Converting your attic into usable space can be a cost-effective way of adding value to your home. There are important issues to be considered when remodeling an attic, like heating and ventilation. Typically, attics can be hot in the summer and cold in the winter. With proper insulation, adequate venting, and by tying your attic into your existing HVAC system these issues can be addressed. |
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Consult a Structural Engineer |
| Have your attic inspected to see if structural changes need to made to make the space safe and usable. The existing floor may not support an increased load. |
Get Plans Made |
Getting a professional architect involved right from the start can prevent costly mistakes and ensure that you maximize the available square footage. Their design will be tailored to your attic and should integrate, rather than just hide, any vent stacks and chimneys. Emergency egress through a window, HVAC, electrical and plumbing all need to be up to local code. An architect will incorporate all of this in the design plans. |
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Stairs will, of course, also be needed. This can eat up a lot of floor area. Your blueprints should incorporate the best way for getting up and down from the new attic space, including sufficient headroom and clearance.
Architectural plans should ensure that any dormers or skylights are properly configured to fit in with your current home design.
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Keep Your Attic Flexible |
While it is often your particular need for space that necessitates a renovation, it is good to consider what future buyers might want the space for. You should keep the rooms versatile so as not to limit your market. |
Skylights allow natural light to fill the attic and make it appear more airy and spacious.
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Possible Uses: |
Second and third floor attics have the potential of becoming great apartments, which can be used for older children or renter income.
Some garages have been built with the plan of adding an apartment later on. |
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Apartment
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Bedrooms
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Storage
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Home Office
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Den / Living room
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Bathroom
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Guestroom
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Children's' Play Area
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Theater / Media Room
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Home Gym
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Dormers - Let There be Light |
Dormers invite light and add extra space to your attic.
They also become an architectural focal point on your home's exterior, adding to its curb appeal. |
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| Attics can be dark and cramped because of short walls and low, slanting ceilings. Window at the gable ends, dormers and skylights all bring in much needed light. Dormers not only allow sunlight in, but they also raise the roof lines and provide extra usable space. |
| Additionally, windows from attic level rooms offer unique treetop views that many ground-level occupants would envy. |
Get your attic renovation done right! Our architects and contractors can help your with your attic remodeling project! |
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