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Bump-Out, Room Addition or Second Story: Which Addition Fits Your Home?

Compare the three most common types of home additions, bump-outs, ground-level room additions and second-story additions, and learn which suits your home.

Open interior of a large new addition before finishes

Bump-out additions

A bump-out extends one room a few feet beyond the existing wall, usually a kitchen, bathroom or dining area. It's the smallest addition type and can make a cramped room feel dramatically larger.

Ground-level room additions

A room addition adds one or more full rooms on a new foundation: a family room, primary suite or in-law suite. It needs available yard space and must meet local setback requirements.

Second-story additions

Building up adds significant space without using any yard. The existing structure and foundation must be evaluated to carry the new load, and the project typically involves removing and rebuilding the roof.

How to choose

Your lot, your home's structure, local zoning and how you'll use the space all point toward the right option. A site visit from an experienced addition contractor is the best next step.

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Home Additions in the Lehigh Valley

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