Are you looking for a way to increase the size of your home? An extension can be a perfect solution, but adding a home extension can seem daunting. It’s not just about throwing up a few walls and painting them. It requires careful planning, preparation, and knowing what steps to take. Luckily, we’ve got you covered. This article outlines six key steps you need to take when building an extension on your home. Read on to learn more about how to make your home improvement project a success.
Plan the Design
This is the first thing you must do when building an extension on your home. Without a good design, your extension can be a disaster. Therefore, you must plan and research different options to see what works best for your home. Hire a professional architect to help you develop design ideas to meet your needs if necessary.
Photo by Pride Road Manchester
Obtain Necessary Permits
You can start building once you have all the necessary approvals. Building permits are crucial since they ensure all construction is done to code. Check with your local government to understand what permits you need and how to obtain them. Also, keep a copy of all the permits and inspections.
Choose the Right Contractors
Contractors can make or break your home extension project. You must decide whether to go for all-in-one contractors or individual specialists for each step. Home extension specialists will likely be flexible to a point, but getting individual contractors will always provide you with more options. Always interview several contractors and check references. This will help you to choose the right people for the job.
Photo by Francesco Pierazzi Architects
Prepare the Site
Your contractors must clear the site where your extension will be built. This means removing trees and rocks and leveling the ground. Additionally, you must coordinate with your contractor to ensure all utility lines are protected and out of the way.
Photo by Paul Wiggins Architects
Foundation and Framing
After the site is prepared, the foundation of the extension will be laid. The foundation is the most essential step of your extension and must be designed to be strong enough to support the structure above it. Once the foundation is in place, the wing framing can begin. This will be the skeleton of the wing.
Finishing Touches
After the framing is done, the final step is, in a word, to complete the project. This includes the installation of windows, doors, insulation, electrical work, lighting, and plumbing. Finding good contractors for each, such as Crossover Roofing for your roof, will make the work go smoothly. Along the way, communicate with your contractors to maintain the project’s vision and make any necessary changes before it’s too late.
In conclusion, adding an extension to your home is a fantastic way to increase your living space without moving. Still, it is essential to follow the steps to ensure that the project’s outcome is worth all the effort, time, and money invested. By planning the design, obtaining necessary permits, choosing the right contractors, preparing the site, foundation and framing, and finishing touches, your home extension project will surely succeed. Remember to keep open communication with your contractors, and the result will surely be a beautiful and functional addition to your home.
Author Bio
Meghan Belnap is a freelance writer who enjoys spending time with her family. She loves being outdoors and researching new topics that help to expand her horizons. You can often find her buried in a good book or out looking for an adventure. You can connect with her on Facebook right here and Twitter right here.