If you're lucky enough to have a full sized attic one in which you can stand you've got an opportunity to increase your property value while gaining extra living space. Maybe that attic is stuffed to the gills with boxes of seasonal clothing, sports gear, heavy bedding, old toys and the like. While the floor may be sturdy, dust and cobwebs may be the only decorations featured in this potential new living space. Attic remodeling need not be prohibitively expensive, as is the case with a kitchen or bathroom. More good news on an attic remodel: you can do most of the work yourself and, in stages you can afford as you go along.
Even a small attic makes a great home office, playroom for kids or a terrific bedroom for teens. You might also use the space as an indoor 'potting shed' to start your vegetables and flowers during the cold winter months to get a jump on the season.
Your first step might be to get out the vacuum and make the attic safe to work in without wearing a face mask! Then, go through all of your boxes and sort out those boxed up items, making piles of things which can simply be tossed like the toaster you were going to fix ten years ago and start cleaning up. You're sure to come across clothing, shoes, toys and other items you can hold a garage sale and make a few bucks selling. You can also donate items to charity. In short, you can pare down the contents of the attic quickly. Store sporting goods and seasonal items in the garage. Depending on the size of your attic, you might consider building closet space into your attic remodeling plan.
Checking building codes and permits is essential before you begin an attic remodel designed to serve as living space. If you try to sidestep the official seal of approval, the authorities can force you to dismantle your entire finished attic remodel! The building codes, permits and necessary inspections are designed to protect people from hazardous situations, so bite the bullet and get through the red tape.
Now it's time to assess the space you have to work with and develop your design ideas. The rafters lend charm and a quaint feel to this living space, so a coat of stain may be all you need to bring a desirable, rustic finish to the ceiling. If your attic is not already insulated, now is the time to do it. Installing insulation keeps your attic cozy in winter and cooler in summer, while reducing your energy costs at the same time. Inexpensive wood paneling can be installed between the rafters for a nicely finished ceiling.
Consider the flooring as well. If the floor is plywood, or less than attractive planking, you can put in carpeting for a luxurious, soft surface. You might also divide the space, carpeting a portion and laying new wood the DIY tongue-in-groove type over the remainder of the floor. During this stage of planning an attic remodel, brainstorm for ideas of features you most want to incorporate. How about a free-standing fireplace? Dormer windows with window seats and storage space beneath the seats? An attic remodel can be a beauty of a project: the living space is there. All that's required is mainly finish work.
If you do opt for a fireplace, skylight or dormer windows, it's best to hire a qualified carpenter to do the job. These are more expensive features, but do certainly add substantial value and charm to your property.
When your working out your budget, be sure to allow for hiring an electrician, unless you're confident and competent enough to pass inspection. If in doubt, use a professional!
Built-ins, like desks, closets, shelving and seating are naturals for an attic remodeling project. Investing in a home design software program is smart. You can try out different configurations and plan every last detail of your project before spending a penny.
As for access to your new attic living space, this depends on your use. The pull-down ladder may work, but if you've got kids, you may want to install a staircase entry from the story below for extra safety. Spiral, wrought iron staircases are a good space-saving solution in many home layouts.
Obtain the necessary permits and be sure of the points of construction requiring an inspection. You're good to go! An attic remodel can be a truly satisfying project which pays you back in the long run.
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