Adding Dormers

Q: Hi, our house is a cape which has two bedrooms on the first floor and two bedrooms and a half bath on the second floor. At some point in the future, we would like to add dormers (the house is a brick exterior w/a slate roof). Would this project be very costly (can you estimate a range) and about how long would the project take to complete? Also are any permits/licenses required?

A: The best way to get your questions answered is to consult directly with some remodeling contractors in your area. Although laws vary among jurisdictions, in almost all areas, this kind of project would require permits and need to be performed by a licensed general contractor.

I recommend you visit our site at http://www.servicemagic.com and join as a member (it's free!). Then Start a New Project, select Remodels & Home Additions as your project category, then Home Additions and General home addition. Answer the questions in that interview as best you can, describing what you want in the additional details box.

We will match you up with some qualified local remodeling contractors who can give you a general idea of how much this would cost and how long it might take. From there you can decide if the idea is feasible, whether you should hire an architect or building designer to draw your plans before putting it out to bid to general contractors, or choose a Design/Build remodeling contractor to handle the whole project, etc.

Good luck with your project!

Kathy Maynard