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Expanding Back: The Philadelphia Rear Addition Guide
A helpful guide to understanding if a rear addition is right for your Philadelphia rowhome.
2 days ago3 min read


Philadelphia Roof Decks: Everything Homeowners Need to Know in 2026
From permits and structural requirements to design features and project costs, here's everything you need to know before building a roof deck in Philadelphia. Two tier roof deck atop our completed project on Ellsworth Street in Philadelphia. Table of Contents Why Are Roof Decks So Popular in Philadelphia? What Is a Pilot House? How Much Does a Roof Deck Cost in Philadelphia? Can My Philadelphia Home Support a Roof Deck? What Features Should You Include in Your Roof Deck? Do
Jun 94 min read


The Complete Guide to Third-Story Additions in Philadelphia: Everything You Need to Know in 2026
Thinking about adding a third floor to your Philadelphia rowhome? Here's everything you need to know about costs, timelines, permits, and whether it's right for you. 3rd Story Philly co-founders, Phil Katz (left) and Zach Winters (right), standing on the roof of 2051 Waverly Street in Fitler Square mid-construction on a third story addition + roof deck. Table Of Contents: Where Do I Start? What Is a Third-Story Addition? What Does It Actually Cost? The Timeline: What to Expec
Mar 49 min read


Inspiring Future Builders: 3rd Story Philly Connects with Students at Fanny Jackson Coppin School
The future of construction starts with curiosity and learning. Recently, 3rd Story Philly brought that spark to the second graders at Fanny Jackson Coppin School in Passyunk Square. These young students have been exploring math concepts in their classroom, and they got a unique chance to see those lessons come alive through a real construction project happening just outside their window. This visit was more than a field trip; it was a hands-on introduction to the world of bui
Dec 8, 20252 min read


We won Best of Philly - Contractor 2022
3rd Story Philly was given the honor of being named Best Contractor by Philadelphia Magazine. Each year, the magazine offers up it's "Best Of Philly" awards and posts them on their website at phillymag.com. This list is eagerly anticipated by the community as a virtual "Who's Who" list of the best our city and surrounding areas have to offer in every category imaginable. We are humbled to have been awarded this! Thank you Philly Mag!
Nov 7, 20221 min read


3rd Story Philly on front page of Inquirer
A great article written today by real estate columnist, Inga Saffron, on the growing density of neighborhoods and Philadelphia becoming a "Bedroom City." We were honored to be mentioned in the article with owner, Phil Katz, being quoted as saying... Phil Katz, who owns 3rd Story Philly, a firm that specializes in adding third floors to two-story rowhouses, has seen his business double during the pandemic. People “started throwing in the towel after losing out on multiple hom
Nov 7, 20221 min read


"When trading up isn't an option" (Inquirer)
Inga Saffron, real estate critic, from The Philadelphia Inquirer, wrote a great story on third story additions in the city. 3rd Story...
Jun 12, 20221 min read
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