Are you looking to expand your home but do not have the stomach for a major renovation? Though the term bump-out is not widely known, the technique is a popular way for homeowners to increase their square footage without the hassle of a major renovation.
What Does Bump-Out Mean?
Bump-outs are minor additions designed to increase the size of your house or room. They can be as narrow as two feet or as large as an entire room. For smaller bump-outs, a cantilever system is sufficient for support. Smaller bump-outs are usually for unique storage solutions. However, if you want a bump-out for a new room, posts are needed to support the weight of larger additions.
How to Use a Bump-Out
There are many ways for homeowners to utilize the new space a bump-out affords them. For smaller bump-outs, they are the perfect place to store excess tools in the garage. They can also be efficiently used in kitchens for extra storage if you make your bump-out into a pantry.
Medium-sized bump-outs from kitchens allow for a breakfast nook or window seating. In a living room, medium bump-outs can simply extend the room, so you have more space for furniture. You can also turn them into window seats with bay windows. In bedrooms, they can be used as walk-in closets, so you can have the wardrobe of your dreams.
Larger bump-outs are perfect for sun-rooms as you can add windows on all three sides for a natural-light-filled reading spot. If big enough, bump-outs can be turned into entire bedrooms if you’re looking for more sleeping space. Just remember, with larger bump-outs, you will need to support them with posts underneath instead of the cantilever support you would use for small bump-outs.
Pros of a Bump-Out
There are many advantages of adding a bump-out to your space:
- Increase the amount of space in the room
- No need to restructure the existing roof
- Improve the exterior look of the house to increase resale value
- HVAC and plumbing are not involved at all
DIY or Hire a Professional?
Because bump-outs are such minimal additions, some homeowners do not need to hire professional contractors. For smaller bump-outs, most homeowners could handle the construction. For larger bump-outs that require support posts, homeowners should consult a professional to ensure safety and stability.
If you decide to tackle it on your own, make sure to review the essentials of DIY home repair before you grab your tool belt and saw. If you would rather leave it to the professionals, make sure to choose the right one.
Protect Your Property
Whether you decide to DIY your bump-out or hire a professional, it’s important during any renovation to protect your house. Use composite crane mats to protect your outdoor property from any machinery, contractor trucks, or building materials that come with a renovation. Also, make sure you’re building according to local code. Contractors are always aware of keeping projects to code, which is another benefit of hiring one.
What Else to Consider Before Adding a Bump-Out
Even though there is no need to change your existing roof, bump-outs do require a flat or lean-to roof, for which you may need professional help.
Another consideration is the type of flooring. You can try to match your existing flooring, but installing new flooring through the room with the bump-out will make the addition flow nicely with your existing space.
No matter what you need the extra space for, bump-outs are a great choice for homeowners looking to expand without paying the big price of major renovations.
