If you are torn between choosing a one-story home and a two-story home, simply think about what you need in your life. It all depends on your lifestyle, available space, and the number of people who will be living in the home.
There are benefits and drawbacks to both, so if you’re picking between a single-story home or a two-story home, take a look at the differences between each to make an informed decision.
Pricing Differences
Generally speaking, one-story homes and two-story homes have the same square footage, which means that a two-story home will cost more than a single-story home.
That’s because more materials are needed to support the extra floor, along with more labor to build it. One-story homes will be cheaper to build because there’s less work involved. Plus, some local building codes only allow single-story homes to be built in certain areas.
However, there are many more factors that determine the actual price of each home.
Design and Aesthetics
One-story homes are easier to design and build, meaning you can get exactly what you want. You can simply add an addition to a one-story home without having to worry about structural issues.
If you have a preference for the aesthetics of a two-story home but are on a budget, consider choosing a post and beam design. These types of homes look like two-story houses but are just one story.
Possibility for Expansion
One-story homes are great for small families and growing families who don’t have a lot of extra space. Because of this, a one-story home is a great option when you are just starting out.
However, if you think you might have more children or start a swap business, a two-story home might be a better option. Because of the extra space and your ability to incorporate a basement, you will have the chance to expand your home.
Maintenance
One-story homes are much easier to maintain than two-story homes. With a one-story home, you won’t have access to the upper floor, so there’s no need to worry about dripping pipes or broken appliances. However, you will still need a ladder to get to the attic.
A two-story home provides the space you need but means more work cleaning and maintaining the upper floor. This is especially true if you have small children or pets that require regular cleaning.
Accessibility
A one-story home has a lower chance of having safety issues. Every person who lives in a two-story home will enter and exit from the same floor. It’s much easier for older folks to navigate, as well as people with disabilities.
When you choose a one-story home, it’s easier to have friends and family over, as the entire party can be on the same floor.
Conclusion
As you can see, one-story homes and two-story homes each have their own unique benefits and drawbacks. If you’re wondering whether you should buy a one-story home or a two-story home, you should consider what you need for your family now and what you’ll need in the future.
Find the best builders in Tulsa that will make your dream house come true. Banner Custom Homes offers everything from home construction to residential design. Get in touch with us today to learn more.