If you are interested in adding more space to your home, increasing the property value, and improving your overall quality of life, then consider a renovation or home addition. Planning and designing your dream home is an exciting time, but having a vision for your future home is only the first step in the process.

From dreaming and planning, to permitting and preparation, to moving in, it’s important to understand what goes into a home remodel. To ensure you start your project off on the right foot, we’ve put together a step-by-step list of how to add an addition to a house in New Jersey.

Home Additions in New Jersey

The scope of your home renovation project is dependent on the goals you have for your home. For example, do you plan to grow your family? Then consider changing the layout of your space to accommodate another bedroom. Or invest in a home addition and add an entirely new room to your existing space.

Of course, not every renovation or addition needs to be as complex as a layout reno or a whole new room. Perhaps your goal is to live in a specific neighborhood, but you can’t find a home that fits all your needs. Instead, find a home you enjoy and make it fit your needs. 

Want an open space? Knock down a wall. Not a fan of the outdated design? Plan a custom remodel. Need a guest bathroom? Find the right home additions contractor in NJ and turn your current home into your dream home. But before you take a renovation, learn what the steps are for success:

Research

Research is a vital part of renovating your home and includes everything from meeting with designers to exploring energy efficiency upgrades. Luckily there are plenty of resources about what to look for when it comes to choosing the right contractor, loan option, and design choices for your project.

Before jumping in feet first, it’s important to have a clear idea of everything you want out of your home renovation. With your goals in mind and wish list handy, you can confidently reach out to experts.

Finding a Home Remodeling Contractor in New Jersey

Finding the right contractor should be approached as if you are hiring someone for an important, long-term, job – because you are!

When reaching out to potential contractors, there are a few things to keep in mind.

• Read Reviews – See what others in your area have said about their work. Did they enjoy working with them? Do they love the finished project? Was the contractor professional and reliable?
• Check Insurance – Verify that the contractor has adequate liability insurance to cover any injuries or damages that may occur during construction. 
• Credentials and Licensing – Always make sure that the contractors are licensed to work in your area. Even if they say they service your area, it’s important to check their paperwork.
• Estimates – Get multiple estimates. Even if you think you’ve found the perfect contractor right off the bat, get a second opinion. Compare not only the pricing, but the scope of work, and overall details of the project.
• Subcontractors – Ask about any potential subcontractors your contractor may consider hiring for your project. Don’t be afraid to ask about their experience, reputation, and certifications.

White Maple Construction is a design-build firm, so we handle all aspects of a project from design to completion. We believe in transparent pricing, prompt delivery, and clear communication. Add us to your list of contractors and get a free consultation.

Designing and Planning

Once you’ve selected a contractor, it’s time to get designing!

Depending on the scope of the project, you may choose to work with a designer or architect. You can also choose to work with a design-build contractor, such as White Maple Construction. A design-build contractor not only helps you design your space, but implements those designs as well. We handle every aspect of your project from concept to completion.

After finalizing your design, your contractor will work with you to plot out timelines, set expectations, and help you prepare for your renovation or home addition. These plans should include everything from when materials will be delivered to who will be on-site at what times to the days you need to book a hotel room during major renovation stages.

Permits and Paperwork

Before work can begin, your contractor will obtain the appropriate permits for the work needed for your project. Those permits should be properly displayed in a visible location on your property for the duration of the work. 

Permits are essential to ensuring your project complies with local and state safety codes, building standards, and laws. Oftentimes small projects, such as painting and installing appliances do not require permits. However, projects that involve electrical and plumbing work, structural changes, or other more complicated improvements will likely require permits.

Site Preparation for a Home Addition

Preparing a space for a home remodel can sometimes be more complicated than simply moving valuables to another room. While it is vital to clear all belongings from a workspace, that is only step one. Large-scale renovations, such as home additions, will require the use of heavy equipment, dumpsters, and space for workers. 

Clearing large obstacles, such as plants, earth, and even walls will be done by your contractor and their team. They will prep the space in advance, including sealing off other interior spaces, protecting structures, and more. Check with your contractor to better understand how you can help prepare your space and keep your home and belongings safe during construction.

Renovation and Building Process

During the building process, your home will go through a series of stages, starting with demolition. From there, depending on the scope of the project, your contractor will begin building a foundation for the new space, whether that is framing up new walls or actually pouring a new foundation for an entirely new room. 

Important parts of the process include, in no particular order:

• Adding electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems inside the walls.
• Putting up sheetrock.
• Adding insulation.
• Installing windows and doors
• Adding cabinets, built-in units, and appliances.
• Preparing the walls for and adding the paint, trim, and fixtures.
• Installing flooring, backsplashes, tiled walls, etc.
• Finish the interior and exterior according to your design.

Inspection

After construction is finished, it’s a great idea to hire a home inspector to ensure that the work has been completed correctly. While some projects may involve working with a building code inspector, they are only there to check code requirements and safety standards. A home inspector is there to check everything else. A home inspector works for the homeowner and will always give an unbiased opinion on the work.

Make sure to do your research before hiring an inspector. Much like when looking for a contractor, read reviews and get estimates. Most importantly, make sure you have your space inspected when you are still able to ask the contractor to correct any problems, which is shortly after work is completed. 

Move In

Finally, at the end of the entire process, your home addition is finally complete and ready for moving in. With the hassle and stress of construction a thing of the past, you can relax and enjoy your space. Your home is ready for the next stage in your life. 

A Great Contractor Makes All the Difference

Hiring the right contractor can make or break a renovation project. Don’t be stuck working alongside a team riddled with poor communication skills, hidden fees, and delays. White Maple Construction is committed to clear communication; keeping customers informed and involved from design to completion. 

Known for our focus on delivering your project, we keep any inconveniences to an absolute minimum. We offer great customer service, design, and results, all with their transparent pricing, so you never have to worry about hidden fees.

When it comes to home addition contractors in New Jersey, White Maple Construction stands out among the rest. As longtime locals, owners Ryan and Tom are committed to bringing only the best in design-build contracting to their home state. 

Ready to add to your home? Get in touch with us at White Maple Construction. We have the knowledge, experience, and resources to collaborate with you from the design phase through to the completion of your renovation. Contact us today for your free consultation to get started on your New Jersey additions project.