The family is growing and you are starting to feel cramped in your home? And it is above all not a question of considering a move? Fortunately, there is a solution:the realization of an extension. Fitting out the attic, raising the roof, creating an outbuilding, fitting out the cellar and others, discover the many possibilities available to you.
The most popular alternative for homeowners to increase the living space of their home is to make an extension. It may be an outbuilding which will be attached to the house and which will serve as a studio for an elderly person or a teenager. But for this construction to be feasible, it is still necessary to have enough space on the ground. The work will be identical to that carried out for a new construction. Plan earthworks, the creation of foundations, masonry, roofing without forgetting electricity, plumbing, painting... The existing one will also have to undergo some work to merge the two constructions. Regarding the price, a budget between 800 and 2000 euros is to be expected. The price depends mainly on the type of material chosen.
Costing between 800 and 1500 euros per m², the development of the attic is an increasingly widespread practice to gain additional space in the house. The difficulty of the project depends on the location, whether it is a lost or habitable attic. This space is said to be "lost" when the ceiling height is less than 1.80 m and the framework encumbers the floor surface. Under these conditions, it is difficult to arrange the attic. Difficult, but not impossible. Because to solve the problem of insufficient ceiling height, an elevation of the roof is possible. Same for the frame. When it encroaches too much on the space, it is possible to modify it. Once the work has been completed, the new space obtained can be transformed into a master suite, play area, bathroom or office.
In regions with high urban density, the only alternative to gaining more living space is to face the sky, which therefore implies raising the house. The biggest advantage of this technique lies in the significant living space obtained since it is possible to create entire floors. In addition, it is also an opportunity to reinforce the insulation of your roof. On the other hand, expect a very high bill between 1000 and 1750 euros per m². This type of work is complicated and can only be carried out by experienced professionals. Another thing:if the area gained goes beyond 20 m², a building permit will be required.
If the extension cannot be done from above, do it from below. More clearly, arrange your basement to transform it into a living space. But first, make sure you make it habitable by fixing any humidity problems, for example. The installation of an efficient VMC type ventilation system is strongly recommended. It will evacuate stale air and bring in new air. Do not neglect the insulation to avoid heat loss. The budget ? Allow between 800 and 1500 euros per m² for this project.
