First Floor Additions: More Room More Happiness
(Part One – Beginning The Project)

by: Liz Roberts

Feeling a bit cramped? Sharing too much dinner space with the cat? Trying to read the newspaper between baseball volleys?

It’s time to think about adding on to your house. First floor additions are the perfect way to give you and the family (including the pets) more area. This space could be used for a family room , guest room or even a kitchen extension. It’ll also put less wear and tear on the usual overused rooms such as the dining and living areas. Additions are the boost every house needs, no matter what their style.

When considering installing a first floor addition, it is important to think of all the options available. Another consideration is the style wanted. An addition should seamlessly blend with the main house. Don’t put a manor like wing on the end of a Cape Cod or a ranch. It just looks plain ugly and makes the house an eyesore. Look at what other people in your neighborhood have as well as online and in magazines. It’s best to consult with an architect if you’re a neophyte. If not and you feel confident then head over to your nearest HomeDepot or Lowes. These stores carry basic addition plans that range from building a simple one car garage to a more complicated two story add on. Also, if confused seek help from your local building inspectors. They can instantly tell you if your plans will meet with the codes and what you can do to improve them. A handy web site to look at is www.homedoctor.net which gives tips on how to start finding blueprints. Also www.beforethearchitect.com can show exactly what is done to the house. If you decide to draw up the plans yourself consult with everyone in the family. While a spouse may want more closet space, the kids may want more room for their studying and parties. The best bet would be purchasing a planning pad (graph paper) and draw up your plans. Keep in mind everyone’s demands and ask for their input. When sketching , be sure to add even the room’s smallest details. Plans should include everything from where to put electrical outlets to positioning doors and windows. Also use the preliminary sketches to include the height of the walls as well as what kind of ceiling is desired.

Blueprints can be daunting, especially for the beginner. If you know you’re going to be confused by them, then hire an architect. There is an initial consulting fee for the first meeting. A pro can tell you things and suggest ideas that you and your family didn’t think of. When hiring, choose one who has experience with additions. Some just specialize in new constructions. Also he or she should be highly knowledgeable about the materials needed. They should how to make to make the new addition a seamless part of the existing house. Study their previous work so you can get an idea of their specialties and strengths (some architects might specialize in cathedral ceilings or sunken areas etc.) Also they may not be the right designer for your project. Don’t consult with one who specializes in post modern design if you want something to match your Cape Cod. Make a list of what you want and show them. Clearly emphasize your priorities. Your wants will be incorporated into the design and can help set expectations. If you’re on a budget , some architects now charge by the hour. This cuts down expenses in one area and will allow you to splurge in another.

If you’re completely clueless you can hire a contractor to construct the entire addition from sub flooring to roofing. Again as for anything regarding the house, shop around. Look to see who neighbors and friends have used; ask them for their contractor’s name. Another good aspect about going through a larger remodeling company is that they will provide you with financing. The addition can be paid off in a series of monthly payments , not in one lump sum. Pros also can deal with permits and building codes better than the average citizen and can save you from headaches that these bring. Professional contractors will do everything in a timely manner as well. They’re not going to stop because they’re too tired or there’s a big game on TV. However some have definite ideas about how a room should be built. They may bully you into building something you’re not going to be happy with. Be very careful with smaller contractors. These little independents could be scam artists who will start a job and not finish. As with any contractor, check with the Better Business Bureau for ratings.

Building an addition will add not only to your home but to your lifestyle. You can take the do it yourself route or hire a reputable contractor. Either way, you’ll have plenty of space to enjoy and stretch out in.

Next part of the series, building the foundation