Making the Right Decision for Your Colorado Springs Home
If you live in Colorado Springs and are considering remodeling your home, you’re likely weighing two options: Should you remodel your existing ranch-style home, or would it make more sense to focus on a two-story home? Maybe you’ve even thought about a hybrid option—adding a second story to your ranch home, often referred to as a “pop-top” addition. The decision can feel overwhelming, and it’s understandable if you’re unsure which route to take. After all, your home is one of your most valuable assets, and you want to make sure the remodel improves both your lifestyle and your home’s value.
At Southern Mesa, we’ve worked with homeowners across Colorado Springs, helping them make the best remodeling choices for their needs. Whether it’s expanding their living space, modernizing their home’s design, or tackling the complexities of a pop-top addition, we’ve seen it all. We understand the fears and concerns you might have. Is this remodel worth the investment? Will it meet your family’s needs? What challenges could come up during construction?
In this article, we’ll walk through the pros and cons of remodeling a ranch-style home, a two-story home, and adding a second story to a ranch (a pop-top job). By the end, you’ll have a clearer idea of which option will best suit your lifestyle, budget, and future. And with Southern Mesa by your side, you’ll feel confident in whichever path you choose.
Cost of Remodeling a Ranch-Style Home vs. a Two-Story Home
What Impacts the Remodeling Cost of a Ranch-Style Home?
When remodeling a ranch-style home, the costs can vary widely depending on the type of remodel you’re considering. For example, expanding outward, updating the interior, or finishing the basement can drive up costs. However, another popular option for ranch homes in Colorado Springs is adding a second story—commonly referred to as a “pop-top” addition.
A pop-top addition involves building vertically to create a second story. This can save money compared to a full addition that expands outward because you won’t be altering your home’s footprint or yard space. Often, it’s even possible to keep your original roof, set it aside during construction, and then place it back on top once the new second floor is complete. This can lead to cost savings since you’re not purchasing a new roof or altering the roofline.
However, while a pop-top addition can be cost-effective in certain situations, it also comes with potential price increases if structural issues arise. For example, your existing foundation might need reinforcement to support the added weight of a second story, or an engineer might discover that your current foundation is failing, which can greatly increase the overall cost of the remodel.
Remodeling Costs for Two-Story Homes: What to Consider in Colorado Springs
For two-story homes, remodeling tends to focus on updating interior spaces or reconfiguring layouts. Because a two-story home already offers vertical space, you might not face the same foundation or structural challenges that come with a pop-top addition to a ranch home. However, changes to plumbing, electrical systems, or load-bearing walls can still increase costs, particularly in older two-story homes that may need updated infrastructure.
That said, two-story homes often require less roofing material than ranch-style homes because of their compact footprint. If you’re focused on saving costs, remodeling a two-story home might have fewer large-scale structural expenses than adding a second story to a ranch.
Key Problems to Consider Before Remodeling
Common Issues with Remodeling Ranch-Style Homes in Colorado Springs
Ranch-style homes can be great for remodeling due to their single-level layout and the potential to expand outward or vertically with a pop-top addition. However, there are some challenges to consider. Expanding horizontally means more roofing and foundation work, while a pop-top addition introduces concerns about whether your home’s current structure can support the added weight of a second story.
If you go the pop-top route, an engineer will need to assess your home’s foundation and overall structural integrity. If your foundation is strong, this type of addition can be relatively smooth and cost-effective. But if there are issues, you could be looking at costly foundation repairs or reinforcement. Additionally, some homeowners may find the disruption of a pop-top job more invasive than expected, as it often requires changes to the layout of the first floor to accommodate the stairs and new floorplan.
Challenges of Remodeling Two-Story Homes in Colorado Springs
Remodeling a two-story home typically doesn’t involve major structural concerns unless you’re altering the load-bearing walls or expanding the footprint. However, updating older two-story homes can still pose challenges, especially when it comes to reworking plumbing, electrical systems, or heating and cooling for both levels.
If accessibility is a concern, remodeling a two-story home might also involve converting part of the first floor into a bedroom or adding an elevator or chair lift to ensure the home remains functional as you or family members age.
Space and Layout: Which Home Type Offers More Flexibility?
Ranch-Style Homes: Open Spaces, Basement Potential, and Pop-Top Additions
Ranch-style homes are known for their open layouts and ease of navigation, with no stairs to deal with. This makes them prime candidates for interior renovations, like opening up the kitchen and main living spaces, or finishing the basement to add more functional square footage.
A pop-top addition is an excellent option for ranch homeowners who need more space but don’t want to sacrifice yard area by expanding outward. The vertical expansion allows you to keep your original lot size while doubling your square footage. Plus, by keeping the existing roof and reusing it, you can avoid the expense of installing a brand-new roof. However, adding stairs and reconfiguring the layout of the first floor to accommodate the new story can present some challenges in terms of design.
Two-Story Homes: Vertical Space and Layout Considerations
With a two-story home, you already have the vertical space built in, so remodeling often focuses on optimizing the existing layout rather than adding square footage. You might update the kitchen or bathrooms on the first floor, or reconfigure rooms on the second floor for better flow and functionality.
For homeowners looking to maximize space, finishing the basement is a popular option in two-story homes, providing additional living areas without expanding outward or upward. Basements in Colorado Springs are a valuable asset, especially when finished with amenities like guest rooms or entertainment spaces.
Comparing Ranch-Style vs. Two-Story Homes for Energy Efficiency
Energy Efficiency Concerns in Ranch-Style Remodels
Ranch-style homes are typically less energy-efficient due to their sprawling layout. Heating and cooling a single, expansive floor can lead to higher energy costs, especially if the home lacks modern insulation or energy-efficient windows. However, a pop-top addition gives you the chance to improve the energy efficiency of your home by installing upgraded insulation, modern HVAC systems, or energy-efficient windows on both floors.
If you’re considering a pop-top addition, it’s worth noting that Colorado has insulation code requirements specific to our region. Our team at Southern Mesa will talk you through those codes as well as upgrades you can make to ensure that your new second story is properly insulated and equipped with the latest energy-saving technologies.
Energy Efficiency and Insulation for Two-Story Homes in Colorado’s Climate
Two-story homes tend to be more energy-efficient because of their compact design, which allows heat to rise naturally, warming the upper floor in the winter. However, during hot Colorado summers, the upper floor can become uncomfortably warm without proper insulation or ventilation. Installing zoned heating and cooling systems during your remodel can help regulate temperatures more efficiently, reducing your overall energy costs.
Best Remodeling Projects for Ranch-Style Homes
Top Ranch-Style Renovation Ideas for Colorado Springs Residents
Ranch-style homes offer endless possibilities for remodeling. One of the most popular projects is opening up the kitchen and living areas to create an open-concept design that feels larger and more modern. Adding skylights throughout larger rooms or hallways can also brighten up the space, taking advantage of Colorado’s abundant sunshine.
Pop-Top Additions: Doubling Your Living Space Without Losing Yard Area
If you need more living space but don’t want to expand outward, a pop-top addition is a smart solution. By adding a second story to your ranch-style home, you can create new bedrooms, bathrooms, or even a master suite, all while maintaining your original yard space. This type of remodel is particularly attractive in Colorado Springs neighborhoods where lot sizes might be limited.
Best Remodeling Projects for Two-Story Homes
Popular Two-Story Renovation Projects in Colorado Springs
Two-story homes in Colorado Springs often benefit from kitchen and bathroom remodels, particularly on the first floor. Another popular project is creating outdoor living spaces, such as decks or patios, to extend your home’s entertaining area. With less yard space occupied by the home itself, two-story homeowners often have more room to work with when it comes to outdoor upgrades.
Resale Value: How Does Remodeling Impact the Value of Ranch-Style and Two-Story Homes?
The Impact of a Ranch-Style Remodel on Property Value
Ranch-style homes are highly sought after, especially for homeowners who prioritize accessibility. Adding a second story through a pop-top addition can significantly boost your home’s resale value, making it more attractive to families looking for extra space without sacrificing single-level living areas. Buyers also love finished basements, so if you finish yours during the remodel, you’re likely to see a good return on investment.
Does a Two-Story Remodel Increase Your Home’s Resale Value?
For two-story homes, focusing on functional upgrades like updated kitchens, bathrooms, or outdoor spaces can greatly enhance resale value. These homes already offer more vertical living space, so making sure that the interior layout flows well with updated finishes will appeal to buyers with larger families.
So Which Remodel is Right for You?
At Southern Mesa, we know that every home and family is unique. Whether you’re considering a ranch-style remodel, a pop-top addition, or upgrading your two-story home, we have the experience and local knowledge to help you make the best decision. Our team will guide you through each step of the process, ensuring that your remodel fits your lifestyle, budget, and vision for the future.
With the right approach, a remodel can transform your home into a more functional, beautiful, and energy-efficient space that adds significant value over time. So, whether you’re expanding your living space, updating your home’s design, or exploring the possibility of adding a second story, Southern Mesa is the partner you can trust to turn your ideas into reality.
Reach out to us today, and let’s start planning your dream home remodel in Colorado Springs!
