The Benefits of Second Story Additions

If the household is getting bigger, your house might need to get taller. It makes sense more often than not to add a second story addition when you find need of a bigger house. There are a lot of things to consider when considering a decision like this, and while it might seem overwhelming, a home remodeling project of this sort has many benefits. Here are three that we’ve found over the years at Dean Johnson Remodeling.

No need to move

You like your home, right? If so, then giving it height means you won’t have to find a new house. By adding on, you’ll not only increase the value of your home, but you won’t have to leave it.

Opportunity to modernize

Adding a second story gives you the opportunity to lighten and brighten through opening spaces, the addition of windows, higher ceilings, etc. It can also radically change, for the better, your home’s exterior look.

Design time

It’s yours to do with it what you will. You’ll have an infinite amount of opportunities to design the interior to meet your desires and needs. 

How to Find a Home Remodeling Contractor

It’s not always easy to select a home remodeling contractor. The Dean Johnson Remodeling team has been in the industry long enough to know that this can be a stressful time as there are many things you have to do in order to get the project done correctly. So, when you’re hiring a home remodeler, keep the following in mind, as it will make things a lot easier for you.

Friends and family can you lead in the right direction

Do you have any friends or relatives who have recently undertaken a home remodel? Ask them who they used, and see how satisfied they were. You might get a great lead on who to use, or a tip on which contractors to avoid.

Best doesn’t always mean the cheapest

Examine carefully the bids and proposals you receive. The cheapest one might use materials that aren’t of the highest quality, so take a close look at the paperwork.

Permitting is important

Will the project involve digging, or adding on to your existing structure? Then make sure the contractor obtains the proper permits and clearances. Otherwise, you could face fines.

Dean Johnson Remodeling is a Minneapolis home remodeling company that can be found at www.DeanJohnsonRemodeling.com. 

Home Remodeling FAQ

Here are some of the more common questions the Dean Johnson Remodeling staff gets asked about our home remodeling services:

How much will it cost to remodel my home?

There is no easy or one exact answer. It depends upon the project’s size and scope, as well as the chosen materials, room size and age of the infrastructure. If you receive a bid that is “too good to be true,” then it probably is. Pick carefully when selecting the contractor based on bids. (Read our blog next week to learn about how to choose a home remodeling contractor).

Should I plan to spend more than the price that was contracted?

Put aside an extra 10% as “just in case” money. You might have to break this piggy bank if there are unforeseen changes or work that needs to be done. Setting aside these funds will ensure a less stressful home remodel.

Should I try doing the project myself?

Well …

• Do you like manual labor?
• Are you patient? Or do unforeseen circumstances have the tendency to bug you?
• If the project goes longer than anticipated, will this bother you?
• Can you handle the job yourself or will you need assistance?
• Are you skilled enough to handle a project like the one you’re planning?

Ask yourself these questions. If you’re thinking about doing the project as a way to save money, then stop. You’ll end up spending more than you would if you had hired a contractor.