There are many options to finish your attic depending on its size. Many attics also have balconies which can be used to add living space. Another option is to create a loft-style bedroom or office. A staircase to the attic can also be used to create a second or third bathroom. You can add usable space to your attic, but you also have an outdoor area for entertaining. Here are some tips to maximize the space in your attic.
Before you start your attic remodel, check to make sure that the attic is suitable for new flooring. The joists are the horizontal framing members of your attic floor. These joists come in a 2-by-12 lumber (1-1/2 inches thick). If you are finishing your attic, then you'll need to create a ceiling and put in a floor. Install load-bearing partitions when you install a new flooring.
Before you can finish your attic, there are a few things that you will need. Before you can start attic finishing, it is important to define the purpose of the space. For example, if it's a nursery, you can choose a funky color scheme, while a guest room should be white and relaxing. You can also choose furniture that will make the space feel cozy and welcoming without overwhelming guests. But, it is important to think about the place and the intended use.
Once you have decided what space you wish to convert, it is time to start designing. Consider a roof deck, stairway access and other factors. Once you've completed these steps, you can start preparing the room for the new space. You may have special needs and want to install a skylight or dormer window. You must adhere to the code. For sleeping rooms, the code requires that there be at least eight square feet of windows. The height of the sill should be four feet or lower, and the windows should be preferably on a sunny roof.
Once your attic floor is complete, you can hang the drywall. Consider the location of your existing furniture before you install a ceiling. This is an important aspect of attic finishing. Besides the ceiling, you should also consider the framework of your house. Generally, attics have a W or an A shaped truss. A W-shaped Truss is not recommended for attic finishing. You should consider installing either a drop ceiling (or a thermal barrier) if you have such a truss.
Installing a chandelier in your attic is another great way of making it more functional. It is a great addition to your attic that will provide extra lighting and serve as a focal points. You can go crazy with the design and add a chandelier. There are many other options available for attic finishing. To decorate your attic, you can use any one of these methods. To make your attic more spacious, you can install an attic door.
FAQ
How much does it take to renovate a home?
Renovations are usually between $5,000 and $50,000. Renovations can cost homeowners anywhere from $10,000 to $20,000
Do you prefer to hire a general contractor, or a subcontractor for your project?
It is more expensive to hire a general contractor than to subcontract. A general contractor has many employees, so they often charge their clients a lot of money for labor costs. Subcontractors, on the contrary, hire one employee and charge less per hour.
Do I need an architect/builder?
It might be easier to have someone else do the work if you're planning on renovating your own house. But if your goal is to buy a house, hiring an architect/builder will ensure that you get the home you desire.
How do I select a competent contractor?
Ask family and friends for referrals when looking for a contractor. Online reviews are also a good option. Make sure that the contractor you choose has experience in the area of construction that you are interested in. Get references from other people and review them.
Is it less expensive to renovate an existing house or build a new one?
Two options are available to those who want to build a home. The other option is to purchase a prebuilt home. This type of home can be moved in to immediately after it is built. You can also build your own home. This option will require you to hire a builder in order to design and build your dream house.
How much time and money it takes to design and plan a new house will affect the cost. Custom homes may take more work as you'll need to complete most of it yourself. But you still have control over the materials you choose and how they are placed. It may be easier to find a contractor who is skilled in building custom homes.
A new home is typically more expensive than one that has been renovated. That's because you'll pay more for the land and any improvements you make to the property. You will also need to pay inspections and permits. The average price difference between a new home and one that has been renovated is between $10,000 and $20,000.
What can I do to save money on my home's renovation?
You can save money by doing most of the work yourself. Consider reducing the number or people that you employ during renovations. You could also try to find ways to reduce the cost of materials used in the renovation process.
Statistics
- According to the National Association of the Remodeling Industry's 2019 remodeling impact report , realtors estimate that homeowners can recover 59% of the cost of a complete kitchen renovation if they sell their home. (bhg.com)
- Rather, allot 10% to 15% for a contingency fund to pay for unexpected construction issues. (kiplinger.com)
- A final payment of, say, 5% to 10% will be due when the space is livable and usable (your contract probably will say "substantial completion"). (kiplinger.com)
- Design-builders may ask for a down payment of up to 25% or 33% of the job cost, says the NARI. (kiplinger.com)
- Most lenders will lend you up to 75% or 80% of the appraised value of your home, but some will go higher. (kiplinger.com)
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How To
Do you prefer renovating exterior or interior?
Which should I choose first?
There are many factors you need to consider when choosing which project you want to work on. The most common factor when choosing a project is whether it is old or newly built. It is important to assess the condition of the roof and windows as well as the doors, flooring, and electrical system. The location, style, number of rooms and size of a new building are all important aspects.
The roof is the most important thing to inspect if the building is older. If the roof looks like it could fall apart any day now, then you might want to get started on the renovation before anything else. The roof should be in good shape before you move on to the next stage. Next, inspect the windows. If they are broken or dirty, then you might want them replaced before doing much else. You can then go through your doors and clean them. Once everything is clean, you can then begin to put the floors together. Be sure to ensure that the flooring is stable and strong so that you can walk on it without slipping. Now you can start to add the walls. Examine the walls carefully to determine if there are any cracks or other damage. If the wall is in good condition, you can move on to the next step. The ceiling can be finished after the walls have been examined. Check the ceiling and make sure that it is strong enough to hold up whatever weight you decide to put on it. Once everything is in order, you can proceed with your renovation.
If the building was newly built, you'd probably start with its exterior. Start by looking at the outside. Is it clean? Are there cracks around? Is it in good condition? If your exterior isn't looking great, you should make some changes. Your home shouldn't look shabby. Next, make sure to check the foundation. The foundation should be inspected for weakness and repaired. Also, make sure to inspect the driveway. You want it to be smooth and flat. If it's not, then you should fix it. You should also inspect the sidewalk while you're checking your driveway. If the sidewalk is uneven, it should be replaced.
Once you have completed these inspections, you can now move on inside the house. First, take a look at the kitchen. Is the kitchen clean and well maintained? It should be cleaned up if it's messy. Next, you should inspect the appliances. You want them to be in good order and working correctly. If they're not, you can either replace them or repair them. Check the cabinets after this. Paint them if they're stained or scratched. You can then move on to the bathroom if they are in good condition. In here, you should check the toilet. If it leaks, it is time to get a new one. If the item is only dirty, you can wash it. Next, examine all the fixtures. Make sure that they are clean. If they are dirty, then you should definitely clean them. The countertops should be inspected as well. They should be repainted if they are chipped or cracked. If they are smooth and shiny you can use a sealant.
The final step is to inspect the furniture. Verify that everything is in good condition. If it's missing or damaged, you need to find it. You should fix anything broken. Once everything is in order, you can then move on to the next step.