If you require additional space in your home but would prefer not to relocate, a second story addition is perfect. Building up instead of building out preserves your yard and community and provides the space you need. Maybe you would prefer an additional bedroom, office, or play space for the kids. Whatever the motivation, a second story addition can totally change the character of your home.
In this blog, I will walk you through the basic steps of adding a second story to your house. I will keep everything as basic and as straightforward as possible so you can see how it’s done and know what to expect. Let’s begin!
Think About What You Want
Sit down first and consider why you want a second story. What are you going to include? How many bedrooms or bathrooms? Do you want an upstairs living room or a new kitchen? Putting it on paper serves to visualize the big picture.
You can even draw a crude outline of what you require. Don’t get concerned about your drawing skills! Simply make a rough outline to help you describe your ideas to a builder or architect when the time comes. This task enables you to focus on what you require and what you want without spending money.
Research Local Regulations and Permits
All towns and cities have building regulations. The regulations are referred to as building codes or zoning laws. Some towns have a provision that states that houses should not exceed a specific height. Others issue permits to construct new rooms or floors.
Go visit your city hall or building department and ask about the rules regarding adding a second story. They will tell you what you can and cannot do and what you need to fill out. Getting your permits before your building will keep you from getting into trouble and will make sure your new story is safe.
Make Sure Your Home Can Handle a Second Story
A second story weighs more on your house. Your foundation and walls need to be strong enough to hold the extra floor.
Have a structural engineer or professional architect visit your house. They will inspect your foundation, walls, and roof to see whether any of them need to be repaired or strengthened. Your house might need certain places reinforced if it is an older house or wasn’t built to hold a second story.
This is a very important step since it secures and insures your new story.
Decide On Your Budget
Installing a second story costs money. You have to budget and make sure you don’t lose money along the way.
Think of all the costs, including:
- Materials such as wood, brick, and drywall
- Labor or wages for laborers
- Permits and inspections
- Electric, plumbing, and heat
- Painting and finishing
- Add some extra money for unexpected items. Sometimes things do not go as you had planned, and you will have issues that need to be fixed.
Being exactly sure of what you can afford makes you the boss and keeps you stress-free.
Find the Right Builder or Contractor
Find a builder who specializes in second-story additions. Get recommendations from friends and relatives. Look on the Internet and look up reviews.
Talk to a few builders and ask for quotes. Don’t automatically go with the cheapest quote — choose someone you’re comfortable with, and who can tell you what they’re going to do.
A good builder will take you through it all, keep you safe from dangers, and get the job done on time.
Prepare for Construction
After you have your important builder scheduled and your permits issued, you can prepare for building. Your second-story addition will be dirty and loud. It might take months, depending on how big the addition is.
You will have to find time to cover your belongings in the home. You might need to move some of the furniture or have a temporary living space set up in a secure location.
Discuss with your builder the timing and the manner in which the site will be kept clean and safe by your builder. Communication is the secret to successfully navigating this phase.
Good Design and Energy Efficiency First
An addition to the second story is a great way to further develop the design of your home. Think about where windows will bring lots of sunlight into the rooms. Think about how the stairs will conveniently and safely connect the first and second stories.
Plan on installing sufficient insulation and energy-efficient windows. This will warm your home in the winter and cool it in the summer, without burning dollars on utilities.
You may, if you wish, seek advice from your architect or contractor for some intelligent design ideas and energy efficiency tips.
Walk Through the Work and Finish
When construction is complete, it’s worthwhile to inspect everything carefully. Check the newly completed second story with your contractor. Walls, ceilings, and floors should look acceptable and operate well.
You will also need city inspections to check that the work is at safety levels and meets building codes.
When you’ve cleared final inspections, you are free to decorate and move in. Congratulations on your new space!
Final
- Plan. The more planning up front, the better the project will go.
- Seek professional assistance. Do not skimp on an engineer or architect for safety and design.
- Stay involved. Monitor the site regularly and communicate with your builder.
- Be patient. Building does take time but is so worth it.
A second story on your house may feel like this giant project, but step by step, you can make it easy and hassle-free. You will be adding space, value into your home, and building a home that is ideal for your family’s needs.
