What are the challenges faced by split-level houses renovations

Split-level Houses Renovations

Split-level houses are becoming more and more popular as they offer a lot of benefits for homeowners, such as the ability to cook in the kitchen and have multiple bedrooms upstairs. However, as per split-level housing experts New South Homes, there are some challenges that must be faced when renovating split-level houses.

One of the most common challenges is finding a contractor who can properly renovate split-level houses. There are also a number of different techniques that must be used when renovating split-level houses, which can lead to confusion and delay.

 There are five basic types of split-level styles:

1. Bi-Level or Split Foyer: consists of two floors, the entrance is located at a mid-point between the two levels. A few steps (usually 4-8) are escalated and another short flight of stairs leads down. If the lower part of the house is at a level with the ground, it will have stairs leading to the entrance. The lower level could be at least partially lower than the ground.

2. The Split Level: kind of home consists of one or two levels as well as three or two short steps. The entrance is typically located at the middle level and leads directly into an elegant living space.

3. Stacked Split Level: This type features at least five levels, with the option of five or four short sets of steps. The entrance is situated on the middle floor, generally leading to a foyer, with steps that go both up and down. The name derives due to the fact that extra bedroom spaces have been “stacked” on top of the living space that is second in. There are many townhouses of this kind.

4. A Split Entry: this is the entrance to this kind of house located between floors and is typically located within an entry space off the main home. As with the foyer, split stairs lead to both the ups and downsides of the entrance.

5. Raised Ranch Raised split level: consists of two levels, each with a complete staircase and an entrance to the lower floor. The living space is usually located on the upper floor, accessible via a staircase that is close to the entrance.

Split Level Homes were very popular during the 1950s, especially throughout the East and the Midwest. The design of the house is an adaptation that is very effective for building a home in an uneven area. The house can be constructed into the sides of a hill or slope easily. The homes were built to divide living spaces from sleeping areas as well as to offer informal and formal living areas. They provide more privacy and peace. 

The disadvantages of Split level Houses

The disadvantages are uneven heating and cooling, and lots of staircases. The problem of cooling and heating can be solved with the zoned system. The number of stairs could be a major issue for the disabled and elderly. However, the challenge can be addressed by installing a glider.

Other shortcomings of this kind of layout include a lower-level laundry room with no main bathroom with a shared bathroom located on the upper floor along in conjunction with bedrooms as well as a lack of space in the living room (particularly in comparison to modern designs).

Renovating challenges that are unique for Split Level Homes are:

• A lot of care should be taken to open up the formal living area in regard to walls that support the weight.

• A lot of split levels have small rooms.

• The steps between levels can’t be eliminated.

• It’s difficult to design an entry point that is clearly defined

• The relocation of the kitchen is what makes the renovation cost prohibitive

• It isn’t easy to increase the level of various kinds of levels that are split without compromising the balance and appeal externally.

Conclusion 

The majority of these issues can be overcome through innovative thinking, meticulous planning, and keen care of the layout. Most of the time it is recommended to stick with the floor plan as it is and adjust the flow of rooms, access, and a sense of spaciousness. It’s also generally not a good idea to build a second floor on an unfinished level or to extend the length of the current home.