If your family has outgrown your current house and you don’t want to move, a home addition over the garage is an effective solution. It will add an extra room where you can set up a home office, media center, or playroom. If you’re preparing for this type of project, here’s an overview of what might happen and how you and your contractor will work together.

How to Build a Home Addition Over the Garage

1. Analyzing the Structure

Your contractor will first have to confirm that your garage’s existing frame can hold the additional weight. If the foundation is not strong enough, they will have to bolster it before beginning any work above the garage.

2. Following Fire Safety Codes

For room additions, building codes require 5/8-inch fire-rated drywall on the garage’s walls and ceilings. Without it, the garage would sustain too much damage during a fire, putting the add-on at risk. As per fire safety codes, the contractor will also have to tightly seal all electrical conduits after opening up any drywall.

3. Adding Insulation

Building codes require contractors to insulate the spaces between the garage’s ceiling and the new addition’s floor. To save energy, insulate the garage walls as well. Unfinished garages let in drafts, which may cool and heat the room addition and put unnecessary strain on your HVAC equipment. 

4. Keeping the Appearance Consistent

As the structural work begins, walk outside and visualize your home addition. Since it will overlook the street, you must make it match the rest of your home exterior. Buy the same paint colors, windows, trim, and shutters to create a seamless addition. Your contractor will install these to finish the project.

 

Build your dream bonus room with the help of Deaton Builders in Randolph County, NC. This home improvement business is a leading provider of new construction and remodeling services across the Piedmont Triad region. They deliver excellent customer service. Learn more about home additions on their website or call (336) 858-3872 to request a free estimate today.