Steps To Planning Your Home Addition

To be honest, planning your home addition can be a bit frightening. Especially if you have never taken part or witnessed one through its various stages. Thankfully, you are in luck, We’ll introduce some things you probably haven’t thought about. While defining other areas that you might have only thought about briefly. At the end, you’ll be more knowledgeable and more prepared about your home addition.

Solving Your Home’s Problems

Planning your home addition is only brought about by one thing; your home is lacking space! it is rare to find a flawless home. In this case, a room addition is likely to be the perfect solution! However, each home addition is unique. So, we will need to define your home’s specific space problem before we can fix it. Here are some common wish-list items for home additions:

Increased living space (sitting areas, living rooms, dining rooms)
More personal space (bedrooms, guest rooms)
Boost functionality (kitchen, laundry, bathrooms)
Storage needs (mudroom, built-ins, closets)
Improve layout & flow
Business use (office, rental income, resale value)

Define Your Problems

Is something about your home frustrating you? Grab a pen, or your phone and make a note of it! Defining your problems is the first step to solving them. The more details you provide, the more insight you will be able to give your builder.

Ways to define your home’s space problems:

Need more counter and storage space in the kitchen
I cannot see my children playing while I’m cooking dinner
Our dining area is too far from the kitchen
It’s dark and closed off in the kitchen
I am annoyed that I have to do laundry in the garage
Our older parents need an accessible guest room and adjoining bathroom suitable for extended visits

Needs vs. Wants In Your Home Addition

Unless you have an unlimited budget you will need to define what you need and what you want from your home addition. This will guide your choices and reign-in your spending to realistic standards.

Needs When Planning Your Home Addition

Guest room or office needs a separate entrance.
Separate space for laundry.
Durable, waterproof flooring
Natural light flow
Office also needs to function as a guest room

Wants When Planning Your Home Addition:

Skylights.
Solid oak floors.
High-end lighting fixtures.
Vaulted ceilings.
Separate bath and shower stall.
Built-ins.
Energy-efficient windows.

Establishing your wants and needs helps allocate funds for must-have items. Any surplus can be used for wanted items. It goes without saying that this is much easier to do beforehand rather than mid-project.

How Big Should My Home Addition Be?

Determining the square footage of your addition can be tricky. You will need to consider how much usable land you have, where your property lines are, and adequately cover your list of needs. If you are limited on space, you may be able to build up or add a second story to your home. Bear in mind that there are specific rules and guidelines that come with each type of addition.

Sometimes Forgotten Costs Of Home Additions:

We know that maximizing your budget is important. In an ideal world, all funds would be allocated to square footage and finishes. However, there are other costs that you must allot for when planning your home addition. Let’s call them the practical side of home additions; permits, septic tank expansion, increased property taxes among others.

Permitting: Based on the value of your home addition.
Septic Tank Expansion: More rooms means your septic tank will have to meet the standards for your home’s new capacity. Helpful advice: Adding a home office does not increase your septic tank capacity needs. Although, who is to say you cannot add a murphy bed to accommodate an occasional guest in the future if the need arises?
Property Taxes: Adding square footage ultimately equals more home value and an increase in property taxes.

Who Should I Contact First: General Contractor or Architect?

An architect will tell you it is better to start with them. A general contractor will likely tell you the same. Here at Global Construction Management LLC we have a Architect we work with or you can hire one on your own.

So how do you decide?

We like to explain it like this, an architect is usually done with the project once the plans are drawn up. Therefore the amount of time you spend with an architect is minimal when compared to the amount you will spend with your builder. Your builder will be on-site daily and potentially after completion if there are more projects you are working on together.

Considering this, the advantages of choosing your builder first are clear. Once you select the best builder for your project, ask them to recommend an architect to draw the plans. This is a win, win as you already have a great builder and now you are adding an architect that has a good working rapport with your builder.

What Happens After I Have A Builder & An Architect?

The architect will draw up plans that meet the needed specifications. The general contractor will then price the job based on the costs of materials specified in the plans. If your plan calls for 800 square feet of ceramic tile, the general contractor can then estimate an average cost of goods and labor. Of course, not all tile floors cost the same amount of money. Therefore, knowing your design style and desired finishes will get you a closer estimate.

Know Your Level Of Involvement

Being your own general contractor could save you a few bucks if you have a lot of connections in the different trades needed for your home addition. However, you will also need quite a bit of free time to manage all of the contractor’s schedules, lead time on materials and making sure the process is completed on time. Not to mention, you are the only one to blame when the process doesn’t go as planned.

If you are not ready for all of the headaches of being your own general contractor, then you will need to hire one. Many homeowners fall into this category for a variety of reasons. We recommend interviewing a few builders to find one you feel comfortable working with.

Get Started On Your Home Addition

Now that you are brushed up on the steps to planning your home addition it’s time to get started! Global Construction Management LLC would be honored to be on your interview list. We have been serving the construction needs of Tucson AZ residents for over a decade. We pride ourselves on not being a volume-based company. Rather, our value is derived from providing our clients with integrity, dependability, and quality workmanship.

To schedule your personal consultation contact us online or by calling (520)390-1804. We look forward to turning your home into the perfect space for your family.

Newer Post >

A bright and modern bathroom with a large bathtub, a walk-in shower with a glass door, and a single

Building your vision With Global Construction Management LLC

By Julia Awe • 14 Dec, 2023

Global Construction Management LLC: Your Partner for Exceptional Building Projects Global Construction Management (GCM) offers more than just construction services - they help you bring your vision to life. With a collaborative approach, unwavering commitment to quality, and expertise across all project stages, they ensure your build exceeds expectations.

Beautifully remodeled kitchen featuring wood flooring, large white island countertop, modern pendant

Kitchen remodel: Tips for planning and executing a successful project

By Julia Awe • 27 Sep, 2023

Kitchen remodel: Tips for planning and executing a successful project The kitchen is often considered the heart of the home, and for good reason. It's where we gather to cook, eat, and spend time with loved ones. So it's no wonder that kitchen remodels are so popular. If you're thinking about remodeling your kitchen, there are a few things you need to know to get started. 1. Plan your budget One of the most important things to do before embarking on a kitchen remodel is to set a budget. Kitchen remodels can range in price from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the scope of the project. It's important to be realistic about how much you can afford to spend and to stick to your budget as closely as possible. 2. Decide on the scope of work Once you have a budget in mind, you need to decide on the scope of work for your kitchen remodel. What do you want to change? Do you want to update your cabinets, countertops, and appliances? Do you want to change the layout of your kitchen? Once you know what you want to do, you can start to get estimates from contractors. 3. Hire a qualified contractor It's important to hire a qualified contractor to remodel your kitchen. This is a major project, and you want to make sure that it's done right. Get quotes from multiple contractors and compare their bids, experience, and references before making a decision. It's no secret that a kitchen remodel is a major undertaking. You're investing in the heart of your home, and you want to make sure it's done right. That's why choosing the right contractor is crucial. At Global Construction Management LLC, we understand the importance of your kitchen. We're a team of experienced and qualified professionals dedicated to delivering exceptional results that exceed your expectations. Visit our kitchen and bath remodeling page to learn more about our services, view our portfolio, and get inspired for your own project: https://www.gcmqualitycontracting.com/kitchen-and-bath-remodeling 4. Get the necessary permits Depending on the scope of your kitchen remodel, you may need to obtain permits from your local municipality. Be sure to check with your building department to find out what permits you need and how to apply for them. 5. Be prepared for disruption A kitchen remodel can be disruptive to your daily routine. Be prepared to cook and eat out more often, and to have your kitchen out of commission for a period of time. 6. Enjoy your new kitchen! Once your kitchen remodel is complete, you'll be able to enjoy a beautiful and functional space that meets your needs. Here are some additional tips for planning and executing a successful kitchen remodel: Consider your lifestyle. What do you need and want from your kitchen? Do you cook a lot? Do you have a large family? Think about how you use your kitchen today and how you want to use it in the future. Create a design plan. Once you know what you want in your new kitchen, it's time to create a design plan. This will help you to visualize your new space and to make sure that everything fits together. You can create your own design plan or you can hire a professional designer to help you. Choose the right materials. There are a wide variety of materials available for kitchen remodels. When choosing materials, consider your budget, your lifestyle, and your aesthetic preferences. Don't forget the details. It's the little things that can make a big difference in your new kitchen. Think about things like lighting, hardware, and accessories. Be patient and flexible. Things don't always go according to plan during a kitchen remodel. Be patient and flexible, and be prepared to make adjustments as needed. Remodeling your kitchen can be a big undertaking, but it's worth it in the end. By following these tips, you can plan and execute a successful project that will give you a kitchen you'll love for years to come.

a lightning bolt strikes the roof of a house

TIPS-TO-PREPARE-YOUR-HOME-FOR-MONSOON-SEASON

By Julia Awe • 03 Aug, 2023

Monsoon season is officially here and several areas of Arizona have experienced them already. When a monsoon hits, it can bring heavy rains, strong winds, added humidity, and flash flooding. All of this can take a toll on your home and cause damage if your home is not ready. A home that is not properly prepared or routinely maintained can be susceptible to damage. Your roof is especially vulnerable to damage and can be significantly damaged by a monsoon. Many homeowners do not see preventative maintenance as an investment, until it is too late. Damaged areas can become more significant once it is hit with heavy rain and wind. If you suspect your roof has a leak already developed, contact your local roofing company before it turns into something more significant with the next monsoon. CHECK YOUR ROOF Check your roof for any debris, such as twigs or sharp rocks. These can easily poke through the roofing material and cause leaks. Ensure all roofing material is tightly attached and all seams are sealed against the rain and wind. Have Your Roof Inspected Preventative maintenance is the best way to prepare for the monsoon season. Having a professional examine your roof can help discover areas of concern before they are hit with heavy rain and strong winds. Your local roofer might suggest replacing certain tiles or shingles, clearing your valleys of debris, and sealing any vents or flashing that might have come loose. PROVIDE DRAINAGE Not only do you need rain gutters and spouts for your roof, but if your lawn has places where water pools are, install some type of drainpipe to move the water along. This is especially important if the water pools around your foundation, which can damage the foundation and cause flooding. TRIM TREES Fallen tree branches can destroy roofs and break windows. By trimming and thinning your trees, you allow a path for the wind through the branches, making it less likely that they will break off and damage your home. Keeping them trimmed so they don’t hang over the roof will also prevent punctures from the branches and damage from leaves clogging gutters. INSTALL SURGE PROTECTOR Electrical outages are common during high winds. There are two things you can do to prepare for an outage. First, install a whole home surge protector. This will help save electronics like computers and help prevent damage to your refrigerator and other appliances. Secondly, prepare an emergency kit with flashlights, batteries, and a cold pack for any medications that need to be kept cold. KEEP AIR FILTERS CLEAN Dust can quickly clog your air conditioner’s filters. Make it a habit to change your air filter at least once a month during monsoon season. It is also good practice to change the filter after every dust storm. Dust can quickly clog air vents and cause damage. It can also cause health problems, especially for children and the elderly. What To Do If Your Roof Is Damaged The most important thing to remember if a monsoon has damaged your roof is safety! If you cannot perform an inspection safely, contact a professional immediately. Once the rains have stopped and you are sure your roof has sustained damage, you will want to take several photos. Proper documentation is necessary when filing an insurance claim. After you have taken your photos, you will want to call your insurance company. They can help you take the necessary steps to file a claim and get your home repaired. Your insurance company will likely have a list of contractors they require you to work with to file a claim. It is essential that you follow their guidelines around filing a claim to be properly reimbursed for the repair.

a bathroom with a bathtub , sink , and shower .

Should-you-move-or-remodel

24 May, 2023

Should You Move Or Remodel? You’ve spent years making a house your home, but now you’re looking for a new canvas to work with. That doesn’t necessarily mean packing up and putting your humble abode on the market. You have options to consider — move or remodel? We’ve highlighted some factors to consider that’ll help you make a well-thought out decision whether to renovate your current space or buy a new home. What’s Your Reason for Moving or Remodeling? First, determine why you’re making a change. Maybe you’ve ran out of room after welcoming a new child or aging parent into the space. Or perhaps you've launched a business that requires a more expansive spread than an office nook. Whatever the reason, depending on your resources and level of attachment to your current home, your decision is probably predominantly a matter of price. On the other hand, your desire for change might be motivated by shifting tastes or a craving for freshness. Remodeling may be the preferred approach, assuming the changes you envision would involve less money, time and effort compared to moving into that "perfect place." There is, however, also something to be said for reevaluating and renovating the home in which you now reside. With creativity, imagination, planning and some effort, transforming your current space might be the perfect solution. Here are some reasons a remodel may be what you’re looking for: Get what you want. Choosing to remodel your home means you know what you’re working with, so your expectations are clearer. You can design a renovation plan that meets your wants and needs. Unless you’re building a new home, buying a home doesn’t quite give you that customizable control. Having trouble seeing your abode with new eyes? Try visiting a home similar in size and layout to yours currently on the market. Take an in-depth look at how someone you don’t know utilizes a space not all that different from your own. Think about how you could modify and integrate what you like into your renovation plan — and make mental notes of what you don’t love to make sure you don’t repeat it. Use your home equity. Do you have a lot of home equity? You may be able to borrow against it instead of taking out a new home mortgage. Going this route means you can use your home as collateral to pay for the remodel. Stay where you love. Don’t want to give up the location you’re in? Maybe you have amazing neighbors in a beautiful neighborhood, a quick walk to the school, close proximity to restaurants and the grocery store. If the idea of saying goodbye to these perks is too much to bear — don’t move! Remodeling can give you the best of both worlds. It's hard to not let feelings get involved in such a big decision — and that's okay. You wouldn’t want to make a decision between whether to remodel or buy a new home based on emotion alone. Here's how to decide if it's better to renovate or move on. Should you stay or should you go? Keep these pointers in mind when determining if there’s more value in fixing up your existing home or moving on. First, estimate your costs to buy a new home. Add up the selling and agent costs (packing, moving and loan financing). Don't forget hidden items. For example, the buyer may ask you to replace the carpet before you sell. Or what if you have to replace appliances? Make your best effort to include everything it will cost in time and money to sell your home and buy a new place. Then estimate what you may get for your house and how much cash you will have for a down payment. If you like your neighbors and your school district, consider remodeling. You can get exactly the home you want, and you won't risk any buyer's remorse. Estimate the cost of making the crucial renovations needed for you to stay. Decide what you would like to do and go price-shopping at a home improvement store. Call contractors and get estimates. This is especially important if you need to add on extra square footage. Compare what it would cost to move and what it would cost to remodel. Add in X-factors such as friends, schools and neighbors. When all is said and done, you may find you get more equity by staying in your home and remodeling.