The Dos and Don’ts of Home Extensions

When people buy or build homes for the first time, they only go for structures that will meet their current needs. They rarely foresee the possibility of outgrowing that space when they have more kids, host friends or have other relatives staying over. Such instances make you see your house for what it really is, and you might start thinking about what you can do to get more space. Luckily, you don't have to worry about breaking the bank to get more space for your loved ones. A well-executed home extension project is all you need to solve your problems. Here are some of the dos and don'ts for a successful home extension project: 

Dos

Get a Good Design

The first step to extending your home is the design. What kind of modification do you want to make to the home? Do you want to use the additional space as a storage facility, garage, bedroom or entertainment room? These questions will guide you when choosing a design. Home extension designs range from L-shaped lofts to high-rising attics in the roof to basement areas. The design you choose must add value to your home, enhance circulation of air and create more room. A bad design not only limits good living but also leads to significant financial loss. 

Have a Detailed Plan 

Home extension involves modification to an existing structure. You need a detailed plan that will help you anticipate challenges in the course of the project. Begin with the most essential part: the foundation. Work with your builder to identify the best method for supporting your foundation. Ideally, you should choose helical piers because they are easy to install and excellent and handling lateral and axial building loads. After that, you can go over the rest of the house to decide the walls you would like to remove, add or extend to add more space to the house. 

Don'ts 

Going through the Development Applications by Yourself

Some home extension modifications require approval from relevant building regulators within your locality. If you go through the application process alone, you are likely to miss a few things. Just let a home extension specialist do the application for you so that you can cover all the minor details of the extension project. 

Making Changes During the Project

When carrying out a home extension project, refrain from making changes when the work is already in progress. You need to write down all your extension needs at the beginning of the project so that your builders know the methods and materials to use based on your needs.    


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