Birchcliff Heights bungalows — the solid brick homes built along the Birch Cliff Ave corridor in the 1940s and 1960s, close to the Scarborough Bluffs — are ideal candidates for a second storey addition. Kopman Build has been adding second storeys to Toronto homes since 1999, managing everything from structural engineering and permits through to final finishes.
Birchcliff Heights is an established Scarborough neighbourhood where families routinely choose to renovate rather than leave. The 1940s–1960s solid brick construction that defines the Birch Cliff Ave corridor is structurally sound and an excellent foundation for a full second storey addition — but it requires a contractor with the experience to read existing structures accurately and integrate new work cleanly. Kopman Build brings that experience to every project.
Homes in Birchcliff Heights sit close to the Scarborough Bluffs, on mature lots with established setbacks, and in a neighbourhood where the streetscape matters. Our second storey additions are designed to look like they were always there — proper proportions, matching brick tones where possible, and architectural detailing that respects the surrounding context.
Dustin Kopman founded the company in 1999 after growing up working in construction through his family's firm. Every Birchcliff Heights project is led by someone who understands the craft, not just the contract.
Engineer-led review of existing foundations, floor systems, and brick walls before design is finalised — no surprises mid-build.
Complete upper-floor addition above the existing footprint — bedrooms, bathrooms, hallways, and mechanical all coordinated as one scope.
Adding a second storey above a portion of the home — useful where zoning, budget, or existing structure dictates a phased approach.
Full City of Toronto building permit and zoning review management, including Committee of Adjustment applications where required.
Sourcing brick and exterior materials that blend with the existing 1940s–1960s Birchcliff Heights building stock for a coherent result.
Coordinated main-floor renovation alongside the addition — new staircase, updated kitchen, and refreshed living areas all in one project.
We visit your Birchcliff Heights property, listen to your goals, and document the project in writing — scope, budget, and timeline.
A detailed line-item estimate with allowances and contingencies, so you know the number before committing.
We manage all permit applications, structural engineering consultants, and City approvals — nothing falls through the cracks.
Full-time site supervision, weekly updates, and open-book cost tracking throughout the project.
Structured handover with all documentation, warranties, and a 12-month attendance window post-completion.
A full second storey addition on a Birchcliff Heights bungalow typically runs $350,000–$650,000+, depending on the footprint, structural scope, and finish level. The solid brick construction common in the neighbourhood's 1940s–1960s stock is excellent to build on, but the existing floor structure and roof must be carefully assessed and often upgraded. Kopman Build provides a detailed pre-construction estimate before any commitment.
Yes. A second storey addition in Birchcliff Heights requires a building permit from the City of Toronto and typically triggers a zoning review for height, setbacks, and lot coverage. Depending on your specific lot and the proposed design, a Committee of Adjustment minor variance may be required. Kopman Build manages the full permit and approval process on your behalf.
In most cases, yes — the solid brick construction typical of Birchcliff Heights homes built in the 1940s–1960s is structurally robust. However, a structural engineer must assess the existing foundation, floor joists, and wall assembly before design is finalised. Kopman Build coordinates this assessment as part of our pre-construction process, so you have a clear structural picture before committing.
From permit submission to occupancy, expect 12–18 months total. City of Toronto permitting for a second storey addition typically takes 4–8 months, followed by 7–12 months of construction. We provide a project-specific timeline at the start of pre-construction, and we keep you updated weekly throughout the build.
Kopman Build builds second storey additions on Scarborough's best brick bungalows. No-obligation consultation — we come to your property.
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