Second Story Additions: What Homeowners Need to Know

Second storyadditionsbenefit growing families. Whether you're makingspace for in-laws, seeking additional room for more children, or simply need more space to engage in hobbies, a second story addition can give the room you need to spread out.

This type of major addition involves many steps. Homeowners looking into the possibility of adding on to their home must consider all of the factors before embarking on the process. Knowing what is involved can help most homeowners decide if this type of upgrade is right for them. AtLitchfield Builders, we help homeowners who want to build on to their property.

A second story addition involves removal of the attic area and insertion of a second useable floor over the first floor of the home. A standard addition is an addition that is built onto the side of the house. These two types of renovations can be very different from one another. Understanding the differences can help you decide which type is right for you.

With a standard addition, homeowners can remain in the home with minimal disruption to their everyday life. Aside from removal of an exterior wall, all work on a standard addition is done away from the family's living space.

For a second story addition, this is not the case. Family members must move out of the house temporarily during this type of renovation because it is so disruptive to the structure and functionality of the home.

A standard addition can generally be added to any home that is in good condition. By contrast, second story additions require the home to have proper structural support before the addition can be made. Before the addition can proceed, the home must be evaluated by an engineer and often changes must be made to the structure.

Separate building codes may apply to a second story addition versus a standard addition. An experienced contractor will know the particulars of the building regulations for the area, but homeowners who want to know can contact their local building codes office for clarification.

There are a variety of factors that can influence the shape and scope of this type of renovation. Knowing these factors in advance can help you as you meet with contractors to discuss the upcoming project.

Staircases can take up square footage on lower levels. Most staircases require approximately 80 to 120 square feet. Knowing where the staircase will be located can help you envision the final product.

HVAC and electrical systems are based on a home's current square footage, so these systems will likely have to be upgraded to take on increased capacity. In addition, new ductwork, plumbing, vents and outlets will also need to be added to the second floor.

The chimney in the home, if there is one, must be extended above the second story. If the chimney is not extended, then it must be eliminated entirely.

All too often, second story additions are planned from the inside, resulting in an awkward exterior. The following tips will help you ensure consistency between the upper and lower floors of the home:

When adding a second story to the home, this is a great opportunity to upgrade elements of the main floor as well.

Making these changes can add to the overall scope of the project, but doing this during the remodel is time and cost effective.

The cost of this type of project may vary based on the square footage of the existing home. Costs may also vary based on whether or not the existing structure can support an additional story, because reinforcements can be costly. As a general rule, adding a second story to a home will cost between$100 and $300 per square foot. Some homeowners save money by doing some of the work (like painting) themselves.

In addition to these costs, there are additional, longer-term costs to consider as well.

Are you thinking of adding a second story to your home? Are you ready to get started on your project? Leave your comments in the box below. For the right family and the right property, adding a second story can be a very rewarding experience. Often families choose to take on this project rather than moving because adding a second story is more cost effective than finding a completely different home.

All the same, a second story requires a lot of work and long-term planning. This type of project will can involve changes made to the interior and exterior of the house. For a time, the house will even become unusable. If you're not sure whether or not adding a second story is right for you, contact a contractor. At Litchfield Builders, we help households through their interior and exterior renovations. To find out more about adding a second story, or to get a quote,contact us today. For more information, you can alsodownload our free Home Remodeling Guide.

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Second Story Additions: What Homeowners Need to Know