One of the most permanent ways to add more space to your home is to have a custom-built addition built. While this option is not cheap and not always simple, it is a great way to maximize your space. Chris Landis, owner of Landis Construction in Washington, D.C., tells us why this approach is not right for every home. For one thing, it is not easy to get permits and there are legal considerations, such as height limits in populated areas. Additionally, historic neighborhoods may have restrictions on the use of easements.
Adding a second floor
Adding a second story to your home can increase the amount of living space you have. However, it’s important to know what to expect before you get started. Because adding a second floor requires significant structural changes, it’s not feasible in all homes. A professional builder can advise you on whether your home can support a second-floor addition. They can also inform you about the regulations and restrictions that apply to your area. You’ll also need the proper permits to get the job done.
If you’re considering adding a second story to your home, think about the size of your lot. Smaller lots are better for a second story, as it provides more privacy. If your yard has landscaping features, you might want to keep them.
Converting unfinished space
Converting unfinished space into living space can be a great way to add more space to your home. But there are some things to consider before you start. First, decide why you’d like to convert the space. Are you looking to add another bedroom, bathroom, or kitchen? Or are you hoping to rent out the space?
Adding a room to an attic
If your home is small and you’d like to add a room to it, attic space can be an ideal place to do so. You can take advantage of the unique sloped ceilings to create a playroom or office or turn it into a second bedroom. The great thing about attics is that they can be easily closed off from the rest of the home, so you can add hundreds of square feet of extra living space. Be aware, however, that attic renovations may involve a few structural changes and may require the installation of new plumbing and HVAC equipment.
Insulation is an important aspect of an attic conversion. The attic is one of the most vulnerable areas in a home, so it is important to properly insulate it before starting your project. Insufficient insulation can make it feel drafty in the winter, and stuffy in the summer. Once you begin the project, it can be difficult to change the insulation.
Adding a room to a basement
If you’re interested in adding living space to your home, you might want to consider adding a room to your basement. In order to make it livable, a basement must have two ways out, usually a window and a door leading outside. You can also add exterior doors to the basement to allow more natural light to come into the room. These features can increase the comfort and enjoyment of the space, as well as comply with the building codes.
A basement addition must be built around the foundation walls, which are usually made of concrete masonry units, also called cinder blocks. The floors in a basement are often slabs on grade, which is concrete poured directly on the ground. They may be covered with gravel or vapor barriers. The basement floor may also have been built with compacted sand under the slab. Before you can add a room to a basement, you must first excavate the space to create a level foundation.
New Construction | Additions | Remodels
Want to build a custom home or add to your existing home? Woolsey Construction is a company that has fostered lasting relationships with quality designers in San Diego. Work with them to design & build your own custom space. Check their latest work here.
