The evolution of family needs, the arrival of children, or simply the desire for more living space lead many homeowners to consider a home addition. Rather than moving, expanding your current residence often represents the most economical and practical solution to gain the square footage necessary for your comfort.
There are several types of home additions, each presenting its own advantages according to your needs, budget, and property constraints. Understanding these different options will allow you to make an informed choice for your project.
With over 50 years of experience in residential construction, the Construction J.G. Lessard & Fils team guides you through the main expansion methods to help you realize your project under the best conditions.
Horizontal addition: ground-level extension
Horizontal addition involves extending your house on the existing lot. This solution is ideal if you have sufficient space around your property and comply with municipal regulations regarding setback requirements.
Side extension on foundations
Side extension on foundations represents the most traditional and durable method for expanding your home. This technique requires pouring new concrete foundations that harmonize with the existing structure.
Advantages of foundation extension:
- Maximum strength and durability of construction
- Perfect integration with existing structure
- Possibility to add basement under extension
- Excellent thermal insulation at floor level
- Compliance with strictest construction standards
This solution is particularly suitable for large addition projects requiring multiple rooms or when you want a permanent and robust extension.
Rear extension on piles
Pile extension represents an interesting alternative, particularly suited to sloped terrain or less stable soils. This method uses screw piles or concrete piers to support the new structure.
Characteristics of pile extension:
- Faster installation than traditional foundations
- Adaptation to difficult or sloped terrain
- Reduced impact on existing landscaping
- Generally lower cost than complete foundations
- Natural drainage under structure
This solution is recommended for medium-sized extensions, such as adding a kitchen, living room, or master bedroom.
Four-season addition
The four-season addition offers comfortable living space year-round, perfectly insulated and heated. Unlike a simple sunroom, this extension meets insulation standards and can accommodate various functions.
Popular uses for four-season addition:
- Family room with garden view
- Expanded dining room for entertaining
- Bright and quiet home office
- Relaxation and leisure space
- Kitchen extension with dining area
Vertical addition: adding a second story to your house
Adding a second story to your house constitutes an ideal solution when ground space is limited. This vertical expansion method allows you to practically double the living area without encroaching on your yard.
Complete second story addition
Adding a complete second story radically transforms your property by creating an entirely new level. This solution is particularly suitable for bungalows and single-story homes with adequate load-bearing structure.
Advantages of complete second story addition:
- Maximum space gain without losing yard space
- Clear separation between day and night spaces
- Significant property value increase
- Creation of additional bedrooms upstairs
- Preservation of garden and outdoor amenities
Partial elevation
Partial elevation allows adding space over only a portion of the existing house. This approach offers more flexibility and can adapt to different budgets and needs.
Partial elevation options:
- Extension above garage to create master suite
- Second story addition at back of house
- Elevation of specific wing of building
- Creation of finished attic space
Necessary structural verifications
Before any second story project, a thorough structural evaluation is essential to guarantee the safety and feasibility of the project. This crucial step determines your house's capacity to support the additional weight.
Elements to verify:
- Foundation strength: capacity to support additional load
- Frame condition: verification of beams and load-bearing structure
- Load-bearing walls: assessment of their resistance and condition
- Existing floors: control of their load capacity
- Geotechnical study: analysis of soil stability
- Building compliance: compliance with current standards
Evaluate my project feasibility
Basement addition: excavation and finishing
Basement addition represents an often overlooked but very advantageous option for gaining living space. This solution involves excavating under the existing house or finishing an already present but unexploited basement.
This expansion method offers several economic and practical advantages. Costs are generally lower than those of a second story addition, and the work doesn't affect your property's exterior appearance. Moreover, a well-finished basement provides natural coolness in summer.
Important technical considerations:
- Assessment of existing waterproofing and drainage
- Installation of adequate ventilation system
- Moisture control and mold prevention
- Appropriate thermal insulation for foundation walls
- Ceiling height compliant with residential standards
If your basement has humidity or mold problems, it's essential to call our decontamination work experts before undertaking finishing work. For more information, see our article on mold in the home.
How to add to your house: essential steps
Successfully completing your home addition requires careful planning and following key steps. This structured approach guarantees a project carried out professionally, respecting your budget and timeline.
Assessing your needs and budget
The first step involves precisely defining your space needs and establishing a realistic budget. This preliminary reflection guides all subsequent decisions and prevents cost overruns.
Essential questions to ask:
- What additional square footage do you want?
- What rooms do you want to add (bedrooms, office, bathroom)?
- What total budget can you dedicate to the project?
- What timeline do you want for completion?
- Should the addition harmonize with existing architecture?
Consultation with general contractor
Calling an experienced general contractor from the first considerations saves you time and money. This professional evaluates the technical feasibility of your project and proposes solutions best adapted to your situation.
Our expert team supports you in this crucial step by analyzing your property, needs, and budget to propose the most relevant addition options.
Plans and architectural design
Plan design constitutes a determining step that makes your vision concrete. Detailed plans serve as reference for permit acquisition, cost calculation, and work execution.
Elements included in design:
- Detailed architectural plans and technical sections
- Choice of materials and finishes
- Harmonious integration with existing
- Optimization of circulation and natural light
- Compliance with technical and regulatory constraints
Obtaining permits
All home additions require obtaining municipal permits. This administrative process, though sometimes lengthy, guarantees your project's compliance with current regulations.
Construction J.G. Lessard & Fils handles these administrative procedures to simplify your life and avoid errors that could delay your project.
Construction and site supervision
The construction phase requires precise coordination between different trades. Our project management approach guarantees respect for agreed timelines, quality, and budget.
Construction stages:
- Site preparation and securing premises
- Foundation work or structure preparation
- Frame erection and building enclosure
- System installation (plumbing, electrical, heating)
- Insulation, partitions and interior finishes
- Exterior cladding and finishes
- Final cleaning and delivery
Regulations and permits for home addition in Montreal
Realizing a home addition in Montreal involves complying with urban planning regulations specific to your borough. These regulations aim to preserve neighborhood architectural harmony and ensure construction safety.
The main municipal requirements concern setback margins, which determine minimum distances to respect from property boundaries. These distances vary according to zones and the type of addition envisioned.
The floor area ratio (FAR) also limits the maximum ground coverage that buildings can occupy on your lot. This ratio must be respected during any horizontal extension project.
Common regulatory constraints:
- Front setback: generally 20 to 26 feet minimum
- Side margins: 6 to 10 feet depending on sectors
- Rear margin: 20 to 33 feet in most zones
- Maximum height: limited according to neighborhood zoning
- Architectural harmonization: respecting main building style
Our in-depth knowledge of Montreal regulations allows us to design your project in perfect compliance with municipal requirements, thus avoiding any delay or permit refusal.
Budget and costs by addition type
The cost of a home addition varies considerably according to several factors: the type of extension chosen, added area, selected materials, and desired finish level.
Factors influencing addition costs:
- Structural complexity and connection to existing
- Material quality and chosen finish level
- Need for preparatory work (demolition, excavation)
- Addition of specialized systems (plumbing, additional electrical)
- Site access constraints and terrain conditions
Construction J.G. Lessard & Fils offers different contract types to adapt to your needs: turnkey, flat-rate, cost-plus, or time and materials contracts. This flexibility allows you to choose the formula that best corresponds to your project and budget.
J.G. Lessard expertise in residential additions
For over 50 years, Construction J.G. Lessard & Fils has been accompanying Greater Montreal homeowners in their addition projects. Our diverse experience allows us to manage all types of projects, from the simplest to the most complex.
Complete and personalized project management
Our integrated approach covers all phases of your addition project, from feasibility study to final delivery. This global management guarantees optimal coordination and a single contact throughout the work.
Services included in project management:
- Free evaluation and personalized advice
- Plan design and permit acquisition
- Coordination of all trades
- Rigorous monitoring of deadlines and budget
- Quality control at each construction stage
- Regular communication on project progress
Quality and standards compliance
All our addition projects strictly comply with Quebec Building Code standards and municipal regulations in force. This compliance assures you durable construction and avoids future problems.
Our network of trusted subcontractors allows us to offer high-quality complementary services, notably in masonry for exterior cladding that harmonizes perfectly with your existing house.
Discover some of our addition achievements that testify to our know-how and attention to detail.
Maximizing your property value
A well-designed and executed addition constitutes a profitable investment that significantly increases your property's value. Real estate studies demonstrate that a quality addition can generate a return on investment of 70 to 85% of the invested sum.
The impact on resale value depends on several factors: execution quality, harmony with existing architecture, and adequacy with local market needs. A well-integrated second story addition or extension can transform an ordinary house into a sought-after property.
Choosing durable materials also influences long-term value. Investing in superior quality materials guarantees not only your addition's longevity but also contributes to maintaining your property's appeal in the real estate market.
Aesthetic considerations to maximize value:
- Material harmonization with existing
- Respect for neighborhood architectural style
- Optimization of natural light
- Creation of functional and versatile spaces
- Particular attention to finishes and details
Succeeding in a home addition project requires rigorous planning, in-depth technical expertise, and impeccable execution. Each type of addition presents its own advantages and constraints, and the choice depends on your specific needs, budget, and property characteristics.
Work with the right team
The importance of choosing the right general contractor cannot be underestimated. An experienced professional guides you in important decisions, manages technical and regulatory aspects, and ensures execution quality.
With over 50 years of experience in the Montreal region, Construction J.G. Lessard & Fils possesses the necessary expertise to bring your addition project to life under the best conditions.
Whether you want to add a second story to your house, create a side extension, or finish your basement, our team accompanies you at each step to transform your vision into reality. Don't wait any longer to bring your project to life and enjoy the additional space you've been dreaming of.