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2nd story addition feasibility

K

kjmass1

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Dec 20, 2021
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Location
Boston, MA
I have a 1940s home which at some point had a small addition added in the back. 2x4 walls on concrete foundation, 4”x6” header, 2x8 slightly notched floor joists, with brick fire blocking. I’m exploring adding a second story on top of this, or even possibly a third to tie in to the finished attic space. Can I work with this or will it need to be reinforced? Engineer will be scoped of course but just trying to gauge what I’m working with. Thanks!

https://imgur.com/a/wpql2QK
 
The issues you mentioned are not going to be the biggest considerations.

For a multiplicity of reasons you will not find the solution in the IRC. What you need is an engineer to design the additions.
 
The picture provides enough information to suspect that a two story addition will start from the ground up with an engineered plan.
 
No it doesn't mean you have to tear everything down. The engineer will develop a solution that keeps as much of the existing as is feasible.
 
The issues start with the foundation. Your existing foundation is unknown. In my experience an engineer would specify a footing that does not exist. …..but I am in California and foundations are given extra scrutiny. Beyond the foundation is the underwhelming framing shown in the picture.
 
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