I have a one story 40 x20 cabin on 20 acres in North Idaho. It has a pier foundation. I am in the process of trying to decide whether to remodel and add to the existing cabin or build a brand new home on one of the many prim building sites on my land. One option I am considering is adding a large bedroom as an "L" extension using John's Lil House Plans. My major concern is the ability to cut in a gable roof connection to the existing metal roof. Any opinions or advice on the complexity of this project for an inexperienced owner/builder.
I have attached a picture of the existing cabin. The addition would me made to the left half coming out from where there is currently a unfinished enclosed porch.
Thanks.
IF I was happy with the cabin/house as is, except for wanting more room(s) my personal preference would be to add on.
Adding on, connecting the roofs, is not all that big a deal. I've added on to an asphalt shingled roof in a similar manner. You erect the new addition, new rafters/trusses, build a cricket (the space filler between the new and old roofs). That involves cutting the old roofing, sheathing, installing valleys,etc. But less work than a complete new building, IMHO. But then, you might want a big change, big project. ??
You call the shots. :) G/L ... be interested in following this.
Is that solar used as auxiliary or sole power source?
I see a wind generator too.
The roofing can be cut in several ways, but probably best for a DIYer would be to take them off - build the cricket- install the valley flashing then lay out and cut the sheets using an abrasive cut off blade in a skill saw.
It would be easier to make the addition to the gable end of the building, if possible. Keep the roofline below the existing roofline, and make the connection at the siding instead of the roof. By doing this, you keep from having to cut into that nice metal roof.
It might also be easier to attach a mud room to the back and have it also going to the addition, as in the gallery where someone attached a VC to the builder's cottage via a mud room? Just a thought. The roof looks nice and I'd hate to mess it up!
Can you post a floorplan and tell us what the new space needs to be? (like; bedroom, larger kitchen, bath etc).
I'm sure the creative minds that frequent this forum might come up with some (more specific) options worthy of exploration.