Your Guide to Second Story Additions

A second-story addition is an excellent way to add space and value to your home. But before you get started, it’s important that you make yourself fully aware of what is involved in adding a second story, from the process duration to your family’s living arrangements. 

In order to make your home improvement project a stress-free affair, it’s essential to seek the expert advice of an experienced home remodeler that offers second-story addition services in San Diego. In the following article, take a closer look into what this type of home improvement entails.

How long does it take to build a second-story addition?

A second story addition is one of the most elaborate construction projects there is, and requires a qualified and experienced remodeling contractor to complete. All the aspects of building a second story addition will depend as much on the size of the home as on your requirements, but also the weather conditions. This is because there are so many elements that need to be addressed before the works can even begin. 

Typically, it requires up to nine months for any contractor worth their salt to finish this type of addition. What’s more, if you want hardwood floors in your new space, prepare yourself for an additional four or five months beyond this minimum timeframe required by most contractors. This means it may take up to a year until completion if you’re adding a second story living space with wood flooring. However, it’s important to note that the exact duration of your project will depend on your specific requirements, as well as the contractor you hire and their unique process.

Can you live in a house while adding a second story?

If you happen to live in a large home that perhaps has a guesthouse, you may continue to live on your property as the project gets underway. However, even then, people choose to live elsewhere until the construction is complete. While some home improvement projects allow you to close off certain parts of the house, this is highly unlikely with a project of this magnitude.

Professionals will typically advise that you make other living arrangements. This is done for the safety of you and your family, but also to speed up the project process. That way, you’ll guarantee your second story addition keeps up to the schedule and is finished on time.

So, plan your living arrangement for when your home is in construction mode. You may be able to stay with a relative or a friend or opt for a hotel or a rental. Make sure you plan these costs in advance, as this will be a significant part of your expenses during this type of project.

Who offers the best second story addition services in San Diego & the vicinity? 

There are numerous benefits of second story additions as long as you make sure it’s the best solution for your family’s needs. Perhaps it makes more sense to construct it above the garage or add more space to your home by building out. To get a better sense of what goes into this type of home improvement and what the right choice for you is, consult with home remodeling and addition experts that will walk you through the entire process. 

Lars Architecture is a team of award-winning designers, project managers, and construction specialists. Whether it’s a beautiful second story or another type of addition, we’ve got you covered. Our services are available to residents in City Heights and across the San Diego region. With over three decades of experience, we’ve got what it takes to give you a home addition of your dreams. Reach out today if you’d like us to begin your home improvement journey!

5 Advantages of a Second Story Addition

Are you looking to add a second story to your home? Could this type of home improvement be the right solution for you? The decision ultimately comes down to what will work best for your family, the budget you have set aside, and most importantly, the condition of your current home in relation to the size and scope of the addition you are looking to add.

If you opt for a second story addition in San Diego, consider your lifestyle preferences. Also, keep in mind that building a second floor may take a long time. Maybe upgrading above a garage is a more viable option for you and your family. But, before you make the final decision, make sure to consider the benefits that come with second story additions. Perhaps they’ll sway you to make your decision much easier. 

What are the benefits of a second story addition?

Having two stories in your home offers numerous advantages. Here are five benefits to consider:

1. Double the size of your home

When you build out, you run the risk of your home having an uneven and somewhat uncoordinated appearance. While you may likely be able to add a room or two to your ground level, building up allows you to double the square footage of your existing home. The added space brings limitless design possibilities to arrange your space to suit your family’s needs.

2. Building up will boost your home’s value

The value of your home is determined by its livable square foot area, which ultimately determines the price of your property. A second story addition provides you with more living space, and should you choose to sell it, increases your home’s resale value.

3. You won’t lose valuable yard space

With a second story addition, you get to preserve your entire yard area on your property. So instead of ruining the garden or the outdoor kids’ play area, all that yard space stays intact. Additionally, it leaves the door open for an extra home improvement project like a new patio or an outdoor pool. 

4. Keep your family in the same neighborhood

Whatever the reason for the need for additional living space, whether it’s a growing family or a simple lifestyle change, staying in the neighborhood you’ve grown to love presents a major reason why homeowners opt for this type of home addition. By building a second story, you not only get another level to your home, but also add to the foundation you and your family have created in the community.  

5. Get creative with your extra space

Unless you built your home from the ground up, there are probably aspects of its design that aren’t in line with what you prefer. And keep in mind, tastes and styles change over time, and the designs you once loved may not work for you today. Not only will you get all that extra space to turn into a play area for the kids, a home gym, or a deluxe master suite, but you’ll get the freedom to make the space a reflection of your interior design taste.

Which contractor can perform a reliable second story addition in San Diego?

Is it time to improve your home near North Park or another part of San Diego? With over 30 years of success in the industry, you can rely on Lars Architecture for all your project ideas. Our seasoned experts will provide you with answers to how to add a second story and give tips on building a second story over a garage. 

Reach out to our team for all your home addition needs. We’ll take your idea from its inception phase and turn your vision into reality. We can assist you with ideas on how to design and build your addition so that it’s perfect for what you need. Call us today!