Second Story Addition: What to Discuss With Your Contractor

Adding a second story to your home is a significant project. Various timelines have to be planned and considered, and with everything you need to keep track of, it can be easy to get lost in the details. That said, before you sweat the finer details, make sure that you have a good grasp of the practical considerations that you need to make.

J Bryant Boyd Architect Design-Build, one of the top design build firms in the area, lists a few practical things that you should discuss with your contractor.

Location of the Stairs

Ask your contractor regarding the best location for the stairs. This part of the project normally requires careful planning and a certain level of technical understanding, and this may tempt you to leave it all up to your contractor. However, keep in mind that you should still be involved in such matters. Inquire about it to see if you could understand and accept the company’s rationale behind their suggested location for your stairs.

Protection for the Drywall Ceiling

When the roof rafters have been taken out and your contractor starts installing the second floor, there could be a risk for your first floor ceiling to collapse. Furthermore, someone could get injured during such an unfortunate event. According to custom home builders, putting up temporary walls on the first floor are crucial to preventing ceiling collapse.

Relocation of Utilities in the Attic

You should also talk to your contractor about their solutions to extending or eliminating existing ductwork, wiring and plumbing vents. These are delicate systems that need to be carefully designed and implemented. And if other parts of your home would be affected by these changes, you should be aware of it as it might also have an impact on the total cost of the project.

Whether you need remodeling or build on your lot services, J Bryant Boyd Architect Design-Build is ready to offer their expertise. We have over 25 years of experience in the industry, so we can ensure quality results for your home improvement project. Call us at (512) 980-9967 or fill out our contact form to request a consultation. We serve customers in Georgetown, Texas.