Introduction

Building an extension onto your home is an excellent way to increase living space, improve functionality, and enhance its overall value. However, constructing an extension may present unique challenges if your property is situated on a slope or steep gradient. With careful planning, thoughtful design, and innovative construction techniques, you can overcome these obstacles to create an aesthetically pleasing and practical addition to your living environment.

Slopes and Grades

Slope: The incline or decline between two points in elevation over distance.

Grade: Measures this incline as either percent (%) or decimal fraction (). The following formula calculates grade: ag = (Rise / Run ) x 100%, where:
– ag = Grade expressed as percentage (%)
– r = Change in elevation (rise)
– d = Horizontal distance (run)

Example

Suppose you want to calculate the grade of land that rises by six feet over ten horizontal feet:

ag=(6ft/10ft)*100%=60%

(This means that there is a slope of 60%, which would be considered quite steep.)

Benefits

• Enhanced aesthetic appeal – When designed well, extensions built into hillsides blend seamlessly into their natural environments while providing visual interest.
• Improved views – Elevated extensions offer vantage points unattainable at ground level.
• Better ventilation – Fresh air circulation tends naturally to flow downwards towards lower levels, creating healthier indoor environments compared to flat sites without proper wind flow channels.

Floor plans and blueprints are essential documents for homeowners, especially when planning renovation projects, additions, repairs, or even when buying or selling a house. These documents provide valuable information about a property’s layout, design, and construction details. However, not all homeowners have access to their original floor plans or blueprints. In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss various methods to find and obtain these documents, along with their benefits and tips for creating accurate plans.

Methods to Find and Obtain Floor Plans or Blueprints

Checking with Local Government

• Search for property records online or contact the city/county clerk’s office to ask about architectural documents.
• They may have the name of your home’s builder, which allows you to contact them directly for the plans.

Requesting Plans from Your Home’s Builder

• Locate the phone number and contact the firm that built your home.
• Request the blueprints if they are available; there may be administrative fees.

Commissioning “As Built” Plans of Your Home

• Find a local firm that specializes in creating “As Built” plans.
• Commission plans for your home or part of it, which will include major structural details and cost roughly $0.50 USD per square foot.

Benefits of Having Floor Plans or Blueprints for Your House

Understanding the Design

• Blueprints provide valuable insight into your home’s original design intentions and layout.
• Adhering to Original Design: By following the blueprints, you can maintain the aesthetic and functional integrity of your home while making changes.

Navigating Complex Systems

• Blueprints help you navigate the complex systems within your home, such as electrical wiring, plumbing, HVAC, and structural components.
• Ensuring Safety: Understanding the layout and location of critical systems can help you identify potential hazards or areas that require maintenance.

Planning Renovations

• Blueprints serve as an essential tool when planning renovations or remodels.
• Visualizing the changes before making costly commitments and minimizing potential errors.

Tips for Creating Accurate Plans

• Include all essential details: Measurements, wall thicknesses, electrical outlets, major pipes/wires, and structural components.
• Hire professionals, if necessary: Architects, engineers, or contractors for complex projects.
• Use appropriate tools: Grid paper, drafting software, or other suitable tools.

Conclusion

Obtaining floor plans or blueprints for your house is an invaluable resource for understanding its design, history, and structure. By utilizing the methods discussed in this article, you can access the information contained within these documents, ensuring that any renovations or improvements are informed by accurate and precise documentation.