Room Additions

Need more space? Room additions deliver

Room additions encompass expanding your home´s existing footprint to accommodate entirely new rooms, bump out existing rooms to improve functionality, or literally raise the roof and add living space in a second floor attic space. Each house is different with a different foundation and structural requirements, as well as having a different style with unique characteristics. Room additions are not usually a weekend do-it-yourself project. Because additions are so customized, it´s difficult to say what your project will run per square foot, but it´s likely to be at least $100 and may go up depending on a variety of factors including tie-ins to the current structure, demolition, materials, and desired finishes.

To get your project off the ground, you can work with an architect and general contractor, or with a design/build remodeler.

For a conventional project, design/build remodelers may be the better choice because they can design with costs in mind. This makes it possible to get good design and construction at a reasonable cost by eliminating the higher design fees of an architect. The result is a focused project designed within your specified budget.

However, if design considerations are a primary concern, and cost is no impediment, then hiring an architect can get you cutting edge design and unique or unusual applications of innovative materials.

To make the most of your room addition project, keep the following tips in mind:

• Evaluate the builder or architect´s design portfolio carefully. Do they have experience with your type of structure, materials, location? Are they local with an understanding of the various environmental characteristics of your area? Does your mental model of what you want match what they are presenting in their portfolio?
• Get several estimates.
• Ask for references. Get addresses for completed projects, then drive by and inspect the work.
• Verify references. Find out if the homeowner would hire the remodeler, contractor, or architect again. If there were any problems with quality of the work or in their dealings with them during the project, how were they resolved?
• Before you sign anything, read the contract. Make sure that there is a warranty period of at least one year and is inclusive of materials and workmanship. Make sure materials specified in the estimate are reflected in the contract. If you have questions or doubts, ask the builder to clarify issues. Negotiate until you are both satisfied. The complete scope of work should be detailed and provision for additional charges should be specified.
• Make sure the design/builder is licensed and insured. Obtain copies of licensing and insurance.

Plan carefully and thoroughly and don´t hire your builder in a hurry. Take your time to get the right remodeling pro for your project.