About the project

The clients had an unused separate 1850 sf commercial building on their rural residential country property which they wanted to convert into an additional residential unit (ARU).

Project scope

First, an assessment of current structure and services was undertaken to determine:

a)    the extent of damage to wood sill plates and wall studs due to previous water leakage

b)   the depth and size of existing perimeter building footings, and

c)    if there were adequate supports below existing steel columns supporting large steel beams

d)   what upgrades were required to the existing well

e)    what upgrades were required to the existing septic system

Secondly, a minor variance application was required to be applied for to allow for an additional residential unit that exceeded the maximum floor area permitted for an ARU in the municipality. I prepared the application and submitted and presented the application to the Committee of Adjustment. The application was successful.

The construction phase involved the following work:

·      Upgrades to the existing septic system (new baffle, filter and cover)

·      Upgrades to well, specifically new pump and pressure tank (no photos included)

·      Structural upgrades including new steel columns to relocate beam bearing points to exterior foundation walls, temporary shoring of existing steel beam to install new interior column pad footing

·      Removal of roof in future great room and totally new roof system and exterior wall with windows

·      Cutting concrete floor to install new underground plumbing

·      Major upgrades to insulation systems in roof and existing walls

·      Use of top-quality exterior air barrier membrane and breathable interior vapour barrier system by SIGA to ensure healthy assemblies that can dissipate moisture

·      Timber frame awning at front entrance and rear patio door

·      Creation of 3 bedrooms with cathedral ceilings, new washroom with washer/dryer

·      Major corrections to grading including catch basin and drywell (water was entering building previously in the spring snow melt)

·      Moving roof water discharge away from building perimeter

The result is a beautiful, energy efficient additional 3-bedroom residential unit that not only increased the value of the property but also provides a good steady rental income for the retired property owners and is a barrier-free adaptable should they wish to move in in the future.

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