Introduction
In Quebec — whether in Montreal, Laval, or surrounding areas — many homeowners face a key decision:
Should I strengthen the structure and foundations to add a floor… or demolish and start from scratch?
The right choice depends on the condition of your home, municipal regulations, and your financial goals.
Factors to Consider
1️⃣ Condition of the Foundations and Structure
A structural engineer will assess the integrity of your foundations and load-bearing walls.
- Strong foundations → possible to expand with targeted reinforcement
- Weak foundations → higher risk, sometimes more cost-effective to rebuild
2️⃣ Load-Bearing Capacity
Precise calculation of wall, column, and foundation capacity to handle the extra weight, following the Quebec Building Code.
3️⃣ Municipal Regulations
Cities like Montreal, Laval, and Longueuil each have rules on maximum height, setbacks, and permits.
4️⃣ Cost: Expansion vs Rebuild
- Expanding → often cheaper if the structure is in good shape
- Rebuilding → fully custom design, sometimes more cost-effective if major repairs are needed
5️⃣ Resale Value and Lifespan
Expanding increases living space, while rebuilding modernizes the entire property for decades.
How Florcon Helps You Decide
- Full inspection by an OIQ-certified structural engineer
- Load and capacity analysis
- Cost-benefit comparison between expansion and rebuilding
- Recommendations tailored to your property and budget
📞 Wondering if your home can support another floor or if you should rebuild? Contact Florcon today for a personalized assessment.
Add a Floor or Rebuild? How to Choose the Best Option for Your Home in Quebec