p>Anytime you are looking for a structural solution like this you would need to consult with an engineer. But I don’t see any reason that would prevent you outright from having a cantilevered second floor. How far you can go and which materials you should use would for sure be an engineering decision though.</p> <p>For your final cladding, <a href="/guides/2351/exterior-cladding/" target="_blank">check here on our page on choosing exterior siding for options</a>. If you never want to go there again, you may need to lean towards metal, or maybe brick or stucco. Most wood products would need to be re-finished after 15 years, or even less when exposed to full sun on the south side.</p> <p> </p