Are you feeling challenged by the prospect of adding an addition to your home? Many homeowners share this apprehension when contemplating a remodeling project. Not knowing how long things will take or if there will be delays can be scary, causing worry and doubt.
We understand the challenges you face when embarking on a home addition project. With more than 15 years of remodeling experience, we've completed many home additions, each with varying timelines.
In this article, you'll gain a comprehensive understanding of the factors that influence the timeline of a home addition project in Michigan:
- Permits and Approvals with Local Zoning or the HOA
- Project Size and Complexity
- Weather Conditions
- Material Availability
- Contractor Scheduling
- Unexpected Issues
- Homeowner Decision-Making
How Long Does a Home Addition Take to Build?
Typically, a home addition takes 12 - 17 weeks to complete. Various factors that influence the project timeline include:
- Permits and Approvals with Local Zoning or the HOA
- Project Size and Complexity
- Weather Conditions
- Material Availability
- Contractor Scheduling
- Unexpected Issues
- Homeowner Decision-Making
Permits and Approvals with Local Zoning or the HOA
The first step in any home addition project is obtaining the necessary permits and approvals from local authorities. This process takes around two weeks, but it can vary depending on several factors.
Special circumstances, like building near a lake or an area with strict rules, can affect approval. Living in a subdivision with an HOA can also complicate things. This requires surveys, soil reports, and architectural approval.
Project Size and Complexity
The size and complexity of the home addition play a significant role in determining the timeline.
Each project requires meticulous planning and design, whether a simple room bump-out or a full-blown suite addition. Structural factors such as roof load and building codes may require approved architectural plans.
Depending on the project's scope, architectural drawings may take two to four weeks to complete. Once construction begins, a typical 12x15 addition will take between 90 to 120 days to complete.
Here are a few home addition project examples that range in size and complexity:
- Sunroom Addition: Building a sunroom can be simple or complex depending on its size and features. A three-season room might have screens and take less time to build, while a four-season room with insulation and heating will take longer.
- Second-Story Addition: Adding another floor to your home is a big project that involves a lot of work. It's more complicated and will take more time because it requires changing the structure of your house.
- Bump-Out Addition: A bump-out is an extension of a room or add-on to a small part of your home. It's not as complicated as adding an entirely new floor, but the time it takes will vary based on its size and what changes are needed.
- Garage Conversion: Turning your garage into a living space can range from simple to complex. It depends on what you want to do with the space and if you are adding things like heating or windows. The time it takes can change based on how much work is involved.
- In-Law Suite Addition: Creating a separate living area for family members is a great use of your resources. What you include in your project, a bedroom, bathroom, storage space, kitchen, deck, etc. will change the complexity and timeframe for your project.
Weather Conditions
Weather conditions are a significant factor that can impact the timeline, especially before the foundation and exterior of your home addition are complete. Rain or snow can cause delays and make outdoor construction challenging.
Since we can't predict the weather in our state, expect possible delays caused by bad weather. Your contractor should keep you informed about potential weather-related setbacks. Preparing for flexibility will help set realistic expectations and reduce frustration during the project.
Material Availability
Material availability is important and can affect how long a home addition project takes.
During the pandemic, supply chain disruptions led to significant delays in material delivery. While the situation has improved since then, special orders and unique materials may still cause delays.
Choosing available materials can help streamline the construction timeline and avoid unnecessary delays.
If you want to expedite the preparation process by choosing available materials, proactively communicate this with your contractor. Most contractors are happy to present materials that are readily accessible.
Contractor Scheduling
If you are working with a design-build firm, their team will provide you with a projected schedule before construction starts. Unexpected factors, such as inclement weather or team health issues, may arise, potentially affecting your completion date.
However, if you are self-managing your project, scheduling various subcontractors is typically the most difficult part. Expect delays that will disrupt your original completion date.
We recommend scheduling each contractor several weeks ahead of time and following up as their start date approaches. Remain flexible when delays happen, and contractors do not show up; it’s part of the construction process!
Unexpected Issues
Even with careful planning, unexpected problems can come up during a home addition, causing delays. Being ready for these situations and keeping in touch with your contractor can help reduce stress and ensure things go smoothly.
Here are a few issues you could see arise during a home addition project:
- Foundation Issues: Ensure stability and address any structural concerns promptly.
- Load-Bearing Wall Removal: Seek expert guidance to maintain structural integrity.
- Change Orders: Stay flexible and communicate clearly with your contractor to accommodate changes.
- Material Delivery Delays: Plan for potential delays and discuss alternative options with your contractor.
- Administrative Delays: Keep communication channels open and address administrative tasks promptly to minimize delays.
- Ground Issues: Address soil conditions and drainage effectively to prevent future complications.
Homeowner Decision-Making
Your decision-making plays a significant role in determining the project timeline. Timely selections of flooring, paint colors, and countertops are crucial for keeping the project on schedule.
Delays in decision-making happen. We understand that many homeowners prefer to take extra time to consider each selection carefully. It's important to maintain open communication with your contractor.
If you prefer having additional time to process and deliberate on decisions, communicate this with them. This will enable the contractor to effectively tailor the process to suit your preferences.
However, if the timeframe is your focus, making prompt decisions will reduce your timeline! It’s the one area of a design-build process you have room to affect majorly.
Next Steps to Building Your Home Addition
Many homeowners encounter uncertainties about the timeline and process of building a home addition - especially during their first remodeling project.
With insights into the various factors affecting construction timelines, you're now better prepared to navigate the process.
At Custom Built, we possess over 15 years of experience guiding homeowners through successful home addition projects. We understand the intricacies involved and are committed to ensuring our clients a smooth and stress-free experience.
Ready to embark on your home addition journey? Contact our team of experts today to discuss your project goals and how we can assist you in bringing your vision to life.
Now that you know more about home addition project timelines, let’s explore how to build an addition for aging-in-place, how much your project will cost, and how to upgrade your home addition:
- How To Build a Home Addition for Aging Parents in Michigan - Discover how to build a home addition that is comfortable and exciting for your golden years.
- How Much Does a Home Addition Cost at Custom Built? - Explore the costs behind the home additions you just learned about, complete with essential factors influencing the price.
- 5 Top Ways to Upscale Your Home Addition in Lansing, MI - From heated flooring to skylights, this article explores how to elevate your home addition and create an elegant living space for years.
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