Adding a second story to your home: what you need to know

Adding an extra floor to a house is a fantastic opportunity to increase your living space without taking up more of your lot. To prepare for this project under the best conditions, there are several factors that must be studied beforehand.

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To help you prepare for your home addition project, it is best to take a holistic approach. Here are some key elements to keep in mind.

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1. Evaluate your home's current interior

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Before starting any expansion work, several questions arise. It is wise to assess your home's current square footage and how it is laid out. It is common to find buildings with poor layouts that result in wasted space or a lack of storage, to name just a few issues.

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A quick assessment of the premises can help confirm whether this is the case for your building, allowing you to better plan the work you actually need.

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2. Check the structure and foundation

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If you choose to add a floor, the structure must be inspected. A structural engineer can analyze your building and provide recommendations that comply with the building code.

During these inspections, the roof should also be analyzed. Indeed, for this type of home addition, different methods may be considered depending on its location and the condition of the roof.

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Soil analysis may also be required when planning a home addition. As a precaution, it is recommended to consult with specialists. We can suggest companies based on the specific needs of your project. They will provide recommendations to protect your foundation.

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3. Consult municipal standards

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When it comes to home additions, every municipality has its own rules. In the city of Montreal, each neighborhood has its own specific regulations. These regulations govern factors such as window size and placement, permitted exterior finishes, and more.

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This step therefore involves checking the municipal building codes that apply to your area, or letting the professionals working on your project handle it for you.

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Evaluate your home addition options

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Adding a floor to your home requires various areas of expertise and careful planning. The next step in the process is to partner with qualified and experienced professionals to ensure your project is carried out under the best possible conditions.

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We would be happy to assist you if you would like personalized information regarding your home addition project.