Archive for the ‘home construction’ Category

What Are the Best Extension Rooms For Houses? 

Posted on: February 10th, 2025

Real estate prices in California are higher than ever, making moving a really difficult choice. So, what are the best extension rooms for houses? If you love your home but need more space, an extension is a great alternative to relocating. Uprooting your life for a bigger house isn’t always ideal—especially with the outrageous cost of buying, selling, and moving. Expanding your home lets you create the space you need without leaving behind your neighborhood, school district, or community you love. If you need a general contractor for your home, we serve the entire Sacramento area including Roseville and Rocklin with everything from cabinet refacing to general contracting to home painting.

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Types of Home Extensions 

If you decide to extend your house, the choice largely depends on your space, goals, and how much you want to change the layout of your home. Here’s what we think are some of the best ways to extend your home: 

  1. Double-Story Extension – When your lot doesn’t have room to expand outward, building up is a smart move. Adding a second story can double your living space, making room for extra bedrooms, a home office, or even a rental unit for extra income. It’s a big project, but the added square footage makes it well worth it. 
  2. Wrap-Around Extension – This expands both the back and side of the house, creating a large open-plan space. It’s great for adding a bigger kitchen, dining area, or game room, all in one go. Wrap-around home extensions are ideal for corner lots or homes with extra side yard space. 
  3. Rear Extension – One of the most common home extension ideas, this pushes out the back of the home, making room for a larger kitchen or family room. It’s an excellent option for those who love entertaining or just want more breathing room inside. 
  4. Side Return Extension – Perfect for narrow spaces, this makes use of the often-overlooked alleyway next to the house. It’s a great way to widen your home without sacrificing backyard space. This type of house extension is especially popular for older homes with small side yards. 
  5. Dormer Extension – A smart way to add space in homes with attics that aren’t being used. Instead of leaving a cramped, sloped-roof attic, a dormer creates more vertical space with full-height windows and additional square footage. It’s a great option for adding an extra bedroom, office, or possibly a small rental unit.
  1. Cantilevered Extension – A modern, eye-catching option that extends a section of the home outward without extra support underneath. This creates a unique architectural feature while adding space for a bedroom or office. 

Cost To Add a Home Extension in California 

Before diving into the design and details of a home extension, you’ll need to have a basic idea of cost! Prices can range quite a bit depending on the size, materials, and how complicated the build is. A small, straightforward room addition might start around $25,000, while a large, more complex rear extension could go well over $120,000. Planning ahead financially is key. Having a good home extension plan helps keep costs under control without compromising on quality. 

Home Extension Design 

A well-thought-out design considers everything from natural light and airflow to how the space connects to the rest of the house. Choosing materials that match or complement your existing structure keeps the extension from looking strange or out of place. Whether you go for a sleek modern look or a more traditional style, the goal is to create something that feels like it was always part of the original structure. 

Layout plays a huge role in making an extension functional. Open-plan spaces can make a home feel bigger and brighter, while strategic room placement ensures a natural flow. Think about how people will move through the space and how it fits into your daily routine. Storage solutions, built-in features, and energy efficiency should also be part of the plan. The right design doesn’t just give you more room—it makes your home work better for you. 

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Popular House Extension Rooms

Because of modern architecture, there are so many creative ways to expand your living space. Here are some of our favorite extension room ideas to consider: 

  • Bright and Airy Sunroom – If you love natural light, adding a sunroom or enclosed patio is a game-changer. Floor-to-ceiling windows or sliding glass doors let in tons of sunshine while still giving you an indoor space to relax. It’s perfect for enjoying the outdoors without dealing with bugs or unpredictable weather. 
  • Larger, More Functional Kitchen – If your kitchen feels cramped, an expansion can make a world of difference. More counter space, a bigger island, and an open layout can turn your kitchen into the heart of your home. A bigger kitchen is always a bonus. 
  • Private Guest Suite – If you have frequent visitors or aging parents who stay for extended periods, a private guest suite is a great investment. Whether it’s a small addition or a detached casita, having a separate space with its own entrance gives guests (and you) more privacy. 
  • Garage Conversion – A garage can be so much more than just a place to park your car. Turning it into a home office, gym, or extra bedroom adds usable space without changing the footprint of your home. Plus, since garages already have a structure in place, conversions are typically much more budget-friendly than full additions. 
  • Enclosed Patio or Outdoor Living Space – California’s weather makes outdoor living a no-brainer, so why not create a space you can use year-round? An enclosed or covered patio expands your living area, giving you a comfortable spot to relax, entertain, or even work while still enjoying the fresh air. 

How Does a Home Extension Add Value? 

A home extension can significantly increase a property’s value, but the impact depends on the type of extension, design, and quality of work. More square footage alone can boost value, but functionality matters just as much. An extension that improves the home’s flow, enhances natural light, and adds usable space will be far more beneficial than one that feels tacked on or disrupts the layout. 

Certain types of extensions tend to offer the highest return on investment. Adding a bedroom, expanding the kitchen, or creating a home office can make a property more desirable to future buyers. In California, where real estate is already expensive, buyers often look for homes that maximize space efficiently. A well-designed home extension that makes everyday living more convenient and comfortable can set a home apart in a competitive market. 

Beyond resale value, a home extension improves how you use your space, making your home work better for your lifestyle. Avoiding the costs and hassle of moving while customizing your home to meet your needs is a major advantage. Even if selling isn’t on the horizon, a home extension can provide years of enjoyment while still increasing the long-term value of your property. 

California Laws Regarding Home Extensions 

In California, expanding your home involves navigating various state and local regulations to ensure safety and compliance. A key set of guidelines is the California Building Standards Code, detailed in Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations, which outlines requirements for construction, electrical, plumbing, and energy efficiency. Adhering to these standards is imperative for any home extension project. 

Additionally, local zoning laws play a significant role in determining what modifications are allowed. These laws can dictate aspects such as the size, height, and placement of your extension, as well as its distance from property lines. It’s important to consult your city’s planning department to understand specific regulations that may affect your project. For those considering adding an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU), California has enacted laws to encourage their development. Recent legislation has streamlined the approval process and reduced certain fees, making it easier for homeowners to add these units. However, there are still guidelines regarding unit size, parking, and occupancy that must be followed. 

What Are the Best Extension Rooms for Houses Conclusion

Expanding your home isn’t just about adding space—it’s about modifying your home to better fit your unique needs. The right design adds value, improves functionality, and saves you the cost and hassle of moving. If you’re considering a home extension near the Sacramento area, contact our team at LNL Construction. We specialize in home extensions, kitchen and bathroom remodels, and full-scale renovations to help you get the most out of your space. Whether you’re looking for a small upgrade or a major transformation, we’re here to bring your vision to life with expert craftsmanship and quality materials. Let’s make your home work better for you—reach out today!

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The Siding vs Stucco Guide: The Pros, Cons, & Costs

Posted on: January 15th, 2025

Siding vs stucco is a debate that many homeowners face when deciding how to finish their home’s exterior. Both options offer unique advantages, from the timeless, textured look of stucco to the wide variety of styles and affordability that siding provides. 

In this post, we’ll explore the main differences between these two popular materials, weighing their pros and cons to help you make the best choice for your home’s design and budget. We serve the entire Sacramento area including Roseville and Rocklin with everything from general contracting to home painting.

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What Is Siding?

Siding is the exterior cladding or covering of a building. As a barrier against weather, moisture, and pests, it protects your home from the elements while also adding an attractive finish. There are several types of siding materials to choose from. Here are some of the most common types: 

  • Vinyl siding: Made from PVC (polyvinyl chloride) plastic, vinyl siding is generally the most affordable. It doesn’t require painting and is low maintenance. Plus, it comes in a variety of textures, colors, and styles, including some that mimic wood. 
  • Fiber cement siding: Fiber cement siding is made from a blend of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers. It’s fire-resistant and very durable, with a lifespan of 50+ years. Fiber cement siding is also resistant to rot, pests, and extreme weather. Like vinyl siding, it comes in a variety of textures and styles.  
  • Wood siding: Natural wood such as cedar, pine, or redwood offer a beautiful finish that is timeless. Wood siding is eco-friendly and biodegradable, but requires much more maintenance, like regular sealing, staining, or painting. 
  • Aluminum siding: Siding made from aluminum is lightweight, low maintenance, and resistant to fire, pests, and rot. However, it’s more susceptible to denting and comes in limited styles. 

Pros and Cons of Siding

When discussing siding vs stucco, it’s important to look at both the advantages and disadvantages of each. Here are the pros and cons of siding: 

Pros:

  • Protection against the elements: Siding protects your home from rain, wind, sun, and temperature changes, creating a durable barrier that keeps out moisture and prevents structural damage. 
  • Aesthetic versatility: Because siding comes in so many different materials, styles, textures, and colors, it can be made to fit just about any architectural style or personal preference. 
  • Energy efficiency: Certain styles of siding, like insulated vinyl or fiber cement, improve energy efficiency by adding a layer of insulation to your home. 
  • Low maintenance options: Many siding materials, like vinyl and metal, require little upkeep.
  • Durability: Siding materials like fiber, cement, metal, and brick veneer are highly durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions. 
  • Cost options: Siding is available at various price points, with vinyl being one of the most affordable and materials like stone veneer or fiber cement catering to higher-end projects. 

Cons:

  • Prone to fading: With so many days of sun in Sacramento, siding like vinyl is especially prone to fading. 
  • Cracking: Siding can crack in various conditions. For example, extreme heat can cause vinyl siding to crack, while strong winds can bring debris that damages other types. 
  • Maintenance: Some materials, like wood and fiber cement, have to be repainted or sealed periodically to retain their appearance. 

What is Stucco?

Stucco is a durable, cement-based exterior finish that has been used for centuries to protect homes and other buildings. It is applied in multiple layers over a supportive base to create a textured surface without any seams. Stucco is especially popular in Mediterranean, Southwestern, and Spanish-style architecture, but it works on a variety of styles. 

Stucco is traditionally made of cement, sand, lime, and water, but modern stucco often includes polymers and other synthetic additives that improve its flexibility. It can be finished in smooth, textured, or patterned designs and is available in multiple colors, as pigments can be added to the mixture or painted over it. 

Pros and Cons of Stucco

Stucco is popular, especially in the Southwest, and comes with a number of advantages. Some of the pros of stucco include:

  • Durability: Stucco is resistant to fire, pests, and rot, lasting for years. It performs especially well in warm, dry climates like Sacramento. 
  • Low maintenance: Once applied, stucco does not need much upkeep. 
  • Versatility: Stucco can be tinted and textured to achieve a variety of aesthetics. 
  • Seamless: Unlike siding, stucco has no seams or joints, reducing the risk of water infiltration. 
  • Longevity: With proper maintenance, stucco can last for fifty or more years.
  • Insulation: Stucco naturally provides insulation for your home, helping you save money on heating and air conditioning.  

Some of the cons of stucco include: 

  • Expensive: Stucco can be expensive, often costing more than siding due to the amount of labor required to apply. 
  • Climate sensitivity: Stucco is prone to cracking in areas with extreme temperature fluctuations or high humidity. 
  • Moisture issues: Improper installation can lead to moisture buildup and mold problems, especially in wet climates.

How To Repair Stucco

Is Stucco Cheaper than Siding?

When comparing siding vs stucco, it’s important to look at the costs of these exterior options. In general, stucco is more expensive than siding. Although cement material is fairly inexpensive, the application is labor-intensive. Stucco usually requires at least three layers, with drying time between each. 

However, there are some siding materials that can cost more than stucco. Although vinyl siding is on the cheaper end, stone veneer and brick veneer siding are premium options that usually cost more than stucco. 

How Much Does Stucco Cost Per Square Foot?

The average cost of stucco in Sacramento is around $11,000. The exact amount varies, depending on the square footage that needs to be covered and the type of stucco used. 

In general, stucco costs between $7 and $9 per square foot. A 2,000-square-foot home, for example, might cost between $14,000 and $18,000. If you opt for synthetic stucco, which is less prone to cracking and better at insulating, expect to pay between $7 and $12 dollars per square foot.  

Can You Replace Siding with Stucco?

Yes, you can replace siding with stucco, but the process is a bit more involved than simply swapping materials. Transitioning from siding to stucco requires proper preparation so that the stucco will adhere correctly and perform well. It’s a major project, but it can be worth it for better energy efficiency and improved curb appeal.

First, your contractors will remove the existing siding, whether it’s vinyl, wood, or another material. This will also include removing any underlying sheeting or materials that aren’t compatible with stucco. They’ll check the wall’s framing and insulation for damage and make any necessary repairs. At this point, the walls will be fully open, which can be a good time for upgrades like additional outdoor outlets and fixtures, diagonal strapping, or new windows. 

From there, the contractors will install a moisture barrier, like house wrap or roofing felt to protect the wall from moisture infiltration. They’ll add either a metal lath or foam board insulation for the base, depending on the type of stucco. Finally, the contractors will add the three coats of stucco, waiting for each to cure properly between layers.  

Siding vs Stucco Conclusion

When it comes to siding vs stucco, both types of exteriors can be a great option. Some types of siding can be more cost-effective than stucco, but stucco is low-maintenance and works well in Sacramento’s climate. The best choice will depend on your budget as well as the look you’re trying to achieve.

Now that you’ve weighed the pros and cons of siding vs stucco, you may be ready to make a choice for your home. At LNL Construction, we have the experience and dedication to craftsmanship you need for your exterior project. Whether you opt for siding or stucco, we can revitalize your home’s exterior. Contact us today for an estimate. 

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