Additions

You can create more rooms by expanding your house horizontally or vertically. If you have a large plot of land, you can build room additions on your first floor. Alternatively, you can add a second story or an additional floor. Some elements to keep in mind:

• House foundation – Some homes cannot support a second story addition without reinforcing the foundation of the house. Your contractor should be able to tell you if anything needs to be done to your foundation in order to build your expansion.
• Survey your plot – Depending on where you live, your plot of land may actually be larger (or smaller) than what you believe. Before you expand your home, you may need to survey your plot of land to be certain you will pass city inspections.
• Purpose of the additional room(s) – Sun rooms, music rooms, and bedrooms are all built with very different materials. Be sure you let your contractor know the purpose of the extra rooms you are building.