It’s easy to envision what an addition will look like on paper, but you must consider the logistics of building onto your house if you want the project to be a success. Here’s what Total Home Solutions recommends you keep in mind:
Code requirements
From structural integrity to fire safety, it’s essential to work with a contractor who understands all the required codes for building a home addition.
HOA regulations
If your Montgomery County or Main Line neighborhood is run by a homeowner’s association, you need to find out what restrictions are in place that could limit your design options.
HVAC system
Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning equipment must extend into the add-on to ensure comfort in every season. This may require a system upgrade to handle the increased load, or you might be able to use a ductless mini-split to provide efficient heating and cooling without installing more ductwork.
Traffic flow and layout
A home addition often involves modifying some of the original floor plan to make the added square footage as useful as possible. This can affect traffic flow, especially if you’re making a second-story addition that requires a new staircase. Careful planning early in the design process determines the feasibility of the add-on you have in mind.
Materials and finishes
The goal is to make it appear as though the addition has always been there. This means selecting materials and finishes that match your existing home, both inside and out. This could be your chance to replace the siding, windows, flooring, and wall coverings so the old and new sections of the home blend together seamlessly.
Our Suggested Solutions
Bump outs: expand your home’s footprint with a main-floor master suite or kitchen addition.
Dormers: reconfigure your roofline and add windows, creating space for additional bathroom or bedroom.
Second story additions: add a partial or full second story to your home. We’ll engineer the walls and foundation to support the new floor.
Sunroom: this addition provides another option for enjoying the view while remaining protected from the elements year-round!
