-Families grow and buying a new home isn’t always in the budget. The Atascadero roofing contractor, Daniel Ribas, from Ribas Roofing and Services, has some tips for homeowners who are considering adding a second story to their home.
When buying a new home isn’t an option, the first logical thought is to remodel the house to create more space. This is a good option when there is enough room on the property to do so. When the home is on a small lot, adding a second story is often the best option, depending on local zoning regulations.
The first thing to do is check the local zoning regulations to find out if a second story is a possibility. Once that is determined:
- Have the home inspected for structural soundness. A second story is added weight to the existing structure. A home that was designed and built as a single-story building may need reinforcement to safely bear the weight of a second story. A full-service construction company like the Atascadero roofing contractor, can provide a thorough inspection and reinforcement recommendations.
- Get a preliminary design and construction estimate. Once it has been determined that a second story is the best way to go, get preliminary estimates for budgeting purposes. The estimates include design costs, construction and permits.
- Remember that estimates are going to include electrical wiring, plumbing, heating and cooling.
- Is the project being funded from a loan and what kind of loan? An equity loan may not come with any requirements, but a construction loan will have requirements that need to be met.
- Have the plans drawn according to local planning regulations and specifications.
- Submit the plans to the local building department for approval and permits.
- Consider living arrangements and storage. Adding a second story means the family is probably not going to be able to stay in the home during construction. Not only that, but furnishings and personal property are most likely going to have to be stored. What furnishings and personal property can be moved to a temporary home? Which items will need to be stored? Can pets live in the temporary home? How long will you be living elsewhere?
When all signs are “go,” there is one final question to answer. What does a second story add to the home’s value? The personal value of having more space and being able to stay in the home until the kids are all in college is certainly a consideration. But what about when the time comes to sell? Does the second story increase the home’s resale value?
Before making the final decision to add a second story, discuss all the options with an experienced building contractor. The Atascadero roofing contractor, Daniel Ribas, is a full-service construction contractor with years of experience building new homes and remodeling. “There is almost always a perfect cost-effective way to add space to a home,” said Ribas. “We’ll be happy to add the best second story to any home and to examine all the best alternatives to help our customers be comfortable and pleased with their final decisions.”
Ribas Roofing and Services is ready to help customize and build homes exactly how the homeowner wants. The company constructs and crafts every aspect to precise specifications, to the smallest detail. No sub-contractors are needed, as the team personally sees to every segment of construction.