A second story addition is an appealing form of a home extension for many reasons. It’s a significant consideration many favour because it delivers more space without sacrificing the backyard or front yard. It can also increase the value of a home by adding more space while potentially introducing views to the first floor.
However, there are a few things you should acknowledge before you commit to this type of home extension. While second story additions have many benefits, you should also be well-informed so you can understand the entire process and the results that are achieved. Before adding another story to your home, keep reading to see the main points you should know.
Ability to change your existing floor plan completely
Adding a second level to your home provides flexibility for your family. By converting your home from a single-level build to a double story, it will generate additional floor space to redesign the floor plan of the entire house from scratch. This new space allows you to create a modern open-plan design that compliments your lifestyle.
The new upstairs level can be used to relocate existing bedrooms. The additional space can also be used to establish additional rooms, such as bedrooms, bathrooms and living areas. Many owners take this opportunity to upgrade the main bedroom by creating a parent’s retreat. This can include an ensuite and walk-in wardrobe.
Transferring the bedrooms upstairs allows you to dedicate downstairs to your living and entertaining areas. Maximising the space on the lower floor will deliver you the living spaces you desire while providing room to grow.
This type of home extension also allows you to extend the kitchen, knock down interior walls, or open the living spaces to achieve a more free and airy space. A second story addition offers a great opportunity to renovate all existing wet areas and update your home entirely.
The exterior of your home changes as much as the interior
With a second story addition, the inside of your home isn’t the only thing that changes – the exterior of your home is also impacted significantly. Adding a second story will change the look of your home on the outside. It’s important to consider what you want the exterior of your home to look like. It may also impact the amount of sunlight you get in your backyard.
When building with SBS Building Services, we cater to your home’s interior and exterior. Our designers will analyse your existing design to propose and draft a new layout that will cohesively blend with your initial build. We strive to provide you with a home you can appreciate both inside and outside. Alternatively, we can provide you with a new look entirely. As you update and modernise the layout of your home, you may want to do the same for the exterior instead of matching the home’s original features, which is ideal for older or outdated home designs. Transforming and changing the facade of your home will also enhance the overall street appeal.
Adding a second story does take time
Average time frames – Design process avg 1-3 months Approval 1-3 months avg Ordering materials 1-2 months construction 3-4 months or up to 12 months depending on size of project.
Similar to many home renovations in Sydney, a quality second story addition will take time, especially since it’s a massive structural change to the home. A detailed process such as a second story addition should not be rushed as there is plenty to review and consider.
It’s best to expect the process to take 3-4 months on average to complete. More comprehensive projects with potential delays can take up to 12 months. It is important to note that every home rebuild is unique and the time frame will vary depending on the size of the project.
As you are altering your home significantly, you will want a second story addition that is tailored to you and your property. You also want the new addition to seamlessly connect to the original build without looking out of place. The council approval process can be extensive with a major renovation and extension. This makes it essential that you choose the right builder to keep the process going smoothly.
The team at SBS Building Services are expert home builders, familiar with the many stages involved in home extensions such as this. Our complete end-to-end service makes the process easy, and our team will be with you for the entirety of the process.
From the initial conversation to the finished result. We take the time to understand your wants and needs to produce a home that is functional and a design that suits your style and taste.
You can sometimes to live in your home during construction 75% of people do live there
For most home extensions, including second story additions, you can continue to live in your home during construction. Most home builders understand the imposition construction has on your daily life and will try and keep the disruptions to a minimum
However, there are situations where you may need to leave your home temporarily, depending on how extensive your build is. Depending on the scope of your project, you may be required to leave temporarily as your home may be unsafe to occupy during certain stages of your extension. So ensure you discuss this with your builder and make preparations if you need to.
At the start of your build, we will let you know whether this is required once your plans are reviewed. SBS Building Services strives to limit disruption, and our team will keep you informed with weekly meetings.
Adding an additional story to your home can be daunting. However, our team will make the entire process as stress-free as possible. If you are considering extending your home with a second story, contact us to discuss your project.
Fully licensed and insured, SBS Building Services are the highest recommended home extension builders. With over 30 years of experience, we serve residents in the Hills District, Lower North Shore, Upper North Shore and North West Sydney. With our team, you can expect high-quality workmanship and exceptional customer service. You are in safe hands with us.