How to Remodel Room Additions

Sketch the room addition exterior. Figure out if a new roof for the whole house, when all roofing materials are replaced, should include changes for the addition's roof. Plan to expand overhangs and add guttering, for example, to make the addition blend seamlessly.

Plan wall colors and window treatments for the interior. Choose paint, drapes, blinds or curtains, so that walls and windows complement nearby rooms. Paint the walls pale taupe, for example, to match walls in a nearby kitchen. Hang plantation blinds or shutters in the room addition that look identical to such window treatments in a nearby family room.

Figure out practical needs before work begins. Choose colors and materials, but also sketch a new bathroom or closet to construct. Talk with an electrician about recessed lighting or special duct work needed for heating and cooling vents. Use the remodel as an opportunity to buy a bigger heat pump for the whole house, if needed. Ask a plumber to help you figure how water pipes and drains can fit for a new bathroom.

Use graph paper to draw physical changes and upgrades. Sketch a bird's eye view, along with views of each wall facade, before you visit the home improvement store. Pick out paint, tile or hardwood flooring carefully. Don't purchase anything for construction until you obtain a building permit.

Hire a general contractor to oversee the project. Define an exact budget, schedule and list of workers. Sit down with the contractor to finalize plans. Ask him to help you create a workable timeline, so that family schedules for work and school can mesh with the remodeling schedule.