Yes! We Do Build Second & Third Story Additions!
Sometimes your family seriously needs more space and there’s just no room for a first floor addition. Building regulations in some parts of Montgomery County are pretty strict when it comes to increasing a structure’s footprint; it’s often much easier to get approval to build up, rather than out. Here’s what you need to know about getting a second story addition:
Your Home Will Need A Thorough Inspection First
A second story full of rooms and furniture weighs a lot more than a roof. It’s important to know that your home’s foundation is structurally sound and can support this additional weight. If it’s not quite where it needs to be, there are steps that can be taken to provide the needed support. You’ll want to know what your home needs and what it will cost before you commit to having a second story addition built.
As Your Home Grows, So Do Your Heating and Cooling Needs
A bigger house needs more heat than a smaller house. The furnace or boiler that was keeping your single story home cozy may not be up to the task of warming another floor. Externally, chimneys and vent systems also need to be adjusted to accommodate a larger home. It’s strongly recommended that you work with an expert HVAC contractor when adding a second story addition.
You Need a Way To Get Upstairs
Stairs are the most common way to access a second floor addition. In some cases, where aging in place is the long term plan, or there’s a family member with mobility challenges, vertical platform lifts (similar to an elevator) can be installed. Talk to our designers to find the best way to access the new space.
Tying the Whole Home Together
Ideally, a second story addition will look like it’s always been part of your home. This means paying special attention to the exterior finish of the home. Choosing matching siding, integrating brickwork elements, and other aesthetic choices can make all the difference when it comes to how much you’ll enjoy your second story addition.