Home Construction: Remodel or Knockdown / New Build?

April 29, 2012 - PRLog -- Many Long Islanders are seeking more space for their growing families, or need to accommodate an aging parent or other elderly family member. More of us are running businesses out of our homes and a new, dedicated office/work area would be a major boost for that. Sometimes jobs and circumstances change and we simply need to move elsewhere on the Island.

What is the best way to obtain more space? Do you buy a house for the property it’s built on, only to knock it down because it’s too small? What will the new construction cost? Or do you seek an existing house that’s close to what you need, in terms of space and features, and then remodel to new specifications? What is the condition of the existing structure, and will it lend itself to the project you have in mind?

The answer to these questions lies in making the right decisions and having detailed, professional planning and design to properly execute your plans. Also, it pays to ask the experts.

SHELLS ONLY Complete Home Improvements is a full service construction and remodeling company offering design services. SHELLS ONLY Complete Home Improvements has been in the business well over 30 years and has designed and built virtually every type of home construction, from complete knockdowns for new construction, to full house renovation, to delicate interior repairs.

While every project is different in terms of objectives, design, time and budget, clients should not assume that knockdown/new construction has to be the “automatic” choice. Experienced builders will take the time to study your project’s unique needs and have the knowledge and skills to properly renovate/remodel existing structures when that process is the best option.

Good communication with your builder is key. Just to be sure everybody is on the same page, here are three critical definitions:

“Remodeling” is often broadly used to describe any change to an existing home. Technically, it’s more accurate to say that to do a remodel is to change the character of that space. When you convert a den into a master bedroom, you are remodeling the den. Changing a garage to a media room is a remodeling job.

“Renovating” means to make new again. An out-of-date kitchen, updated with new finishes and fixtures, has been renovated. Replacing old windows with new ones is a renovation project.

“Restoring” a house is making the house like it was before. Removing vinyl siding and fixing up the original wood exterior is a restoration project.

Remodel or Knockdown/New Build?

Consider:

Better Value for Construction Dollars. One example: Buy 2,000 sq. ft. house for $450,000, knock it down, and build new 2800 sq. ft. house for $550,000. Total cost: $1 million. Or, Remodel a $500,000 2,000 sq. ft. house and build an 800 sq. ft. extension for $300,000. Total cost: $800,000

High-Quality Materials. Standard. There’s a reason so many older structures withstand the forces of nature and time. Top-quality construction grade lumber was typically used even in moderately priced structures. Framing in older houses may actually be overbuilt for the job. Tear up that worn linoleum or carpet and you may find a fine oak wood floor just begging to be sanded and finished. Sure, you can get such high-quality materials today – for a price.

Advantage of Using an Existing Footprint. While building codes vary from town to town, and state to state, savvy designers know they can often speed the application process and smooth the way by building an extension onto an existing construction “footprint.” Builders may be able to take advantage of unique spaces because of existing walls that are already there, so new extensions or additions would be considered “grandfathered” from before. You may be able to better maximize square footage on the lot. Construction that is completely new from the original may be subject to set-backs and other ordinances that will affect overall construction placement, appearance, size, height and land use. Taxes, too!

Time Saving. Depending on the size and scope of the job, remodeling may allow the advantage of a faster construction schedule.

Save the Planet. Rather than tearing down a perfectly good building and having to deal with the waste that entails, consider a remodel or renovation. Residential sustainable building practices include designing and constructing homes that use resources more efficiently and promote a healthy indoor environment.

By using new high-efficiency windows, modern insulating techniques, up-to-date HVAC systems and state-of-the-art lighting, your remodel or renovation may be just as energy efficient as a new construction. Installing low-flow water fixtures will help reduce monthly utility bills. Some improvements offer tax-saving incentives.

Reducing and recycling construction wastes directly benefit local jurisdictions. Recycling construction wastes is often less expensive than disposal.

The Time to Start is NOW.

We all know about the value-add of a new kitchen or bathroom. Opening up a floor plan can eliminate interior “traffic jams” and create a noticeable difference in how your home feels, and how you feel about your home. Switching to low-maintenance exterior products will save you time and money in the long run.

Take advantage of the current low interest rates and call SHELLS ONLY Complete Home Improvements today. Get started by checking our website at http://www.ShellsOnly.com.

Make your first decision the right decision:

Make SHELLS ONLY Complete Home Improvements YOUR Builder.