Crucial Factors That Influence First Floor Additions Projects

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After a decade of building a new home, homeowners start feeling the necessity of additional space inside the house. This is due to kids growing up and new family members being added. In this situation, first floor additions remain the most promising solution. This blog post discusses some important factors you need to consider before getting first floor additions done.

MAIN CONSIDERATIONS FOR FIRST FLOOR ADDITIONS

Extra space can be easily added to any property with first floor additions and similar home additions in Sydney. However, some essential factors must be considered before going for this addition, and we have covered the top ones below.

COST-RELATED CONSIDERATIONS

You may not be aware, but first-floor additions are expensive for adding space inside the existing home. This is mainly because some demolition of the existing roof structure will be required, and construction on the first floor will lead to logistical challenges of moving materials. At the same time, you will have to keep the existing property protected while the building work is underway. The construction contractor hired for this project must prevent structural damages as much as possible and ensure that first floor additions are added without any challenges.

SITE-RELATED CONSIDERATIONS

The experts of home additions in Sydney will consider the dimensions and usage of the surrounding areas before deciding about first floor additions. The rule of thumb is that first floor additions are appropriate if there is a limited site area to add a floor at the ground level. Similarly, if the opportunity to gain views is not available from the ground floor, first floor additions will become a necessity. Enhanced privacy is another critical factor to consider when getting first floor additions built.

STRUCTURE-RELATED CONSIDERATIONS

Perhaps the most significant consideration while getting home additions Sydney done or first floor additions built is the structural capability of the existing building. It must be capable of supporting the load of an additional floor. Before any decision, you must get an assessment done by an experienced structural engineer as they will determine the structural capability of the existing floor and come up with a solution.

STAIRCASE-RELATED CONSIDERATION

The staircase becomes mandatory with first-floor additions, and before any decision, you will have to determine the space available for its installation. Often, people underestimate the complexity of adding a staircase to the property, and as a result, they face numerous problems later during the project. The experts of home additions in Sydney will recommend different types of staircases based on your space availability. However, in any case, careful planning will be required, which will be an expensive investment in terms of first-floor additions.

Crucial Factors That Influence Second Storey Additions Project

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A perfect solution for those who don't want to leave their location or the existing property is available as second-storey additions. They add an extra space for the growing family or can enhance the resale value or earn some extra income by renting the property. This is a fact that second-storey additions can address the need for more space in a home and several other similar needs very easily. However, there are several considerations to focus on while planning these constructions. We have covered some valuable tips on making the second-storey additions project more efficient, cost-effective and successful.

START FROM THE BOTTOM

This mainly refers to contacting a reputed home additions builder and inspecting the foundation. The inspector sent by the chosen home additions builder will determine if the existing foundation can bear the pressure of another storey. You need to assess your floor's tolerance before embarking on any project. This will allow you and the home additions builder to be clear on whether to go for another addition or not.

BE PREPARED FOR SITE DISRUPTION

Getting second storey additions built is a lengthy project, mainly if some transformations are done on the existing property. You need to understand that the timeline will be lengthy and depend on how your home additions builder approaches the extension. This will affect your daily life if you continue living in the same property. Another option is to relocate to a nearby property and allow the team to work to its fullest potential without bothering about disturbing your daily life.

SOME CHANGES IN THE EXISTING FLOOR

Second-storey additions enhance the living space and property's resale value, but you also need to understand the impact that these additions will have on the existing property. You must build a staircase from the existing storey to the second-storey additions. Similarly, several other modifications will be there, and your home additions builder will plan them in such a way that the existing floor does not face any hardship and both floors are integrated easily.

CARRY OUT IN-DEPTH RESEARCH

Adding another storey doesn't mean that the property's resale value will increase. According to top home additions builders, you must research and determine the appearance or trends prevailing in the industry. You will get an idea of what appeals to buyers and the factors that impact a property's value better than others.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT HOME ADDITIONS BUILDER

The most important research will be on choosing a reputed home additions builder. This is important, as every city is full of builders without licence or experience to comply with standards or laws. You must ensure working with a builder having an excellent professional reputation and full awareness of the local laws and standards.

Make Second Storey Additions Project Easy With These Tips

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Projects like second-storey additions or first-floor extensions are enormous and involve a lot of money. It becomes essential to get them right in the first attempt only. You can consider the following things to ensure success in the first attempt.

CHOOSE A RELIABLE AND REGISTERED BUILDER

The home additions builder selected for second storey additions should be registered and you must prioritise licenced and registered builders. Adding these new storeys to the existing property is a complex process and only the most learned and experienced professionals can do justice with the project. They will create a team of skilled architects, tradies, and engineers to complete the job.

CREATE A BLUEPRINT FIRST

This selected home additions builder should inspect the existing property and understand your requirements related to second-storey additions or first-floor extensions. Based on this, they must create a blueprint that gives you an idea of what you had expected and what can be delivered. In most cases, home addition builders exceed your expectations and offer something that you never imagined. They aim to make the area more open, spacious, and ventilated and add features you had never heard of for your family's comfort.

INSURANCE PROTECTION

Engaging in projects like second-storey additions without insurance is a huge mistake. Experts recommend getting insurance protection before initiating the construction process, and this insurance will cover any damages occurring during second-storey additions. You will stay protected from expensive blowouts to costs after getting insurance protection.

FOLLOW COUNCIL BUILDING REGULATIONS

You will be able to claim insurance on any mishap only if the team there was following council building regulations strictly. This also involves getting approvals from the local council regarding adding second-storey additions or first floor extensions to your existing property. This will also involve getting the design approved by the local council.

You must also consider incorporating energy-efficiency features in second-storey additions to trim down energy consumption and do something for your environment. The cost of making your second-storey additions energy efficient will depend on certain factors such as the design and layout and the materials used in the project. Energy efficiency-related features and other technologies will also influence the level of energy efficiency achieved.

What Advantages Come Along With Second Story Additions?

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More space is a major reason why people opt for second-story additions. Some are more concerned about the scenic views of the surroundings and want to experience them without sacrificing yard space. The ideal solution for them are second-story additions. This construction can transform your living space and elevate the looks completely. There are so many benefits of second story additions and we have discussed the best one here.

AMAZING BENEFITS OF SECOND STOREY ADDITIONS

YOU MAXIMISE LIVING SPACE

Getting a second-story addition constructed by a home additions company can enhance the living space in your property immediately. According to the experts, this is a brilliant solution for growing families who need extra bedrooms, bathrooms and privacy without consuming the property's yard space.

PRESERVE THE OUTDOOR

With projects like second story additions, a home additions company in Sydney ensures that the outdoor space on the ground floor is not consumed at all. It is a precious outdoor area that your kids use as a playing spot, and you can preserve it completely by expanding the home upwards. You will not have to sacrifice your garden, patio, or kid's play area to accommodate the growing family.

BOOST PROPERTY'S VALUE

Second-story additions built according to the laws by a home additions company in Sydney will suddenly boost your property's value. The additional square footage and modern design will appeal to potential buyers, and they will happily agree to the cost you quoted. This construction becomes a wise investment in the long run.

YOU ENJOY PANORAMIC VIEWS

By constructing upwards, you can enjoy the scenic beauty of your surroundings. A second-story addition will open up opportunities for breathtaking views that will transform your home into a private sanctuary. Experts from Sydney's chosen home additions company will give you every opportunity to customise your space. You can create bedrooms with interiors of your choice; in other words, the possibilities are endless.

To achieve all these benefits, you must closely coordinate with the chosen home additions company Sydney. The professionals will help you navigate the unique challenges and make your project flawless and completely stress-free. They will also allow you to customise the property to match it seamlessly with the existing property. They will add your unique style to your addition and ensure that the natural light and ventilation are flawless in the new construction.

Innovative Ideas to Use Second Story Additions of Your Property

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If you have a rapidly growing family, believe me second storey additions will be a great investment. They are a wonderful way to expand the space, maximise the square footage and give adequate privacy and space to every family member. Second storey additions ideas are countless, and there is no end to the creativity on how to use this area. We have covered some top ideas in this post.

SETTING UP AN OFFICE

The second storey can be used to create a new office, and this is a brilliant idea after the advent of the covid-19 pandemic. This was the time, when the entire globe was working from home and now hybrid working has become a new trend.

To set up an office on this floor, you can ensure an ample supply of natural light, and all modern amenities are present to keep you comfortable while working.

ADDING A NEW PLAYROOM

Believe me your kids will thank you for their entire life if you take advantage of second storey additions to add a playroom for them. Again, ample supply of natural light has to be ensured by using bigger windows and for additional safety, you can keep them fully sealed.

PROVIDE MORE SPACE FOR FAMILY MEMBERS

Additional bedrooms in first floor additions and second storey additions will give more space to your growing family. Additional bedrooms in these areas mean decongesting the ground floor and giving space and privacy to every family member. Your family members will live in their private space without interfering in each other’s lives.

CREATING ADDITIONAL STORAGE SPACE

The second storey additions can be used to create additional storage rooms, and this is a really smart move. With a growing family, additional products and possessions are required, and to accommodate them comfortably, more storage space is needed. The second storey additions can have additional storage space along with additional bedrooms to accommodate more belongings without any issue.

CREATING A GUEST ROOM

One of the most significant benefits of second storey additions is that they can be used to create dedicated guest rooms. In other words, your guests will have a dedicated space to live comfortably with modern amenities like a bathroom, a toilet, a balcony and modern interiors.

Additionally, creating a study room, walk-in closets, or a complete bathroom is also great for using second story additions and first floor additions in the right way. Study rooms can be accommodated with the office space to let kids concentrate on their studies while keeping an eye on them. Walk-in closets mean families will have a full bathroom with modern installations to enjoy the shower.

How to Get Council Approvals for Home Additions in Australia?

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When a family extends, every homeowner feels the necessity of a bigger property to accommodate every family member and offer deserving privacy to everyone. This is easily possible with home additions, as it allows the homeowner to update the property and make it more spacious, open and ideal for every family member. At the same time, the construction work must be carried out as per the council approvals and laws. For homeowners, these laws and the approval process can be overwhelming, and this is where the home addition contractors can be beneficial.

Since they are closely associated with the industry, they are fully updated with the latest laws and rules related to home additions, first floor additions, second-floor additions, etc. They must also take it as their responsibility to get the necessary council approvals and get paperwork cleared before the construction process.

WHY DO WE NEED COUNCIL APPROVALS?

Councils from different states have different rules and laws regarding the projects that need council approval. Hence, the homeowner must check with the local council or rely upon the construction contractor for this information. It is worth understanding that most internal renovations don't need any council approvals. But yes, if structural changes are involved in internal renovations, you might have to get approvals from the local council. External renovations, building works, home renovations, home additions, etc., will all require council approval, and no matter how small the project is, it is always helpful to get these approvals.

Significant extensions and projects involving substantial excavation or filling and free-standing constructions like granny flats, studios, etc., will require council approval.

WHAT IS THE PROCESS TO GET APPROVALS RELATED TO HOME ADDITIONS?

The approval process differs between councils, and you must get accurate information from your local council. Generally, the following steps are involved in the process.

• You start by contacting your local council and confirming the policies, procedures and associated fees.

• The home additions builder appoints a professional draftsman or an architect to draw the plan.

• The team from the home additions builder gets the plan approved by the building certifier.

• He approves that the plans comply with the local building codes.

A principal certifying authority is then appointed to certify your plans and be responsible for monitoring the construction process closely. His role is to ensure that the construction is done according to the plan. This principal certifying authority will also provide an occupational certificate once the construction is completed.

How to Use Second Storey Additions the Right Way for Your Family?

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It is depressing and heartbreaking for someone to vacate a property that he has been living in for a decade or two. This situation arises in every family as it grows, and members ask for more space and privacy. In such situations, first-floor additions and second-storey additions emerge as handsome options to give everyone the deserving privacy and space while enhancing the overall resale value of the property. This option is very realistic regarding increasing the square footage and using the new construction in several ways. Here is a quick post on why first-floor extensions and second-storey additions are so preferred compared to relocating to a new locality.

USE IT AS A HOME OFFICE

After the deadly COVID-19 pandemic, most companies globally have adopted a hybrid work policy by allowing their people to work from home. In this situation, people require a peaceful place in their home to use as an office to concentrate on their projects. First-floor extensions and second-storey additions answer this, as sufficient space will be there to use as an office, completely secluded from the entire family for more peace, discreetness and solace. They can ensure that it has plenty of natural light coming in, and customisations like storage, shelving, desks, etc., give it the perfect look of an office.

USE IT AS ADDITIONAL BEDROOMS

First-floor extensions or second-storey additions can also be used as extra bedrooms to accommodate your family and growing kids. These bedrooms can also be very useful for your ageing parents who now want peace and togetherness as a couple.

AN EXTRA KITCHEN

First-floor extensions and second-storey additions are perfect for those dreaming of a bigger kitchen in their property. The second storey additions can be used to have a bigger kitchen, a bigger living room and a bigger bathroom. But remember, with these areas, you might have to compromise with the size of the bedrooms or eliminate them. An extra living room is a perfect idea that will allow all your family members to sit together, watch TV and enjoy meals in each other’s company.

However, it is essential in the beginning only to confirm that the existing property can bear the weight of an additional storey. This can be done by ensuring that the existing foundation is stable, and for this, a deep inspection is recommended. The contractor chosen for first floor extensions and second storey additions will inspect the foundation closely for cracks or signs of wear and tear. He will also determine the septic system and plumbing installation and make arrangements for them on the second floor. It will be his responsibility to ensure that the upcoming building complies with local zoning laws and that all building codes are followed during construction.