What Exactly is A House Bump-Out Addition And Why You Might Want One

A Bump-Out Might Be The Way To Gain the Space Needed For a Bath, Kitchen, or Family Room

If you need more living space but don't want to spend a fortune on a full-size addition? Consider a bump-out addition.

A bump-out addition sometimes called a micro addition, can extend the size of an existing room by the few feet you might need. In fact, a bump-out addition can add up to 15 feet of additional space. Compared to other additions, a bump out is smaller and takes less time to build at a significantly lower cost.

A bump-out addition can be added to many rooms, including kitchens and bathrooms. Some homeowners choose to install a garage bump out for more storage or parking space.

Let’s explore the benefits of building a bump-out addition to meet your changing need for additional living space.

So, What Exactly is A Bump-Out Addition?

A bump out is smaller than a typical addition. Think of a bump out as only expanding an existing room, not of the house. There are no rules about what makes a bump out. However, most bump-out additions share some features and benefits.

A bump-out addition can be as small as two feet.

While a bump-out can extend as 10 or 15 feet, they can also be small popouts no deeper than 2 feet. A good example is a bay window that could include a window seat or a reading nook.

Cantilever Design

Small bump-out additions are often cantilevered from the house (or are unsupported by posts). A cantilevered bump out is typically smaller, limited to around 2 feet in depth. A cantilevered bump-out also offers the benefit of not needing footings or foundation walls, which can significantly lower costs. This type of addition also preserves yard space.

No additional HVAC Costs

One significant benefit is that a bump-out often doesn’t need additional electricity or HVAC. Because they are attached to a room, they benefit by sharing the room's existing heating and cooling.

Lean to or Flat Roof

A bump-out addition will often have a shed-style or flat roof. This saves the cost of extending your existing roof line.

Minimal Exterior Changes

Because they are small, a bump out does not significantly change the exterior of your home. This makes it easy to blend them seamlessly into the existing design of your house.

Common Types of Bump-Out Additions

While a bump-out can enhance any room in your home, some of the most common uses for a bump-out include:

In the bedroom – A bump out can add a walk-in closet or sitting area to your master suite.

In the living room – In the living room, a bump out can be used for additional seating like a window seat or shelving for displaying treasured keepsakes.

In the bathroom – A bump-out addition is perfect for adding a double vanity or stand-alone soaking tub.

In the kitchen – If you want a breakfast nook, extra cabinetry, or a separate pantry, consider a bump-out addition to your kitchen.

If you need a full-sized room, a bump out may not be the best choice. You might need to consider a regular addition, which is much more expensive and time-consuming. But a bump-out addition is a great option if you need just a little extra space.

The Pros and Cons of a Bump Out Addition

Like any home improvement project, a bump-out addition offers pros and cons.

There are some significant benefits to a bump-out addition. First, a bump out costs significantly less than a full-sized addition and provides only the space you need. As a result, you lose less yard space and protect mature plantings. Because it has a smaller footprint, a bump-out addition can blend seamlessly with your existing home.

While a bump out offers plenty of benefits, there are some drawbacks. A bump-out only adds space to one room. Depending on your layout, kitchen or bathroom bump-outs may require plumbing or electrical work, increasing the cost. Also, you may have trouble matching your existing siding.

Is A Bump Out Addition Right For You?

So, is a bump-out addition worth it? It depends on your goals. If building a bump out to improve a room's functionality, for example, by adding space for kitchen cabinetry or a stand-alone tub in the master suite, it will likely be worth it. In this case, a bump out will increase the value of your home. However, if the addition was purely aesthetic, for example, adding a window seat or reading nook, the disruption might not be worth it for some homeowners.

Do you need some additional space and are looking for a solution? Consider a bump-out addition! Let us help you create a new look and design the perfect finished space to meet your needs! Call the experts at Degnan Design-Build-Remodel at (608) 846-5963. We can take your condo to the next level of comfort, design, and function! Are you ready to learn more? We're always happy to answer your questions.