Second-Story Additions in Seattle, WA

Frequently Asked Questions About Second-Story Additions

Q: When Should I Add a Second Story vs. Move vs. Bump Out the Main Floor?

The biggest reason homeowners choose to add a second story instead of moving into a two-story house is that they love where they live. For many, it makes more sense to remodel their ideally located home than to uproot the family by moving. This decision can also be more cost-effective and ensures the new square footage meets your needs without compromise. 

A second-story addition isn’t the only option for increasing your home’s square footage. Another popular choice is to bump out the main floor. However, if space is limited on your property, building up rather than out could be a better choice to preserve your outdoor living space.

Read more about whether a home addition is right for you and your property here.

Q: What Should  I Consider When Adding a Second Story?

It’s easy to plan a home addition on paper, but there are many logistics to consider. Better Builders will help you answer the following questions early in the planning phase to determine the feasibility of your project:

Q: Do HOA regulations allow you to add a second story?

One of the first steps is to contact your homeowner’s association to find out if a second-story addition is even allowed. 

Q: Can the existing structure support the extra weight?

Before anyone lifts a hammer, you must determine whether the foundation and load-bearing walls can support a second story. If not, you need to modify the existing structure or pursue a different type of home addition.

Q: How will adding a second story affect your home’s layout?

You need to decide where you’ll position the stairs and whether you want to move any rooms from the ground floor to the new second story. This could significantly affect your home’s layout and traffic flow. Read more about space planning 101.

Q: Is it feasible to alter the plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems?

These systems are vital to your home’s comfort and functionality, so be prepared to extend, expand, or upgrade them if you add a second story.

Q: How will the old materials and finishes blend with the new ones?

The goal is to make your second-story addition look like it’s been there from the very beginning. This requires choosing complementary materials and finishes inside and out. This could be a chance to replace the siding, install new windows, or upgrade the floors for a flawless match.