There are many options available for attic finishing depending on how big your attic is. Many attics have balconies that can be used as extra living space. A loft-style bedroom, or office can be created. A staircase can be added to your attic to add a second or additional bathroom. Apart from increasing usable space, attic finishing can also provide a beautiful outdoor space to entertain guests. 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 horizontal framing members for your attic floor are called joists. These joists are made from 2-x12 lumber which is 1-1/2 inch thick. You'll need to build a ceiling and install a floor if you plan to finish the attic. Install load-bearing partitions in order to put in a floor.
You'll need a few things before you can start attic finishing. You must first decide what the purpose of the room is. If it's a nursery, for example, you might choose a bright color scheme. A guest room, however, should be neutral and calm. You can choose furniture that makes the space feel warm and inviting without making it overwhelming for guests. However, you must consider the location of the room and its intended use.
Once you've determined the area you want to convert you can start the design process. You should also consider a roof deck or stairway access. Once you have completed these steps you can prepare the space to be used. If you have specific requirements, you might consider installing a dormer or skylight. Make sure you follow all code requirements. The code requires a minimum of eight square feet of window area for sleeping rooms. The sill must be at least four feet in height and windows should have a sunny roof.
Once the attic floor has been completed, it is time to hang drywall. Before installing a ceiling, you should consider the location of existing furniture. This is an important part in attic finishing. Besides the ceiling, you should also consider the framework of your house. A typical attic has 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.
A chandelier can also make your attic more accessible. A chandelier is a great way of adding extra lighting to your attic and creating a focal point. 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 give your attic more space, you can also install an overhead door.
FAQ
How do you choose a good contractor to work with?
Ask family and friends for referrals when looking for a contractor. Online reviews are also a good option. It is important to confirm that the contractor that you choose has worked in the same area as you. Ask for references and check them out.
You can live in a house while it is being renovated.
Yes, I can live inside a house while I renovate it.
Is it possible to live in a house with renovations going on? The duration of the construction works will affect the answer. If the renovation lasts less then two months, then it is possible to live in your home while it is being constructed. You cannot live in your house while the renovation process is ongoing if it lasts more than two years.
It is important that you do not live in your home during major construction. You could also suffer from noise pollution and dust caused by the heavy machinery used on the job site.
This is especially true if your house has multiple stories. If this happens, the sound and vibration caused by the construction workers can cause significant damage to your home and contents.
As mentioned earlier, you will also have to deal with the inconvenience of living in a temporary shelter while your home is being renovated. This means that you won't have access to all the amenities that come with your own home.
When your dryer and washing machine are in repair, for example, you won't have access to them. Additionally, the smell of paint fumes or other chemicals will be a constant annoyance as well as the banging sound made by workers.
These factors can cause stress and anxiety in you and your family. It is therefore important to plan ahead so that you don't end up feeling overwhelmed by the situation.
To avoid costly mistakes, do your homework before you make any decisions about renovating your home.
You can also consider professional advice from a trusted contractor to ensure smooth running of your project.
What is the average time it takes to renovate a house?
It depends on the size of the project and the amount of time that you spend each day. The average homeowner works on the project for three to six hour a week.
Statistics
- The average fixed rate for a home-equity loan was recently 5.27%, and the average variable rate for a HELOC was 5.49%, according to Bankrate.com. (kiplinger.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)
- They'll usually lend up to 90% of your home's "as-completed" value, but no more than $424,100 in most locales or $636,150 in high-cost areas. (kiplinger.com)
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How To
How much money should I spend restoring my old house?
The cost of renovating a home depends on how many rooms it is, what kind of renovations, where it is located, and whether the work will be done by professionals or you. Depending upon the size of the renovation, the average cost ranges between $10,000 and $50,000.
If you intend to sell your home soon after the renovation, the price you receive will be less than what the market value. You might even lose money if you put too little effort into making your home look its best before selling. On the other side, if your home is in a good condition, you can get more money if you put in the effort.
These are some factors that will help you determine which projects you should start:
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Your budget. Begin small if your budget is limited. For example, you can tackle one room at a time, such as painting walls or replacing flooring. For major renovations, you can either hire a contractor who specializes on kitchen remodeling or save money.
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Priorities. You decide what you are going to do with your home. You should not limit your efforts to one problem. Even minor problems can quickly add up. You might have to replace your roof sooner than you thought if it leaks each time it rains.
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Your timeline. If you're thinking about buying another property soon, you might want to prioritize those projects that won't affect the resale value of your current home. For example, if you're looking to buy a new place next year, you probably wouldn't want to install hardwood floors or replace your bathroom fixtures right away. You might consider waiting until you sell your current home before making these updates.
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Your skills. You might not have the skills to complete a project. You might hire a cabinet maker if you don't have the skills to build custom cabinets.