Colony Home’s Guide to a Second Story Addition
If you’re ready to expand your home, you need to consider whether to build up or out. Many properties don’t have space to add rooms to the first floor. In these situations, adding a second story in Wellesley, MA, can be the best solution to add livable space. Our remodeling contractors in Massachusetts will share valuable information to help you determine whether a 2nd story addition in Wellesley is suitable for your needs.
Consider Zoning
The first factor to consider when planning a 2nd story addition in Wellesley is your property’s zoning. While you know that your property is already zoned as residential, you need to consider whether it’s acceptable to add another floor to your home. Your city hall is an excellent resource to determine whether you can add more space to your home.
Choose the Right Design
Adding a second story in Wellesley, MA, requires ensuring the design you choose fits into your neighborhood and matches your home’s current design. Second story additions have many design options, including adding a second floor that matches the first floor footprint, installing a partial second story, or a modular second story added to the house. Your remodeling contractors in Massachusetts will help you decide which option fits best with your home, needs, and budget.
The Cost of Adding a Second Floor
Expand your living space with a 2nd story addition.
Another vital consideration for adding a second story is how much the project will cost. A second story addition is more costly than adding to the first floor, but it can offer many other advantages that make it a better return on your investment. The cost of your second story addition depends on how much square footage you are adding, where you live, what type of living space you’re adding, and other factors. Your remodeling contractors should give you a detailed estimate before moving forward with the project.
The Role of Your Contractors
When planning your addition, your remodeling contractors in Massachusetts will evaluate your home’s foundation to determine whether it can support another floor. If not, they will recommend the appropriate steps to strengthen the foundation. They will also determine which permits are required and pull them to ensure your remodel meets legal requirements.
Tips for Design
Once you’re ready to pursue your second story addition, you must focus on the design aspects. Consider adding roof pitches, overhangs, and other interesting features to avoid creating a boxy look for your home, harming its curb appeal and value. You must also consider height restrictions and ensure you have adequate support for the structure you will build. You will also need to match the windows. In some situations, you may want to consider changing the windows on the first floor to ensure you have the same windows on the first and second stories.
If you’re interested in adding a second floor in Wellesley, MA, contact us to discuss the pros and cons of this project.