How much will it cost for me to extend my kitchen by adding to my house?

Question

I would like to extend my current small kitchen by utilizing the existing concrete patio that is directly conected to the kitchen area. A sliding glass door separates the two. I reside in Los Angeles county. A friend of mine stated that the patio may not be deep enough to meet code and be used as a foundation.
Also, would this be something I should try myself?

Thanks!

Answer 1

A patio is just concrete floating on the ground. It also most likely tilts to allow water runoff. A home addition foundation needs to have footers put in and the concrete leveled to the current floor level. This job requires concrete, electrical, framing, insulation, and cabinet maker contractors. It's a huge job. You might be able to do some of the work like me but I hired a contractor to dry-in the extension. I then painted the outside and began the inside work. It was a huge job. The extension was 12,000 and the cabinets were 10,000. Then I spent perhaps another 5,000 on finishing it out. That's in Georgia. I heard California is a lot more.

Get a contractor

Answer 2

Your friend is right. The patio slab probably isn't earthquake rated and therefore could not be utilized to build upon.

As far as cost goes it would depend on many factors: what is the area of the addition? Will there be plumbing in the addition? What types of fixtures? What is the veneer of the house i.e.: brick, siding, stucco?

Your best bet is to contact some local contractors and solicit bids. Ask people you know about the work they have had done on their houses for referrals.

Answer 3

Your kitchen will cost enough that you would not want it sitting on a patio. Please hire a contractor and put in the correct foundation to start with. The cost will be considerable but worth it. I don't know you ability level but with the added aggravation leave it to the pros.