Is Renovating an Attic Worth It?
You may want to create more space in your home but don’t have the budget to add a new extension to the existing structure. In this case, working with what you already have can be more cost effective and require less effort. While a finished basement is one option, your home may not have underground space. Even if it does, you need to consider floor moisture and how to prevent it from seeping through.
An attic remodel doesn’t entail the same moisture issues, but it’s important that your attic has proper insulation if you live in a cold or snowy climate. If your attic has any windows, you have the benefit of natural lighting for the space.
Considerations Before You Remodel Your Attic
Before you start planning your attic remodel, you’ll need to determine if your space meets building codes; otherwise, you can’t proceed with remodeling it. Not every attic is suitable for remodeling, and some may require significant amounts of work before they’re safe to use. Building codes exist to prevent homeowners from creating dangerous or unsuitable living spaces. Some things to review before your remodel include:
- Floor Space and Ceiling Height: Your space must have at least 70 square feet of floor space and extend 7 feet in any direction. The ceiling must also have a height of 7-1/2 feet or more in at least half of the space.
- Rafters Versus Trusses: If rafters hold up your roof, you may be able to renovate your attic. If trusses hold up your roof, it’ll be extremely difficult or impossible to reconfigure them to create open attic space.
- Safe Flooring: Typical attic floors aren’t suitable for people to stand and walk on. You may need to alter the joists so they can support live loads and then lay down a subfloor that you can install your chosen flooring on top of.
- Access and Secondary Exits: Attics that don’t serve as living spaces typically have a ladder that you use to get to them, but this isn’t sufficient if you plan to renovate your attic. You’ll need to install a staircase that’s up to code. Depending on your area’s regulations, you may also need to have a second exit point, such as a window, that isn’t the staircase.
- Existing Utilities: If your existing attic doesn’t have the necessary plumbing, electrical, or heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) hookups, you’ll need to hire a professional to install them, which can greatly increase the project cost.
These are some general factors to consider, but make sure you follow all codes and regulations for your area.
Creative Attic Remodeling Ideas
Once you’re certain that your attic space meets building code requirements, you can start brainstorming attic renovation ideas to make your attic more usable.
How Do I Redesign My Attic?
Guest Bedroom
Provide space for friends and loved ones by turning your attic into a cozy guest bedroom. Depending on how much square footage you’re working with, you might even be able to add a bathroom to ensure that guests have their own private area.
Space for a New Playroom
Give children a place of their own to play in without sacrificing space downstairs. Consider making the playroom very colorful and embracing storage solutions that’ll help you neatly organize toys and games.
A Quiet Office
Carve out a calm workspace for yourself at the very top of your home. Whether you use it as a home office or a place to work on a side project, your attic space can be a serene environment separate from the rest of your home. This can be particularly helpful if you work from home but struggle to find separation between your workday and your private life.
At-Home Spa Experience
You can certainly add another bathroom to your remodeled attic, but why not go a step further and turn your attic into your own personal oasis? Create your own spa with a soaking tub, vanity or other bathroom feature that appeals to you. Add in a meditation area or a place to do yoga to enhance your new space.
Private Library
If you’re an avid reader or want to be, turn your attic into a library and fill it with all of your books. Consider using built-in bookshelves to maximize the wall space. Create warm and cozy lighting with wall sconces. Fill the space with a large, comfortable couch or chairs to complete your reading nook.
Entertainment Room
You don’t have to be a celebrity or millionaire to create your own media room or home theater. Mount a flat-screen TV or hang a projector to enjoy movies or TV shows. Choose low, comfortable couches that you and your guests can relax on.
Make It a Suite
Keep your bedroom private by moving it to your attic. Since the rest of your house’s rooms will be below, you’ll have much more privacy from others in your home. Add a bathroom and a sitting area to complete the space.
Studio Space
Let your creativity run wild in a renovated attic studio space. You can create a special space for creative pursuits, such as painting, crafting or sewing. An attic without windows could even potentially be a photography darkroom. Whatever your passion is, you can use your new space to explore your ideas.
Though a renovated attic may be unconventional, it can become a great addition to your home if you design a space unique to your functional needs, aesthetic preferences and personal interests.