A home addition is a great way to expand your living space, ideal for a growing family or if you’re taking care of extended family members. Given the scope of such projects — whether it’s a room conversion, a new story or an accessory dwelling — you’ll want to make sure it’s done right the first time around. In today’s post, DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Tyler shares some of the most common mistakes you need to avoid if you’re planning a home addition.
Doing It Yourself
Taking the DIY route can be a good solution for home repairs and small-scale projects. However, home additions have a greater scope. For example, an accessory dwelling unit (also known as granny flat or an in-law suite) is essentially a small house; a build-out involves changes to the house’s floor plan. Such projects require code compliance, as well as installing plumbing and electricity.
Taking the DIY route can result in a longer timeline and a fluctuating budget. There’s also a greater risk of making mistakes, and having them corrected by a professional would be another expense tacked on to the budget.
Ignoring the Existing Infrastructure
A new room or story has to work within the existing infrastructure, particularly if the plans involve moving around a bathroom or kitchen. Making changes to the plumbing and electricity will require more time and labor, with a corresponding increase in project cost. Make changes to the existing infrastructure unless absolutely necessary.
Not Sticking to the Plan
While it is entirely possible to make changes to a project while it’s underway, you’ll want to stick to your original plan as much as possible. This is particularly important with home additions because of how a small change can result in a domino effect. For example, changes to the planned floor plan will require new drawings, a new permit and a different amount of required materials. All of this will affect the project timeline and the project cost. Major changes to the project would be practically like starting the project anew. Working with a design/build remodeler can help make sure that your home addition plans are sound before construction begins.
Let’s Start a Conversation!
Let the remodelers at DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Tyler help you build the addition that your home deserves. To get started with a no-obligation consultation, call us at (903) 255-7111 or contact us online. We serve homeowners in Tyler, Swan, New Chapel Hill, Whitehouse and Noonday. We also serve communities in Douglas, Arp, Troup, Bullard and Flint.