What are shed dormers and why are they so popular around here?
The Twin Cities are filled with story-and-a-half homes that are perfect for a certain kind of addition, called a shed dormer. Learn more about this popular remodeling project.
Follow along as we build a shed dormer addition along the upper level of this St. Paul Cape Cod.
Aiming to keep the newly designed upper level as open as possible, we needed to find a way to introduce a structural system that would take the roof loads to the foundation below without adding bulky columns throughout the plan. Our office coordinated with an engineer to develop the appropriate solution, which included a new ridge beam at the center of the roof, blocking just below, a new lvl beam (laminated veneer lumber) above the existing windows, additional posts situated under the lvl at the exterior wall, and a final LVL below to disperse the structural loads to the rest of the home and foundation below. Without bulking up the structural supports at the exterior walls, we would have needed a column in the center of the floor plan and a corresponding point load on the main level which would then require additional changes to the basement and foundation!
With the major structural elements configured, here’s how we moved forward:
And the changes to the home are now evident. By keeping the dormer to the back of the home, homeowners retain the quaint cape cod aesthetic which transitions to a more modern composition along the sides and rear elevation. The new windows are further proof of the added space provided by removing the steeply sloping gable. Our next steps will be to rough-in important elements like lighting, mechanical, and plumbing and then insulate before the drywall encloses the walls for good.
We’re here to help! Check out our planning resources below, or reach out to us here.