If you’ve outgrown your current residence, you have two choices: add on or move. A room addition makes perfect sense if you are otherwise happy with your home and its location. However, a successful expansion requires due diligence, and here are a few things you must consider first.
What Permits Are Needed?
It can be tempting to skip the permit and just go ahead with construction. However, there could be serious repercussions later. For example, you may be unable to file an insurance claim or have difficulty selling your property. These problems are not worth it, so please do not forget to obtain the appropriate permits.
Where Are My Property and Utility Lines?
You may think you know exactly where your property boundaries are, but what if you are mistaken? And what happens if you are clearing your land and wind up damaging gas or electric lines in the process? It’s better to be safe rather than sorry and check your property deed or have a survey performed first. Then call the appropriate authorities to check and mark the location of your utility lines.
Are There any Zoning or HOA Restrictions?
Believe it or not, there could be restrictions on room additions, either from your local government or a homeowner’s association. Accordingly, it’s always best to check local zoning laws and HOA bylaws any time you think of adding on.
Will It Fit with My Existing Design?
A new room can dramatically alter the shape of your existing home. Will this new addition blend in with the current design or will it appear awkward or out of place?
When finished, your freshly-built space should look as though it were always there rather than having it be obvious that you have added on. This includes the inside appearance, so don’t forget to consider doorways and flooring when coming up with your design.
What Will I Use This New Space For?
What is your reason for wanting to build another room in the first place? Do you need an extra bedroom, bathroom, or sitting area? Or do you desire a sunroom or enclosed porch? How you will use your new space will greatly affect the features and construction of it. For example, you may need more closet space in a bedroom than you would in a family room.
Maybe you have multiple purposes for your new addition. In that case, think about all the different ways you will use the space to ensure you don’t overlook any important features.
Will the Purpose of the Room Change Over Time?
It’s important to consider not only how the room will be used right now, but what its function could be in the future. For example, if an extra bedroom might someday become a mother-in-law suite, you’ll want to design it in such a way that transforming it into its new purpose would not be too difficult.
What Contractor Will You Use?
All the planning in the world won’t do you any good unless you choose the right contractor. The ideal contractor will have the knowledge and experience to provide you with a high-quality room addition. And that company will also feel confident enough to offer you a written warranty on any work.
Here at T&K Contractors, we have more than 36 years of experience in all types of room additions. We are also familiar with local building codes, and will never take shortcuts that might jeopardize the quality of our work. Plus, you’ll receive a limited, five-year warranty. Ready to get started? Then contact us today to schedule a consultation.