Adding a floor to a house: how does it work and how much does it cost in Quebec?
- coraliefortin076
- Jul 1
- 4 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
Are you short on space in your home but don't want to move or encroach on your property? Adding a floor to a house, even with the cost in Quebec may be the ideal solution. It's a major transformation, of course, but it can completely transform your home while increasing its value. At Plan Maison Québec, we assist many homeowners with this type of ambitious project. Thanks to our expertise in drawing up construction and renovation plans, we help our clients plan each step with rigor and creativity.
In this article, we explain in detail how a second floor project works, from evaluating the existing structure to completing the work, without forgetting the question everyone is asking: how much does it cost?
Why add a story to your house?
When your home becomes too small to meet your family's needs, you have several options. Some consider a side extension, others a basement, but adding a floor is often the most cost-effective solution for those who want to expand without affecting their property's footprint. It's also a great way to optimize urban land where space is limited.
Additionally, adding a second floor to a house allows for more efficient organization of spaces. For example, you could reserve the upper floor for private living:
bedrooms
bathroom
family room
and keep the ground floor for common living areas.
This type of layout not only improves daily comfort, but also the overall aesthetics of your home.
Step 1: Evaluate the feasibility of the project
First and foremost, you need to ensure that the existing structure can support an additional floor. This is a crucial step, as not all homes are designed to be raised. An engineer or architectural technologist can help you check whether the foundations are strong enough and whether the load-bearing walls can absorb the additional load.
At Plan Maison Québec, we always begin this type of project with a thorough assessment. We analyze the house's original plans (or draw up new ones if necessary), then examine the existing construction materials and techniques. Based on these findings, we determine the project's viability.
Step 2: Design the new plans
Once the structure has been deemed adequate, it's time for the design. This is an exciting phase because it's when you begin to imagine what your home will become. The new layout, the volumes, the staircase, the openings, the finishes: everything needs to be rethought.
Our architectural technologists work with you to create a custom plan.
Do you have a clear vision? Perfect, we'll adapt it to the technical constraints and building codes. Feeling undecided? No problem, our team will guide you in making the best choices based on your tastes, budget, and needs. The goal is for the new spaces to integrate perfectly with the existing home, both aesthetically and functionally.
Step 3: Obtain the necessary permits
Before you break out the hammers, you'll need to comply with municipal requirements. Each city in Quebec has its own urban planning code and regulations. Some limit maximum heights, while others impose minimum distances between neighboring structures.
With Plan Maison Québec, you're not alone in this administrative process. We help you put together your file, complete the forms, and submit your plans to obtain the required permits. This process can take a few weeks, depending on the municipality, but it's essential. It's best to have the right support to avoid unnecessary delays or permit rejections.
Step 4: Plan the construction
Once the permits are in place, construction can begin. This is often when things get tricky... unless you're well prepared. Adding a floor isn't like any other renovation. It usually requires removing the existing roof, reinforcing the walls, and installing a new roof after the new floor is built.
Choosing the right contractor is crucial. They must have experience with these types of complex projects, as every detail counts. If you don't know a trusted contractor, Plan Maison Québec can recommend reliable and competent professionals with whom we are used to working. This guarantees quality workmanship, respect for deadlines, and optimal site management.
How much does it cost?
Let's move on to the big question: how much should you budget for a story addition project? The answer depends on several factors, including the additional square footage, the complexity of the work, the quality of the materials, the modifications required to the existing structure, and, of course, the desired finish.
On average, the cost of a story addition ranges between $250 and $370 per square foot in Quebec. This means that for a 1,000-square-foot story, you could expect a budget of $250,000 to $370,000. These figures generally include:
structural work
insulation
interior finishing
roofing
labor costs.
Obviously, every project is unique. A floor with three bedrooms, a bathroom, and a mezzanine will cost more than a simpler, more open space. That's why at Plan Maison Québec, we always offer a personalized estimate based on detailed plans.
Some challenges to anticipate
A project of this magnitude inevitably involves certain challenges. You may have to temporarily vacate the house during the work, particularly during roof removal. There may also be delays due to weather or unforeseen structural issues.
That said, with proper planning and professional support, these inconveniences are more than offset by the end result: a transformed home that's more spacious, more comfortable, and often more beautiful than before.
Conclusion : adding a floor to a house - cost in Quebec
Adding a floor is not a project to be taken lightly. It requires technical knowledge, rigorous coordination, and a solid overall vision. Fortunately, at Plan Maison Québec, we have the experience, the tools, and the team to support you every step of the way.
Do you dream of more space without moving? Do you want to upgrade your home to adapt it to your current needs? We will discuss your project together, assess its feasibility, and propose a customized architectural plan to make your dream a reality. With Plan Maison Québec, you're in good hands to expand your home intelligently and sustainably.
Start your project today
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