A second-story addition increases not only the square footage of you Halifax home, it also adds value and character to your property. A renovation of this magnitude will require lots of planning and the help of professional home builders. With the right design and construction plans in place, you can transform your one-story house into a two-story dream home. Here are some tips to help you get started.
It’s Like Building a Second Home
Before you undertake a second-story construction project, you need to realize that your entire home will be affected throughout the process. You’ll be extending all of the systems throughout the structure, such as the plumbing, HVAC, and electrical. All of these systems will have to be reconfigured to align with the new floor plan. If you have an older home, you may be looking at complete upgrades in all of the systems from the ground up.
Supporting the Weight
One of the central questions to consider is whether the bottom floor can support the weight of the top level. You may need to replace some of the old framework and redesign the top portions of the house to create stability in the entire structure. Keep in mind, the main issue here is how well your home holds up under severe weather conditions and seismic activity. Your house may also need to be brought up to current residential building codes.
Make Room for the Stairs
Wherever there is a second floor, stairs will need to lead to it. A stairway can significantly alter the interior design of your home. It will eat into the square footage, so placing it in the least invasive area in the house is paramount. Although you may be tempted to put the stairs in the middle of the house, you may want to consider other options. Some stairwells can go at the end of the hall or ascend from an open area in the kitchen.
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Windows, Siding, Doors
One of the most significant challenges you’ll confront is matching your home’s current exterior design. For example, the siding that you purchased 15 years ago may no longer be available. The same goes for windows, doors, gutters, shutters, and other elements that make up the outside of the structure. You may want to consider an exterior renovation to insure a cohesive look for your home. This will do wonders for your property’s curb appeal.
Halifax Home Design and Renovation Service
With a little ingenuity and some strategic planning, Case Design/Remodeling can help you design a floor plan. We provide comprehensive home renovation service for residential properties. Our services extend to homeowners in Halifax, Bedford, Dartmouth, and surrounding areas of Nova Scotia. If you would like to see how we can help you renovate your home, then schedule a consultation today with one of our contractors. Call us at (902) 454-2273, halifax@caseremodeling.com.
