| However, you should keep in mind that building any | | | | Before removing the roof of your home, you will |
| home addition is a major enterprise and that building | | | | need to plan for potential obstacles that will need to |
| a second story is not a simple undertaking. Here are | | | | be addressed. For example: |
| a few things to consider. | | | | - What is the size of the ceiling joists? Can they |
| Verify the local zoning laws of your neighborhood. | | | | support a second floor? |
| Some zoning laws restrict the construction of second | | | | - Are there mechanical elements such as plumbing, |
| floor addition because it will impact the aesthetics of | | | | electrical and HVAC running on the top of existing |
| the neighborhood or create other issues to adjacent | | | | ceiling joists? |
| properties. | | | | - Are there any utilities attached to the existing roof |
| Local building codes should also be examined to | | | | and how much overhang does it have? |
| ensure that a second floor addition onto an existing | | | | - Is the roof sheeting made of plywood or 1x |
| single story home is allowed. One thing to consider is | | | | boards? |
| the home's existing foundation. In order to determine | | | | - How many layers of shingles are on the existing |
| if the foundation can support a second floor, you will | | | | roof? |
| need to enlist the help of a building inspector, | | | | - Are there any stacks or flues protruding through |
| foundation contractor or an architect who will | | | | the roof such as vent pipes, fireplace chimney or |
| examine the existing foundation. Adding a second | | | | furnace flue? |
| story onto a ranch style home will create significantly | | | | The mechanical infrastructure of your home will also |
| more load on the concrete footing and the | | | | need to be carefully examined. Elements such as the |
| foundation walls. The footings and foundation walls | | | | heating, plumbing and electrical will need to be |
| are typically built wider and stronger for two story | | | | upgraded and modified to support the second story |
| homes which means that you will most likely need to | | | | addition. Typically, a larger furnace and electrical panel |
| reinforce your existing foundation. | | | | will need to be installed. |