While you’re dreaming up your room addition, it can be easy to forget about the practical things you should include – and the ones you definitely shouldn’t. This article rounds up some of the top do’s and dont’s when it comes to adding a room addition to your Los Angeles home.
DO Design for Energy Efficiency and Natural Light
Beyond the size and type of your windows, the position you put them in also matters a great deal. South-facing windows catch the most light during the day and disperse it throughout your home. West-facing windows are great for letting in a ton of light, but you might find increased energy bills from cooling costs if you place too many large windows in this position.
DO Verify Utility Needs
While you’re focused on building the newest addition to your house, remember to consider how it’ll affect the existing structure and systems. For example, will you need to upgrade your electric panel to accommodate the increased load? Does the plumbing need to be extended before you begin construction on the addition? These are questions that a high-quality builder such as Creative Innovation Developers can help you answer early in the room addition process.
DO Match Your Architecture Style
Aesthetically, you want your home to have one cohesive look. For example, don’t add a modern cube to a Spanish-style home. Also, keep the room addition the same height as your existing home for the best results.
Plus, consider your roof pitch on your existing structure when adding an addition. Ensure they align for consistency and be aware that a mismatched roof can impact how heat is trapped, leading to increased energy consumption.
DON’T Ignore Setbacks and Property Lines
Los Angeles has many zoning designations, so it’s important to work with a builder like Creative Innovation Developers who understands them all. Even smaller room additions like bump-outs can require legal conformity with current codes. Plan to have a qualified developer communicate with relevant agencies to submit plans before you begin.
DON’T Forget About Noise Control
A room addition means more space, and also more sound. Using multiple layers of drywalling and sealing gaps and cracks can help reduce both airborne noise like voices and music as well as structural noises from doors and mechanical systems in your home.
Consider investing in soundproofing insulation if your room addition is located near a high traffic room such as the living room, or near the exterior of your home closest to the street.
DON’T Neglect the Indoor/Outdoor Flow
One of the best things about California is the weather, and you can take the most advantage of it by maximizing your home both inside and out. Avoid layouts and designs that reduce airflow or your usable outdoor space. These room additions can make it harder to enjoy your yard or patio area, and they can also decrease your home’s resale value since you’ll have less coveted outdoor space.
Know Before You Grow
As you can see, there are lots of things to think about when it comes to building a room addition on your Los Angeles home. Connect with Creative Innovation Developers for your room addition project in Los Angeles and work with the best home building company in the business.
