The terms ‘renovation’ and ‘extension’ are often used interchangeably, but they mean completely different things in the construction world. While both will add value to your home and improve its livability, it’s important to know what you are asking for before proper planning and design can begin. Here’s what you need to know before talking to a builder about customising your home.   

Renovations

Renovations or ‘renos’ is a popular umbrella term used by homeowners across the country thanks to the national obsession with home renovation shows. These shows often give the impression that renovations are a DIY job, but the reality is that even minor renovations will usually require input from qualified tradespeople. Renovations are performed on existing buildings and usually fall under the categories of update, repair or restore. Examples of renovation work include:

• Modernising a home by upgrading windows, installing a new kitchen or making the bathroom larger.
• Restoring a heritage home to its original condition by replacing PVC windows and doors, taking out modern bathroom fittings and replacing them with vintage faucets and taps etc and opening up fireplaces. 

Extensions and Additions

An extension is when you add another room/s or make an existing one/s larger at ground level while an addition is a vertical extension. Make sense? Think of it this way. A horizontal extension means you will lose some of your yard, while a vertical extension will give you the extra space you need without having to sacrifice any of your land. The choice to go out or go up will depend on a number of factors including:

• Amount of available land to extend outwards
• Trees on your land that will be impacted by expanding out
• Height restrictions specific to your property
• Stairs – a vertical extension will require a new staircase
• Privacy and access to sunlight for you and your neighbours

Council restrictions may prevent you from extending both out and up, so it’s essential to check with your local council first. Thinking about a renovation or extension in Launceston? Talk to Krause Construction to discuss your options. We can help you transform your home into your dream home.