In a commercial construction, people are frequently stuck between the two choices – building up vs building out. In other words, is it better to go “up” with a second floor or go “out” with a ground floor addition? So, which one is best for your commercial space? Before you make your decision, it’s important to understand the advantages and disadvantages of each option.
Building Up Vs Building Out Meaning
When it comes to building up, it’s a great way to increase your building’s square footage and property value while eliminating the need to worry about zoning restrictions. At the same time, your yard space remains – you need not give up any of it for the new foundation. However, take note that you would need to completely remove the roof and rebuild it, on top of adding extra support beams and foundation to carry the weight of the second level. This means it’s impossible to conduct your business there as the construction is happening.
On the other hand, building out involves the least disruption to the existing space, which means you can still carry on with your work if you choose to continue your business through the project. If you’re only creating a small addition, it is possible that any foundation work is not necessary. However, you may require a zoning variance from the town if you’re within the legal property line “setback”, and you’ll lose your yard space.
Factors to Consider When Building Up Vs Building Out
To guide you in making the best decision as far as the construction of the building is concerned, here are the factors to consider when building a commercial building vertically or horizontally.
- Convenience – You will have to factor in whether or not it will be convenient to stop business operations during the duration of construction since building up can necessitate halting operations. If you choose to build out, the construction may need to be protected from the rest of the useable space.
- Budget – Before undertaking any commercial building project, ensure that your finances are in order so that you can best determine whether to expand horizontally or vertically.
- Location – Depending on where you are, some requirements may limit the building’s proximity to the property lines, which may become an issue due to local regulations.
Building Up Vs Building Out: Which is Better?
It depends on your needs, budget, condition of your building, property size, and plenty more factors. When it comes to the cost of building new construction, here’s the bottom line – building up a two-story home is generally cheaper than building out. However, factors that can make this decision cost more include more complicated heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems and expanded elevator shafts.
Why Choose US Framing?
US Framing has an extensive history of performing all types of wood framing in almost every state of the country. Over the decades, we have become the nation’s innovative leader in wood construction that has partnered with many world leaders to produce the highest quality results.
If you have any inquiries about our range of services, don’t hesitate to contact us today.
