Adding a Second Storey to Your House: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you looking to add more space to your home without sacrificing your backyard? Adding a second storey to your house is a fantastic way to achieve this. At 32 Degrees Building, we specialise in transforming homes with our award-winning building services. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the benefits, considerations, and process of adding a second storey to your home. We’ll also address frequently asked questions and specify the areas we do not service.

Why Add a Second Storey?

 

Maximise Space Without Losing Land

One of the primary reasons homeowners opt for a second storey addition is to increase living space without reducing their garden or outdoor area. This is particularly beneficial in suburban areas where land is at a premium.

Increase Property Value

A well-executed second storey can significantly boost your property’s value. It adds more bedrooms, bathrooms, and living spaces, making your home more attractive to potential buyers.

Customise Your Living Space

Adding a second storey allows you to design the new space exactly to your needs. Whether it’s additional bedrooms, a home office, or a master suite with a view, the possibilities are endless.

Considerations Before Adding a Second Storey

Structural Integrity

Before embarking on a second storey addition, it’s crucial to assess whether your home’s existing structure can support the extra weight. This typically involves consulting with a builder and/or engineer. Generally if you’re on a slab it’s good to go, however, if you’re on bearers and joists with brick piers then there may be additional structural work required which is addressed during the planning stages with the engineer.

Design and Planning

A second storey addition requires careful planning to ensure it integrates seamlessly with the existing structure. This includes architectural design, obtaining necessary council approvals, and planning the construction phases to minimise disruption. We can assist with the whole process and make it easy for you.

Budget and Costs

Adding a second storey is a significant investment. It’s essential to have a clear understanding of the costs involved, including design, materials, labour, and any additional expenses such as temporary accommodation if you need to move out during construction.

The 32 Degrees Building Process

Consultation and Design

We start with a thorough consultation to understand your needs and vision. Our experienced builder will then create detailed plans that align with your budget and preferences.

Approvals and Permits

Our team handles all the necessary council approvals and permits, ensuring your project complies with local regulations.

Construction

Our skilled builders work efficiently to complete your second storey addition with minimal disruption to your daily life. We pride ourselves on maintaining a clean and safe worksite.

Completion and Handover

Once construction is complete, we conduct a final inspection to ensure everything meets our high standards. We then hand over the keys to your newly transformed home.

FAQ

Q: How long does it take to add a second storey to a house?
A: The timeline can vary depending on the complexity of the project, but on average, it takes between 4 to 12 months from consultation to completion.

Q: Will I need to move out during construction?
A: This depends on the extent of the work and your personal preference. In some cases, it may be possible to stay in your home, but for extensive renovations, temporary accommodation might be necessary.

Q: How much does it cost to add a second storey?
A: Costs can vary widely based on the size and complexity of the addition. Download our packages for current pricing guides.

Q: Do I need council approval for a second storey addition?
A: Yes, an approval is required for a second storey addition and any external structural design changes proposed to your home. Our team will handle all the necessary paperwork and approvals on your behalf.

Areas We Do Not Service

While 32 Degrees Building provides comprehensive building services across many regions, there are areas we do not service. Our head office in Smeaton Grange allows us to efficiently serve South West & Western Sydney, the Illawarra, the Southern Highlands, the Eastern Suburbs, the North West, the North, the Inner West, and the Sutherland Shire.

Adding a second storey to your house can be a game-changer, providing the extra space you need while enhancing your property’s value. At 32 Degrees Building, we’re committed to delivering high-quality, all-inclusive building services to bring your vision to life. Contact us today to start your journey towards a bigger, better home.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit 32 Degrees Building.