Does your home feel too small? Well, from time to time, one needs change. You probably need a bigger office, a different home care room, work from a home office, a kitchen, and you feel the need to have a bigger home. Moving can be hectic, and also, besides that, you may not want to relocate from your current home based on other factors. If there is room for expansion, then with a building permit, you can remodel your space and make the necessary additions. Here are some tips on how to do it:
1. Get The Necessary Permits
Major structural modifications will need a permit before you can begin working. Different states have different rules. Therefore, it is your responsibility to have a home building inspector give the go-ahead on the work.
An approval protects you from being on the wrong side of the law, and it also enhances the safety of the occupants. However, if the inspector pointed out some red flags concerning the addition, you can correct those problems and call them in for a second inspection. If they are satisfied with the corrections, you will get your permit and proceed with the work.
2. Consider A Loft
Conducting a loft conversion is one of the most manageable and trendy ways of extending your home and taking advantage of unused space. If you have been yearning for an extra living room, lounge, office space, or attic bedroom, this might be it. A loft can be a great addition to homes with high ceilings. You can add an extra storage area or even a functional living space. Additionally, the occupants may also enjoy the view from up there. You will have to add ventilation or windows, insulate the walls, reinforce the floor, and furnish as desired.
3. Finish Your Basement
A finished basement is another popular option to add extra living space, a gym, a game room, a library, a pantry, a home bar, etc. If you already have an existing basement, the renovation costs will not be too high.
Depending on the choice of room addition that you need, each may require different levels of plumbing or electrical work done on them. For example, adding a kitchen may need more of those than adding a library. Therefore, it is necessary to consider your budget before doing so. Again, if you do not have a basement, digging out is the other option to set up that extra space which is also a very expensive investment. Essentially, this is why you will need a building permit to ensure that it is done safely.
4. Get Rid of The Fireplace
The fireplace has almost lost its glory in most modern homes. Most modern contractors do not consider it a fancy addition, especially with the many options of modern heating equipment available. Furthermore, all you want is to maximize your living room floor space. Therefore, if you live in one of those traditional homes, it is possible to easily knock out the chimney, especially if it is not load-bearing. A proficient building contractor should be able to point this out and advise accordingly on how to phase it out without damaging your home.
5. Consider A Garage Conversion
Doing a garage conversion adequately means getting rid of parking and storage. However, a garage conversion can add adequate living space, kitchen, or home gym without diminishing your equally essential yard space.
The fact that a car fits in also means that you might not need to enlarge the room, making it a perfect room for conversion. A garage conversion will mostly need a new interior fit-out and a few modifications depending on the space you want to convert it to.
6. Under-Stairs Area Conversion
The area under the staircase can often make a good storage addition, especially for extra shelves or cabinets, or office space. It is possible to reclaim that space and free space in other areas as long as you have adequate floor space. If you need extra lighting, especially office space, hire an electrician to fix that seamlessly.
Before making additions to your existing home, ensure that you have all the facts in mind depending on your expansion. Each conversion needs a different modification, and you should ensure that it works within your budget.