Most homeowners are reluctant to expand their home renovation options, especially since it can be a boatload of paperwork to handle. Nevertheless, there is some benefit to going all about by making a drastic renovation move. Instead of making numerous small adjustments over time, a second-level home addition can be a versatile solution for your renovation’s needs.

What to consider for a second story remodel

There are many ways to expand your home vertically. You can build from scratch similar to a ranch-style house, or replace your roof by installing a loft. Whatever upgrade you want to introduce to your home, a second story will have common requirements before you can install it. Being familiar with these considerations can guide you in the right direction for your extensive building project.

In this article, we’ll share three factors to consider for a second story addition.

Avoid turning your home into a boxy property

A renovation’s goal provides your home with either a functional or aesthetic improvement. Second story remodels give you both. Make a note to incorporate architecturally attractive proportions. Simply doubling your living space’s height can make it appear boxy and uniform.

Not all one-story houses have the best foundations to look great with an additional level. However, there are different ways to go over structural limitations, even when maximizing your spaces. If you still want to utilize as much space as possible, you can offset it with finishing like porches, overhangs, and trim details.

Be mindful of your paperwork

As mentioned above, your living space may not be structurally fit to withstand a second story addition with ease. Some homes don’t have the groundwork for a multilevel structure, so it’s necessary to hire a structural engineer to evaluate your home’s framing.

Smaller renovations like lawn extensions and indoor projects may not require a permit. However, more extensive remodels definitely do. Besides looking at your building’s structural integrity, you shouldn’t forget to consult with local building codes. Although this is the most stressful part of the building process, it’s necessary to ensure that you’re not violating any community regulations with your project. If you’re hiring a local contractor to execute your vision, it’s more likely that they’re familiar with the documents you’ll need to procure and prepare.

Match your exterior accents

Having a second story gives you plenty of options to solve some common problems with living spaces. Besides getting more space, you’ll have an opportunity to shuffle your home’s floor plan to create a new orientation for your property.

Although you have more freedom with your interiors, you still need to match your exteriors’ original look. Your second story should include similar accents for your windows, décor, roofing, and other attachments to your exterior walls. On the other hand, you can make a complete makeover if you don’t want to match your home’s current look. Since you’ll be working with new materials for your second floor, it’s already half the battle done to align the rest of your home!

Conclusion

Contrary to popular belief, a second-story remodel is more effective for smaller properties to give you more value for the space you have. Doing so gives you more options in your future home remodels while simultaneously increasing the real estate’s property value. Don’t forget to consult with professional building contractors to ensure that your proposed blueprints will structurally and aesthetically fit your current home.

If you’re planning a second story addition in Houston, we’re the right team to call! At Incredible Homes, our building experts can guide you through the full process of your renovation project. Call our building experts today to receive a free estimate!