Is it cheaper to build a 2nd floor, or make the main floor larger?

Question

A new building, not adding on.

Size of land is not factored in.

Pleae explain...

Answer 1

Go for the second floor.  Later, if you want even more floor space, you can always build it out to the side or back.  If you just build a large ground floor and then want more space, you'll have to take the roof off, rebuild all the supporting walls,(so that they support another floor).  Adding upstairs plumbing will be a big problem, as well.

You should also ask yourself, "Will I feel more secure, having my bedroom above the ground floor"?  (not "be secure" but "feel secure") That's what counts towards a good night's sleep.

Answer 2

If the walls and footers were not designed to hold a second floor then you'll have to factor that in as well.  Not all walls are load bearing walls.  With a second floor you will have to take the roof off and then build another one on top of the new work.  Most of the time it costs more to remodel a home than rebuild and you are talking about a major undertaking but then again, I'm not a contractor.  The kind of home may have a lot to do with this as well.  If it is on a concrete foundation or on pillars... a lot to factor in.

Answer 3

It is definatly cheaper to make the first floor bigger because if you build a whole new floor, you have to have each room perfectly made and you have to build stairs and everything but just making the first floor bigger makes everything easier!!