Need more room for home living? If your family is growing or you’re longing for increased space to create that dream home office or gym, you don’t have to move. An addition may be perfect, and it doesn’t have to be a big one. Consider a micro add-on instead!
Also called a bump-out addition, this approach can be an affordable, appealing way to create added room. Read on to learn more about bump-outs, when to invest in one, and what to consider so you can make the most of adding more space to your home.
The Basics of Bump-Out Additions
If you’re considering a micro add-on, here’s what you need to know to help you choose the right approach for your home.
What is a bump-out addition?
Normally smaller than an average-sized bedroom, bump-out add-ons are a convenient, cost-effective way to create more space in your house without investing in a full-sized addition. An enlarged season room, an added half-bath, a new bay window with bench space—all these options and more can fit the bump-out definition. As long as your plans meet all the relevant building codes, the sky’s the limit.
How much space can you expect to get with a bump-out?
There are no specific rules about the size of a bump-out, but in general, you can expect that you’ll get between 2 feet to 15 feet depending on your specific building plans.
If you’re looking for a significant increase in space—such as a huge new master bedroom or a series of new areas for a gym, home entertainment and/or office—then what may fit your needs better is a full addition.
Remember, large additions may require more investment, but under the right circumstances, they can be beneficial.
Our team is happy to answer your questions about whether a bump-out or a full home addition is the best fit for your needs.
What makes a bump-out unique?
There are certain traits that bump-out add-ons have in common:
- Small Size — Bump-outs can be as small and simple as adding a few extra feet to your home in one specific area, such as the kitchen or screened-in porch. They’re typically smaller than one full-sized room.
- Unique Support Structure — Because bump-outs don’t involve a large amount of added space, their structure will consist either of support posts or cantilevers anchored on existing walls.
- No HVAC Needed — Due to their petite nature, bump-outs don’t usually require you to install HVAC.
- Flat Roofing — Bump-outs usually don’t involve extending your existing roof. Instead, they use a flat or shed-style roof with gutters if needed.
When is a bump-out addition the most useful?
Bump-outs can create much-needed spaciousness in a variety of situations, depending on your home’s unique architecture. Most often, homeowners use them to get a few square feet extra to make a minor renovation.
You may wish to do a micro add-on when you desire to enjoy:
- A window seat with a bay or bow window and bookshelves
- A full bathtub or luxury shower in a bathroom that only has room for a small shower
- Extra counter space in a kitchen or bathroom
- A roomy kitchen island or butcher block
- A place to add one more appliance
- An added breakfast nook or small dining area
What Advantages Do Bump-outs Provide?
As you consider your remodeling plans, keep in mind that there are several benefits for choosing a bump-out addition:
Affordability
You may have a specific budget in mind, or you may be mindful that certain home improvements won’t get you a sufficient return on your investment. The good news is that a micro add-on can often be done with minimal investment compared to other remodeling options.
In small bump-outs, there’s usually no need to add to the foundation or extend the roof, which can create 15-30% savings when compared to a conventional addition.
Time and Convenience
Seeking a new home and selling your current one can seem appealing—until you consider how much time that can take. Plus, there’s the added hassle of packing, moving, and unpacking.
A full addition can also be time-consuming, as it requires extending the foundation, framing out entire new rooms, installing plumbing and/or electrical systems, and more.
By comparison, a bump-out is a lot less involved and can typically be done quickly, with minimal inconvenience for you and your loved ones.
Practicality
If your main goal is to make your current home layout more functional, a bump-out can be a great way to do that. Because these micro add-ons are just big enough to fit a need, they’re highly popular and feasible for nearly any property.
Bump-Outs, Full Additions or Remodeling: Which Is the Best Fit?
Looking for more guidance? Remember that the right remodeling option for your home is the one that best meets your long-term needs. So, as you consider what you want your property to be like, ask yourself:
- How much added space do I need?
- Do I want a full remodel of several rooms, or just one room?
- Do I need one or more full-sized rooms to be added on?
- Am I seeking just a few additional square feet to fit a bigger appliance or added feature such as a kitchen island?
- Do I have areas in my home such as a partially built-out attic or basement that I want to convert?
- Do I need to add a bit of room for a mother-in-law suite?
- What kind of budget do I want to stay within?
All these questions and more can help you evaluate your goals and decide on your best course of action.
Get Expert Remodeling to Give You Your Dream Home
Turn your property into a lovely, lasting dream space! Our expert team at Iron River will guide you on the perfect addition to meet your goals, so you can enjoy your home for years to come.
Get started today! Schedule a complimentary, no-obligation consultation and estimate.