Building a Second Floor Addition versus a Room Addition

 

Building a Second Floor Addition Key Considerations

 

First, it may not even be feasible to build a second floor addition onto the home. Local codes need to be checked to see if building a second story addition is even possible. For example, local zoning laws may not allow for a second floor addition due to such things as impacting the aesthetics of the neighborhood or for creating shade issues on neighboring properties. Also, local building codes may be such that the construction of a second floor addition onto the existing single story home may not be allowed.

 

For example, there may be issues with the home’s existing foundation.  The existing foundation will need to be inspected by the local building inspector, foundation contractor, or an architect to determine if the foundation can support a second floor addition.  Concrete footings and foundation requirements usually vary on the type of home being built. Building a second story addition onto a ranch style home creates significantly more load on the concrete footings and foundation walls. Consequently the footings and foundation walls are typically built wider and stronger for two story homes.

 

Building a Room Addition - Advantages

 

With a room addition construction project, on the other hand, the homeowner can be kept isolated from most of the construction until the room addition is nearly complete. In some cases, the entire room addition is completed prior to “punching into” the existing home with a doorway / entranceway.

 

Finally, although every attempt is made to maintain the integrity of the first floor of the home, inherently there are risks of damage to the first floor ceilings and walls. Ceilings frequently are damaged while the second floor addition is being constructed.

 

 

Building a second floor addition is not an impossible undertaking. However, it does require more up front homework and presents more risk to the existing home structure while being constructed. To conclude, if your lot size is small, then a second floor addition maybe your only choice. If on the other hand your lot size is large enough to support an attached room addition, it is probably your better bet, both from cost and inconvenience perspectives.