At KBR Builders, we take pride in every house we touch. Driving through the Shore towns we’ve worked in feels personal — every few blocks there’s a home we’ve built or remodeled. We’ll point one out and say, “We did that one,” and it still feels good every time. That pride never fades.

Thinking about adding space to your home but not sure whether to go up or out? You're not alone. For Jersey Shore homeowners, figuring out how to expand your living space comes with more than just design choices — zoning, soil, wind, and even storm prep play a big part.

So what’s better: building a second story or pushing out the back?

Let’s break it down with real-world advice from a builder who lives and works right here at the Shore.

Thinking about expanding your home in Belmar? Whether you're dreaming of a second story with ocean breezes or a cozy family room for Sunday football, home additions are one of the best ways to make your house work better for your life — and boost your property's value while you're at it.

Planning a remodel here in Belmar? Whether you’re thinking about a bigger kitchen, more space for family, or adding a second story, there’s a lot to be excited about — and a few local details that are good to know before you get started.

Here’s what we think every Shore homeowner should keep in mind before the plans hit paper.

Love Where You Live, But Need More Space?

Along the Jersey Shore, it's not uncommon for families to find themselves needing more room but not wanting to leave the neighborhood they love. Maybe the kitchen feels tight, bedrooms are getting crowded, or a more open layout would simply fit life better.

Sometimes the right move isn't moving at all. Remodeling or building an addition can transform a home to meet changing needs, and it all starts with knowing what options are available.

Look, I’m glad you’re thinking about fixing me up.
I’ve been patient through a lot: that 1980s bathroom, the saggy back deck, the fridge that makes that weird buzzing sound...

But before you go picking tile samples or new kitchen colors, I’ve got a few things to say — because some projects are more important than others.

Kitchen remodeling is one of the most impactful home improvements, but not all projects are the same. Homeowners should understand the different levels of kitchen renovations to better plan their budget, timeline, and expectations. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences and considerations when remodeling a kitchen at the Jersey Shore.

Landscaping at the Jersey Shore isn’t just about adding greenery—it’s about creating an outdoor space that can withstand coastal conditions while enhancing the beauty and functionality of your property. From salty air and sandy soil to high winds and heavy foot traffic, the shore presents unique challenges that require thoughtful planning and durable materials.

When considering ways to improve your Jersey Shore home, you may find yourself choosing between a home addition or a remodel. Both options can transform your space, but which is the best choice for your needs? Let’s explore the key differences and benefits of each.

Renovating your home at the Jersey Shore can be an exciting investment, but if you’re not careful, costly mistakes can derail your project. Whether you’re upgrading your kitchen, adding a second story, or modernizing your exterior, here are the top renovation pitfalls to avoid.

At KBR Builders, remodeling isn’t just construction—it’s a meticulous process requiring precision, experience, and an understanding of how to blend the old with the new. Many of the homes we work on have history, character, and homeowners still living on-site, which means every adjustment must be handled with care. That’s why we refer to much of our remodeling work as “surgery.”

if you're serious about fitness, a custom home gym is the ultimate game-changer. Whether you're a weightlifting enthusiast, a busy professional looking for convenience, or simply tired of waiting for machines at a crowded gym, we can design and build a space tailored to your exact needs. At KBR Builders, we specialize in transforming underutilized spaces into high-performance fitness areas, delivering professional-quality home gyms throughout the Jersey Shore.

Creating an open-concept space can completely transform the look and feel of your home, making it brighter, more spacious, and better suited for modern living. However, when it comes to removing a load-bearing wall, the process requires careful planning, proper structural support, and town permits. Here’s what you need to know about removing load-bearing walls and how KBR Builders can help.

Living at the Jersey Shore comes with beautiful views and a unique lifestyle, but it also presents challenges—especially when it comes to flooding and storm damage. If your home is in a flood zone or you’re looking to protect your investment, raising your home might be the best solution. Here’s what you need to know about when and why to elevate your home.

When it comes to construction at the Jersey Shore, permits and inspections are unavoidable steps in the process. Whether you’re building a new deck, adding a second story, or remodeling your home, understanding how permits work can make your project smoother and less stressful. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know about permits, inspections, and why working with a reliable contractor matters.

A well-built deck can transform your outdoor space into the perfect spot for entertaining, relaxing, or soaking in those beautiful Jersey Shore views. While building a deck might seem like a straightforward task, there’s a lot that goes into creating a structure that’s built to last—especially in a coastal area like ours.

If you’re living at the Jersey Shore and need more space, adding a second story to your home can be a game-changer. Not only does it give you additional square footage, but it can also significantly enhance your home’s value, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. Here’s a deeper look at why this renovation could be the perfect solution for your growing needs and how to make it a success.