If you’re looking for a way to increase the finished living space in your home, an addition could be an ideal solution. If you have limited space in your backyard or on each side of your home, though, you may be wondering if you can add on to the front of your home instead. The answer is absolutely, as long as you comply with the zoning laws in your area. Here are some great ideas for adding on to the front of your house, brought to you by the team from Forever Builders, the room addition contractors San Diego homeowners can trust for exceptional workmanship and outstanding service.
Check Your Local Zoning Laws
When you’re planning an addition to the front of your home, the first thing you’ll need to do is make sure you have plenty of space in your front yard to build it. Most cities have “setback” requirements that determine how far from your front or rear property line you can build, including when you’re adding on to your home. Although zoning laws vary from one city to another, in most residential areas, homeowners aren’t allowed to build within 20 feet of the front of their property, 7.5 feet on either side, and 15 feet from the rear. In addition, make sure to check with your local building department regarding how much of your lot can be covered with impermeable materials (which include both paving and structures) as well as the height limit for buildings, which you’ll need to know if you’re building up rather than out.
Add a Porch
Building a porch in the front of your home is a great way to increase your living space as well as your home’s value. Porches are among the most popular additions to homes because they not only boost curb appeal but also provide outdoor living space for friends and family to gather. Your porch can be as large or as small as you want—just make sure to include enough space for seating and other practical options such as a ceiling fan or a fire pit.
Convert the Front Porch into a Sunroom
If you already have a front porch where your family loves to spend time, consider enclosing it and turning it into a sunroom. You’ll be protected from the elements while being surrounded by natural light, and it’s easy to give your sunroom the feel of a second living room with some comfy furniture, beautiful plants, and personalized décor. Depending on how visible the front of your home is from the street, you might even want to use your sunroom as a home office or a music room.
Build Dormers
If your home has two stories, adding dormers to the second floor is a good way to expand your living space and let in more light. Dormers will also make your house look larger, adding major curb appeal. The cost of adding dormers will depend on the type of house you have as well as the pitch of your roof and the total square footage. If you decide to build dormers on the front of your home, make sure to hire a contractor who has experience with roofing.
Add a Room Over Your Garage
A great way to increase your home’s square footage without the mess and expense of building out from the front is to build up by adding a bonus room or guest bedroom over your garage. Since your garage already has a foundation in place, you’ll just have to add walls and a roof.
The Forever Builders team can help you decide which options are best for you, and we’ll assist you through every step of your room addition. San Diego homeowners rely on us to provide the most affordable home remodeling services and ensure their visions become reality. From design to completion, we’ll help you create the addition you’ve always wanted, meeting all your expectations while keeping your costs within budget. To find out more about our exceptional remodeling services, give one of our friendly team members a call today at (833) 243-5624.