Browse Forums Renovation + Home Improvement 1 Aug 08, 2011 12:25 pm Hi, we need additional bedroom/en-suite and a rumpus. The house is on a level block. It was 1960s project home layout, I think. We are not sure to extend backwards or build another level above the garage. Of course, the key is the cost. Which one is cheaper to build? We do not have a plan as yet, as we do not want to spend the money extending the house and find out that we should have build another floor. Can someone shed some lights? Re: Extend backwards or upwards, which one is cheaper? 2Aug 08, 2011 1:57 pm Generally (depending on exactly what work is required) it is always cheaper to extend out than build up - especially if on a flat block. I'm hopeless at doing links, but if you go to Archicentre website, they have a fairly detailed estimation of costs for extensions and renovations etc - and they show costs between upstairs vs single story. It's a good starting point to get an idea of the difference in costs. If building up, you also need to work out what modifications need to be done to downstairs to house the stairwell and any other adjustments. HHCIB Re: Extend backwards or upwards, which one is cheaper? 3Aug 08, 2011 3:16 pm From the quotes I received before we started the knock down re build were within 5% for both same level and second storey addition. I think the key is working out your budget and knowing what you want then sticking to it. Working on a figure of $2500 per M2 will get you a basic extension fitted with electric/plumbing/gas but with very basic fittings. This will not cover a kitchen re make, but would cover an en-suite addition. Re: Extend backwards or upwards, which one is cheaper? 4Aug 08, 2011 4:48 pm Cost ??? Hmmm ? Similar. But, BUT ? Think long and hard about going up. The disruption will be greater. The downstairs will be disrupted by the up stairs. Weather if a big factor. The scaffolding for the new work place laws. As well as that, 95% of people I knw that have gone up have regretted it later on. Noise transference, going up and down all the time is hard on ageing knees, kids love to fall down them and break things (eg. Bones !), when you are upstairs, what you want will be down stairs and visa versa. Unless going up provided magnificent views that would add value to your property, you will be better off by keeping away from 2 story, of course that is just my personal view and that of lots of friends who did go up. ok thanks - yes was wondering if that should have been listed as Option Three! 2 7730 You should pressure clean your roof first and make sure the paint you buy also is anti mould. 4 17655 Very common on rendered homes Smaller suppliers get the lower quality raw materials 6 11850 |