When it comes to a second-storey home extension, this is one job to leave to the experts! It is not the job of a handyman or DIY expert to take on. There are many different aspects that a homeowner must take into consideration before beginning on adding a second storey. Take a look at some key points that we highlight as the most important to consider, before you remove your roof!
BUDGET
The first step in any home renovation or extension is to weigh up your options financially. It is best to seek professional help, where an expert can clearly outline all the costs you will be up for when adding a second storey. Other costs to consider that may fall outside of your core extension can include:
– Re-wiring electrical or updating other services
– Reworking of all roof plumbing
– Façade refurbishment (doors, windows, exterior paint) to match your updated extension
Some of these costs will be unavoidable, however you can be readily prepared with the correct budget from the outset!
APPROVALS
Unlike single room renovations, adding a new storey can impact on your neighbours. A build like this will require planning approvals and building approvals from your local council, which means it must comply with the local zoning regulations and neighbourhood plan.
Depending on your location, your home may also need to fulfil the regulations of certain building standards for extreme weather. In locations prone to fire, flood or cyclone, final designs must usually be approved by council planning.
If this sounds complicated, remember, you have hired experts! The team at Duncan Thompson Extensions are well versed in council matters and can handle these questions with ease.
STRUCTURE
Before any building begins, a home must be checked for structural soundness. This is to ensure that a vertical extension is suitable for the existing structure and land. Extending upwards will mean adding extra weight to your home, engineers will need to be sure that the existing structure will be able to handle the pressure.
As well as practicalities, at this stage an architect should be involved to ensure that stairways can be added with ease.
LIVING THROUGH RENOVATIONS
Extensions to your home, especially those that add a second level, are a fantastic way to not only increase the value of your home through increasing the space within it, but also boost capital growth by creating potential views that add to your living experience. However, to lower costs, it is important to plan how your family will live within your renovations. Commonly there are openings to be made downstairs when the demolition happens and when the stairs are constructed. Talk to your builder about keeping these openings temporary which also keeps you and your kids safe from construction hazards.
