If you are thinking about expanding your living space, you should consider installing a second storey on your current building. This option is favourable because you will minimise the need to utilise your outdoor space. Also, you will not experience any challenges related to zoning and maximum dwelling sizes from the local council. However, you should remember that adding a new floor is a significant construction process. Therefore, you must plan diligently before beginning the work. Here are some critical guidelines to help you ensure the success of your second story extension project.

Consider Your Home's Suitability

You should confirm that your home is suited for the installation of another floor before making any decision or plan. In simple terms, you should make sure that the current structure is sound enough to support the new storey. For instance, the foundations of the building should be resilient such that the added load will not have an adverse effect. Modern houses do not present a problem related to load-bearing, but some older homes might not have resilient foundational slabs. Also, you should evaluate whether a stairway and other features can be practically installed in your house. A registered builder or an experienced architect can help you make accurate assessments. 

Draft a Suitable Plan

You should have a draftsperson or an architect prepare a drawing of your desired building. Often, homeowners have visions of their new houses after the addition of the second storey. However, they later discover that the plan is not practical or economically feasible. When you discuss your ideas with an expert early, you will understand the best design options. The most critical issues that you should cover include the position of the stairs, the floor plan for the new storey, the height of the ceiling and the flow of natural light. Do not be overly ambitious with your construction ideas, but you should also not be afraid to explore the possibilities. 

Check the Local Regulations

Finally, you should check the local regulations on vertical extensions before commissioning construction. You might require approval from the council because this is a significant construction procedure. Also, you should know if there are regulations which might be violated by your current plan for the extension. There might be restrictions on some features that you wish to include or there could be building safety rules that you might have overlooked. For the best results, you should consult your experienced contractor for assistance when dealing with regulatory issues.