Angie Olloren

Test task for VP Builds Things to Consider When Adding a Second Floor to Your Home You could almost say it’s a rite of passage. Every parent who’s had a growing family eventually encounters the need for additional space, right around the time when the eldest kid begins first grade. Suddenly, the ample space that seemed ok for a newborn is taken over by bicycles, toys and even the dog seems to occupy more floor area too. A homeowner faced with this situation has two options. You could either move out and get a larger house, or as many opt to do, build a second floor pop up. Having a second floor versus moving out also helps keep down the overall cost of a project. Here in Northern VA I’ve had extensive experience helping homeowners navigate the tricky twists and turns to building an adequate second floor. What most don’t realize at the start is that building a second floor pop up can be just as time consuming as building a new house from scratch. Each county has its own regulations. Sometimes they change per street, so it’s always good to start consultation with a structural engineer to get an idea of how much work needs to be done before actual construction begins. Costing is another vital consideration. Now that you know that adding a second floor is comparable to building a new house from scratch, you’ll also need to make a larger allowance for the project that you may have originally envisioned. The questions you’ll be asking your builder depend on what you need out of your second floor. Are you just expanding an attic by adding dormers and making it a pre-teen bedroom? Or do you see something grander such as a master bedroom with an en suite bathroom? You’ll also have to decide where to put in your staircase to connect your second floor to the rest of the house. Some homeowners use this renovation to add drama by building a majestic staircase, while others opt for a plainer one. Many of the clients I’ve worked with are satisfied with the location of the neighborhood they’re in. If you are lukewarm about where you currently live, it might make more sense to research moving into a larger home to the neighborhood you prefer rather than commit to the time and effort it will take to build a second floor. Working with your builder and giving them your time frame for this type of project is the final factor in determining the doability of the items on your checklist. Want a higher ceiling? More windows on that wall? Or maybe a detailed interior to beautify your expanded space. Deciding to have a second floor pop up is a sign that your life is expanding, and along with it your family’s need for space. I won’t lie and say it’ll be as easy as nailing a few planks to your existing foundation. When looking for a builder to work with, you’ll definitely want someone who will be deeply involved from the planning stage all the way to the finishing touches.