During the restoration process, you may want to add space -- either with an addition on the back or side of the home, or by adding a second story. You should know that most additions will have to be built at the elevation required for new construction, even if your home was not damaged enough to require elevation. When adding a second story, you will probably have to elevate the existing building first. Check with the permit office on the requirements for elevating when adding space.

Be careful. An oversized addition can overwhelm the house and produce unexpected effects. To avoid oversights, consider how the new construction will affect your current home and property. A large addition may swallow too much of your outdoor space. It may also prevent light from accessing existing rooms if they will be blocked from the exterior by the new addition.

Be patient. Although you may be anxious to inhabit your spacious new addition, the project will inevitably take longer than anticipated. Don’t get discouraged.

In the first phase of the planning process, evaluate your family’s long-term needs. If you have children who will likely move out in the near future, building an additional bedroom may not be necessary. Don’t build what won’t be used.