Planning your second story addition project

Alright, you’re stoked about your second story addition and ready to dive into the nitty-gritty of planning.

We get it, and it’s a big project with much to consider.

But don’t stress—we’re here to help you understand all the key factors that will make your addition successful.

We’ll cover everything from nailing down your budget to picking out materials that’ll make your space sing.

So grab a notepad, and let’s get cracking!

Determining your budget and project scope

Before planning your second story addition, get honest about your budget. 

Sit down and crunch the numbers to determine how much you can spend on this project. Remember to factor in a little wiggle room for unexpected expenses that might pop up along the way.

Once you have a budget, it’s time to start dreaming up your ideal second-story addition. Think about how you want to use the space and what features are must-haves.  Do you need an extra bedroom or two?  A luxurious master suite?  A cozy home office?  Make a wish list and then work with your home addition contractor to prioritize what’s feasible within your budget.

What if you need to know what it will cost and just want a budget number to review?  BLM Construction and Remodling, LLC can provide a free estimate to start the discussion!

Aligning your design with your existing home architecture

Ensuring the design jives with your home’s existing architecture is essential when planning your second-story addition.  You don’t want it to look like some wonky add-on that doesn’t belong!

We always tell our clients to aim for a seamless blend of old and new.  The goal is to create an addition that looks like it was always meant to be there, with matching exterior materials, window styles, and rooflines.

Incorporating energy efficiency and sustainability

If you want your second-story addition to be stylish and eco-friendly, incorporate energy efficiency and sustainability. We always encourage our clients to think green when planning their projects because it’s a win-win for their wallets and the planet.

Here are some excellent ways to make your addition more energy-efficient and sustainable:

• Install high-performance windows and insulation to keep your space cozy and reduce energy bills
• Choose eco-friendly materials like bamboo flooring or recycled glass countertops
• Incorporate solar panels or a green roof to harness renewable energy and lower your carbon footprint

Trust us, with a little extra planning and suitable materials, you can create a second-story addition that’s not only gorgeous but also kind to the environment. 

It’s all about making intelligent choices that pay off in the long run!

Choosing Materials That Balance Aesthetics and Durability

When choosing materials for your second-story addition, you want options that look amazing but withstand daily wear and tear. That’s why we always recommend picking finishes that perfectly balance style and sturdiness.

Here are some of our favorite materials that combine the best of both worlds:

• Hardwood floors that add warmth and character while being easy to clean and maintain
• Quartz countertops that mimic the beauty of natural stone but are scratch and stain-resistant
• Fiber cement siding gives you the charming look of wood without the risk of rot or pests

You want your second-story addition to be a space you adore spending time in but also one that can handle the realities of everyday life. Choosing materials that marry aesthetics and durability will create a beautiful and practical space you’ll enjoy for years.

Zoning laws and building permits might seem daunting, but make sure to make your second-story dreams a reality. 

Let’s tackle this challenge head-on and get you one step closer to your ideal home.

Navigating zoning laws and building permits

Before we get too carried away with our grand plans for your second-story addition, we must talk about the not-so-fun but super-important stuff: zoning laws and building permits.

We know it’s not the most thrilling part of the process, but getting this right is crucial to avoiding significant headaches.

Identifying local regulations and restrictions

Before planning your second-story addition, you should do some homework on local zoning laws and building regulations.  Every city and county has its own rules about what you can and can’t do with your property, so it’s crucial to get familiar with the specifics of your area.

Your contractor should be well-versed in navigating these regulations, but brushing up on the basics yourself is okay. 

Here’s what you’ll want to look into:

• Height restrictions and setback requirements for second-story additions
• Lot coverage limitations and floor area ratio (FAR) maximums
• Design guidelines and historic preservation rules, if applicable
• Storm Water Management requirements
• Septic design upgrades 

Once you’ve got a handle on the local regulations, you can start crafting a plan for your addition that fits within those parameters. Trust us; the last thing you want is to get halfway through your project only to find out you’re violating some obscure zoning law!

Working With Your Contractor to Secure Necessary Permits

Once you’ve nailed down the zoning laws and building regulations for your second-story addition, it’s time to tackle the permit process. This is where having a rockstar contractor comes in handy.  They’ll know precisely which permits you need and how to navigate the application process like a pro.

Your contractor will work closely with you to gather all the necessary documents, from detailed construction plans to energy efficiency reports.  They’ll ensure everything is in order before submitting your permit applications so you can sit back and let them handle the heavy lifting. 

Before you know it, you’ll have all the stamps of approval you need to kick off your addition project!

Planning for potential variances or special permissions

Sometimes, even the best-laid plans for a second-story addition can hit a snag regarding zoning laws or building regulations.  If your dream design doesn’t fit the standard guidelines, you may need to apply for a variance or special permission from your local planning department.

This is where having a contractor who knows their stuff can be a lifesaver. They can help you navigate the variance process, from gathering supporting documents to presenting your case at a public hearing. With their expertise and a compelling argument for why your addition deserves special consideration, you’ll be well on your way to securing the green light for your project.

Zoning laws and building permits?  Check!  It’s time to unleash your creativity and design the second story of your dreams.

BLM Construction and Remodeling, LLC is the premier Addition Specialist locally in a neighborhood near you!  

Reach out to us for your free estimate!

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