Home Additions & Extensions: Expanding Your Living Space the Right Way
- Zack Jurkowski
- Mar 9
- 4 min read
Home Additions & Extensions: Expanding Your Living Space the Right Way

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Thinking About Expanding Your Home? Read This First.
Your home was perfect when you moved in—until it wasn’t. Whether your family is growing, you need a dedicated home office, or your dream kitchen just doesn’t fit in your existing layout, a home addition or extension might be the right move. Instead of going through the hassle of selling and buying a new home, expanding your space lets you stay where you are while getting the extra room you need.
But a home addition isn’t just about throwing up some walls and calling it a day. It’s a major structural change that needs to be planned properly to blend seamlessly with your home’s existing layout, look, and function. At MTL Contractors, we specialize in high-end, well-executed home additions that make your home feel bigger, better, and more valuable—without looking like an afterthought.
Here’s what you need to know before taking the plunge.
Types of Home Additions & Extensions
Not all additions are created equal. The type of expansion that works for you depends on your home’s structure, lot size, and needs.
1. Rear or Side Extensions
Great for expanding kitchens, dining rooms, or living areas
Adds square footage without changing the home’s overall height
Best suited for properties with space in the backyard or side yard
2. Second-Story Additions
Ideal for bungalows or small homes needing extra bedrooms
Requires significant structural reinforcement to support an additional floor
Great way to maximize space without sacrificing yard area
3. Bump-Outs & Micro Additions
Smaller extensions that add just enough space for a specific feature (like a larger bathroom or breakfast nook)
Less expensive and less disruptive than full additions
Great for targeted improvements without altering the entire footprint
4. Garage Conversions & Additions
Turn an unused garage into a functional living space
Add a second story above an existing garage for extra square footage
Perfect for creating a rental unit, guest suite, or extra storage
Each type of addition has its own challenges, costs, and benefits. At MTL Contractors, we help you determine the best option based on your goals, budget, and property limitations.
What to Consider Before Adding to Your Home
A home addition is a big investment, so careful planning is key. Here are the major factors to think about before moving forward:
✅ Design & Engineering
The first step is working with our designer to create a space that fits your lifestyle and needs.
Next, our structural engineer ensures the design is both safe and buildable.
Once the design and structural plans are finalized, we move on to permitting and approvals to get the project ready for construction.
✅ Zoning & Permits
Not every property can accommodate an addition. Montreal zoning laws regulate what you can and can’t build.
You’ll need permits and approvals before starting construction.
We handle all the paperwork and ensure compliance with city regulations.
✅ Structural Considerations
Your existing home needs to support the new addition. If you’re adding a second story, for example, we may need to reinforce the foundation and framing.
Proper integration with your existing layout is crucial—an addition should feel like it was always part of the home.
✅ Budget & Cost Expectations
Additions aren’t cheap, but they add significant value to your home.
Costs vary based on size, materials, and structural modifications.
We provide transparent estimates upfront, so there are no surprises.
How Much Does a Home Addition Cost?
💰 Cost Breakdown
💰 Bump-Out or Small Extension ($50K - $100K)
Expands a single room
Requires minimal structural changes
Great for kitchens, bathrooms, or additional storage
💰 Full Addition ($100K - $250K+)
Adds an entirely new section to the home
Includes new foundation, walls, roofing, and interior finishing
Ideal for expanding living areas or bedrooms
💰 Second-Story Addition ($200K - $400K+)
Requires extensive structural reinforcement
Often involves a full remodel of the lower floor as well
Great for maximizing living space without sacrificing yard area
At MTL Contractors, we specialize in custom, high-end home additions that add value and function while blending seamlessly with your existing home.
Why Work With MTL Contractors?
Your home isn’t just another project—it’s where life happens. That’s why we don’t do cookie-cutter renovations. Every space we design and build is tailored to fit your needs, style, and long-term goals.
Here’s what makes us different:
✅ Custom, High-End Design – We prioritize craftsmanship and quality over mass-produced, one-size-fits-all solutions.
✅ Licensed, Bonded & Insured – No cutting corners. No surprises. Just expert work, done right.
✅ Honest Pricing & No BS – We give you real numbers upfront, so you know what to expect.
✅ A Team You Can Trust – We handle everything from design to execution, so you’re never stuck managing multiple contractors on your own.
If you’re ready to expand your home with expert renovations, let’s talk. Book a consultation with MTL Contractors today and let’s bring your vision to life.
🚀 Don’t forget! Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and subscribe to our YouTube channel for more expert renovation tips!
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