How to Add an Addition to Your Home
Building an addition to your home is a great and affordable way to expand your space without having to go through the mundane process of selling your home and finding a new one. Whether you want to add an extra bedroom or increase the square footage, an addition might just be the solution you are looking for.
It can be a challenge learning how you can add an addition to your home. This is because it is going to require a lot of work and the right permissions. It is therefore vital that you understand how you can add an addition to your home, so you can do it most efficiently.
An addition is an investment in your property. It is a great way to increase the space for a growing family or simply increase the value of a property before you sell it. Whatever the reason, designing the perfect addition will take time and expertise.
To help you on your journey, here are some top tips on how to add and design an addition to your home.
#1 Identify what you want the space for
When building an addition to your home, you must be clear about what you want. This will make the process much easier and will help your contractors design and build your desired addition. Take some time to consider what you will use the space for and how it will benefit you. You may choose to browse online for inspiration, to see how other people have designed their additions.
There are different types of additions that you can choose from, for example:
Home office
First-floor expansion
Second-floor expansion
In-law apartment
Bonus room over the garage
This additional space can be used for work or pleasure. Some people choose to extend their kitchen or bathroom, while others choose to create more space for recreational activities such as a home gym or a play area for their children. Fortunately, the possibilities are endless when it comes to the reasons and benefits of a home addition.
#2 Determine your budget and timeline
When you know what type of addition you would like to build, you can begin to do your research on how much they cost and what kind of budget you are going to need for your project. There are many types of additions to choose from, and each will have a different cost and timeline involved. You will also have to factor into your budget all the features that you choose for your addition, for example, the size and location of your new space, the ratio of wall to window space, heating or air conditioning units, and much more.
Your timeline is just as important as your budget. Depending on how big and complex the project is going to be, you will need to consider the time it is going to take and the potential disruption to your usual daily activities.
#3 Speak to a professional
There are some additions that you can do yourself, but it is important to consider the advantages and disadvantages of going down this route. It is more common for people to hire a contractor who specializes in home additions, as they will have the skills, experience, equipment, and materials to get the job done to a high standard. They will also have the knowledge to guide you through the process to ensure everything is done correctly, adhere to building regulations and leave you with a space that is safe for use. When it comes to incorporating complex features into your addition, such as heating or air conditioning, glass windows, electrical wiring, and plumbing, it will be much easier and cost-efficient to work with a professional who knows what they are doing.
#4 Obtain the relevant permissions
Depending on what size addition you are looking to get and where it will be located on your property, you will need to obtain the relevant permissions that will ensure you remain compliant with Connecticut and Rhode Island building regulations. The last thing you want to do is invest in addition, and have to reverse the hard work because the correct permits were not obtained.
You should research these permissions and obtain them as early on in the process, to ensure there are no delays or problems with your project.
#5 Design the perfect space
The fun part of your project will be designing the perfect space. Work with the right professionals so that you can piece together a project that will provide you with the space that you need, in a beautiful and unique way. The great thing about addition is that it can be customized to suit your needs.
You must think about your needs now and in the future. An addition is an expansion of your space and a big investment, so you want to make the right decision when you design it. There are plenty of ideas that you can gain inspiration from to help you design the perfect space.
#6 Add the finishing touches
Once all the hard work of planning the space, determining your budget, obtaining permits, and hiring a contractor are complete, you can sit back and relax while your addition is built. During this time, you can think about the finishing touches that you want to add to your space. Perhaps this is some bold and colorful decor that you have always wanted to try? Or a neutral calming space where you can concentrate on your work. Regardless of your addition, it is up to you how you want to design and finish the space.
Adding an addition to your home is no small task. Make sure you follow these top tips on how to add an addition to your home, so you can expand your home and enjoy your new space in no time.