densely populated areas, building up is a strategic way to enhance living space without sacrificing yard area. A second story can also provide improved views, increased privacy, and a clear delineation between communal and private spaces. When these advantages are weighed against the investment, the value proposition of a second story becomes clear.


The Growing Trend: Building Up Instead of Moving Out

More homeowners are now looking to add a second story rather than relocating. There are several reasons for this trend:

  • Economic Factors: With the rising costs of real estate, moving to a larger home can be significantly more expensive than expanding the current one.

  • Emotional Attachment: Many homeowners have deep emotional ties to their homes and neighborhoods. They value their community, neighbors, and the memories created in their current homes.

  • Convenience: Moving is a massive undertaking, involving not just the financial aspect but also the logistical challenges of packing, shifting, and resettling.

Experts predict that this trend of building up instead of moving out will continue to grow over the next decade. As urban areas become more crowded and property prices continue to soar, vertical expansion will increasingly be seen as the logical and cost-effective choice for many homeowners.


Ready to elevate your living space?

Get a personalized quote from our team of experts and discover

how Another Story can transform your home.

Get My Quote Now


Cost-Saving Innovations with Another Story

One of the standout advantages of opting for Another Story's approach to second-story additions is the significant cost savings it offers homeowners. Traditional methods of adding a second story often necessitate homeowners to relocate during construction, incurring additional living expenses.

With Another Story's innovative technique, this relocation cost is entirely eliminated, as the existing roof remains intact, allowing homeowners to stay in their homes throughout the renovation process. Furthermore, by preserving the roof, Another Story's method eradicates the costly weather delays that are all too common with traditional approaches.

When roofs are removed, the interior of the home is exposed to the elements, leading not only to delays but also potential damage. This exposure can result in unforeseen expenses to repair water damage, insulation issues, or other weather-related impacts.

Another Story's approach is designed to protect the home's interior, ensuring the project remains on schedule and eliminating the unexpected costs that can arise from weather-induced damages.


Maximizing Return on Investment with Vertical Expansion

When considering home renovations, it's essential to think about the return on investment (ROI). Adding a second story doesn't just provide additional living space; it can significantly boost the market value of your home. In many urban and suburban areas, land is at a premium. By building upwards, homeowners can increase the square footage of their property without encroaching on yard space. This vertical expansion is particularly appealing to potential buyers who value both indoor and outdoor living areas. Moreover, a well-designed second story can enhance the aesthetic appeal of a home, making it stand out in the real estate market. With the right approach, the costs incurred in adding a second story can be outweighed by the increased property value, ensuring homeowners see a positive ROI in the long run.


The Environmental Benefits of Building Up

In today's eco-conscious world, homeowners are increasingly looking for sustainable ways to enhance their living spaces. Building upwards, rather than outwards, has distinct environmental advantages. Expanding a home's footprint horizontally often means encroaching on green spaces, which can disrupt local ecosystems and reduce permeable surfaces, contributing to urban runoff issues. In contrast, vertical expansion maintains the existing footprint, preserving yard space and minimizing environmental impact. Additionally, by opting for energy-efficient designs and materials when adding a second story, homeowners can further reduce their carbon footprint. Another Story's commitment to innovative and sustainable construction ensures that homeowners can expand their living spaces without compromising their environmental values.


How Difficult Is It to Add a Second Story?

The complexity of adding a second story largely hinges on the chosen method.

Traditional Methods: Conventionally, adding a second story meant removing the existing roof, a procedure that's both lengthy and disruptive. It often necessitates homeowners to find temporary accommodation, and the open structure is vulnerable to weather-related delays and potential damage.

The Another Story Approach: Pioneering a change in home expansion, Another Story's method negates the need to remove the roof. This approach allows homeowners to remain in their homes during the renovation, minimizing upheaval and additional living expenses. The process is swifter, more affordable, and reduces risks associated with prolonged exposure to the elements.


How Much Does It Cost to Add 1,000 Feet to a House by Adding a Second Story?

The price of adding 1,000 square feet through a second story varies based on numerous factors, including location, design intricacies, and the existing structure's state. However, with the rising trend of vertical expansion and innovative solutions in the market, homeowners have more options than ever to make informed and cost-effective decisions.


Why wait? Find out how affordable and seamless adding a second story can be.

Speak with our specialists today for a tailored quote.

Request Your Quote Here!

cost of home addition
Back to Blog

Location

Homewood

Birmingham, AL

USA

Copyright 2024 | All Rights Reserved | Terms & Conditions | Privacy Policy