How to a build a 2 bed by 4 double story apartment

Building a double story apartment is an exciting journey that begins with a solid foundation and is followed by the intricate process of framing. This article will walk you through a step-by-step guide to ensuring that your structure stands on firm ground and is supported by a robust frame that defines the future of your living space. 

From preparing the site to raising the upper floor, a careful approach is essential for the longevity and safety of the building.

Step 1: 

Site Preparation

Before you start the actual construction, it is crucial to prepare the building site. Clear the area of any debris, vegetation, or obstacles. If there’s an existing structure, demolition might be necessary. After clearing, level the site adequately to prevent any future drainage issues. You will also need to have the soil tested to determine if it can bear the load of a double story apartment. Soil with a firm, non-reactive nature is preferred. In some cases, soil stabilization or the use of piers can be needed to ensure a sturdy foundation.

Step 2: 

Design and Permits

Engage with an architect or a drafts-person to design your double story apartment. Ensure the design complies with local building codes and zoning regulations. After finalizing your design, submit the plans to the relevant municipality or local government for approval. Acquiring a building permit can take time, so factor this into your project timeline.

Step 3:  

Foundation Construction 

With permits in hand, commence the foundation work. There are several types of foundations, but for double story apartments, a concrete slab or a footing and stem wall foundation are commonly used. Professional engineers will typically oversee this work to ensure it complies with the structural requirements.

Dig the trenches for the footings based on the approved plan.

Lay down rebar grids within the trenches to reinforce the concrete.

Pour the concrete for the footings and ensure they are level and to the correct dimensions.

Allow the footings to cure before proceeding to the next stage. This may take several days depending on the weather conditions and the type of concrete used.

After the footings have cured, lay the blocks or pour the stem walls if necessary, connecting them to the footings with rebar.

If a concrete slab is chosen, prepare the area within the stems for pouring by laying down a layer of gravel, adding any necessary plumbing or electrical conduits, and placing a moisture barrier.

Install the mesh or rebar within the prepared area to reinforce the concrete slab.

Pour the concrete slab, ensuring a smooth, level finish.

Allow the slab to cure for as long as recommended by the concrete supplier.

Step 4: First Floor Framing

The foundation is just the beginning. Now, framing the first floor begins, which will set the stage for the entire structure. Careful consideration must be given to the framing to ensure that the floors, walls, and roof are level and square.

Begin by installing sill plates on top of the foundation walls. These plates should be pressure-treated lumber and securely bolted down.

Lay out the locations of the first-floor joists on the sill plates.

Install the rim joists around the perimeter and then place the floor joists at the predetermined intervals.

After installing the floor joists, secure a subfloor on top, which adds rigidity to the structure and provides a working platform for the next phases.

Upon completing the subfloor, begin constructing the exterior walls, ensuring they are plumb and square.

Sheath the exterior walls with plywood or OSB (oriented strand board), and add a weather-resistant barrier before proceeding with any exterior finishes.

Interior partition walls are also framed at this stage but are not load-bearing. These can be adjusted later if necessary, but careful planning at this stage will save time and materials.

Step 5: 

First Floor Utilities and Inspections

Once the first floor is framed, it’s time to run the initial electrical, plumbing, and HVAC ductwork. It is essential that these systems are installed correctly to avoid problems after wall and ceiling finishes are applied. Local building codes typically require inspections at this phase, so ensure that you have all installations checked and approved before moving forward.

Step 6: 

First Floor Sheathing and Roof Preparation

With the interior walls framed and the utilities installed, sheath the first floor with the same care as the exterior walls, using plywood or OSB. Then begin preparations for the second story. This may involve installing a ledger board for the second-story floor joists or constructing a second set of walls that bear on the first-floor walls.

Step 7: 

Second Story Framing

The second level of your double story apartment will require careful planning and execution, as it must be properly supported by the first floor and the foundation beneath it.

Frame the second floor in a similar fashion to the first. Install the floor joists, rim joists, sub-floor, and the exterior and interior walls.

Add sheathing and the weather-resistant barrier to the exterior walls as done earlier.

Confirm that the structure is properly aligned and make any necessary adjustments.

Step 8: 

Second Story Utilities and Roof Framing

With the second story framed, repeat the process of running electrical, plumbing, and HVAC lines. Subsequent inspections must be passed before you close up the walls. Afterwards, it’s time to focus on the roof which entails rafters or trusses depending on the design of the building. The roof must be securely fastened to the top of the second-story walls.

Install roof trusses or rafters, ensuring that they are properly spaced and secured.

Deck the roof with suitable sheathing panels.

Apply roofing felt and then finish with the selected roofing material, be it shingles, tiles, or metal roofing.

Step 9: 

Exterior and Interior Finishes

With the basic structure of the double story apartment complete, the finishing touches can now be added. Exterior finishes such as siding, brickwork, or stucco can be applied, and windows and doors can be installed. Inside, drywall, flooring, cabinets, fixtures, and paint will transform the framed structure into a livable space.

Building a foundation and framing a double story apartment requires attention to detail, adherence to codes, and a sequence of steps that must be followed for a successful outcome. A double story apartment is not only an investment in property but in the careful planning and execution of construction processes that ensure its safety, durability, and aesthetic appeal.

Each stage in this process is critical and requires the input of skilled professionals to guide the project towards successful completion. The foundation must be strong and true, and the framing must align perfectly to support not just the weight of the building, but the lives of those who will inhabit the spaces within. 

By understanding and adhering to these steps, you are on your way to building a double story apartment that stands the test of time.