There are many options to finish your attic depending on its size. Many attics come with balconies that can double as living spaces. A loft-style bedroom or an office is another option. You can even add a second or third bathroom by building a staircase to the attic. Aside from adding usable space, attic finishing also gives you a beautiful outdoor space for entertaining. Here are some tips to maximize the space in your attic.
Before starting your attic finishing project, you'll want to check that your attic is ready to receive new floor materials. Your attic floor's horizontal framing members are the joists. These joists are made of 2x12 lumber, which is 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 in order to put in a floor.
Before you can begin attic finishing, you'll need some basic items. You must first decide what the purpose of the room is. For example, if it's a nursery, you can choose a funky color scheme, while a guest room should be white and relaxing. It is possible to choose furniture that feels warm and inviting, but not overwhelming guests. However, you must consider the location of the room and its intended use.
Once you have determined which space you want, you are able to move on with the design. 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 can install skylights and dormer windows for those with special needs. Follow the code requirements. The code requires a minimum of eight square feet of window area for sleeping rooms. The sill should not rise above four feet, and windows should face a sunny roof.
You can now hang drywall after the attic floor is completed. Be sure to consider where your furniture is before installing a ceiling. This is an essential part of the attic remodeling process. Besides the ceiling, you should also consider the framework of your house. Attics generally have an A or a W-shaped roof truss. A W-shaped truss is not suitable for attic finishing, and if you do, then you need to consider installing a drop ceiling or a thermal barrier.
A chandelier is another great way to make your attic easier to use. It's a great way to add extra lighting and a focal point to your attic. You can also add a chandelier to the design. There are many other ideas for attic finishing. These are just a few of the many options available to decorate your attic. To give your attic more space, you can also install an overhead door.
FAQ
What room should first be renovated?
The heart of any house is the kitchen. It is where you spend most time, whether it be cooking, entertaining or relaxing. You can make your kitchen more functional and appealing by using these tips!
It is also an important component of any home. It offers privacy and comfort for daily chores such as washing your hair, brushing your teeth, shaving, or getting ready to go to bed. Consider adding storage to these rooms and installing a tub instead of a bathtub. You may also want to replace old fixtures with modern ones.
How many times do I need to change my furnace filter?
How often your family expects to use the heating system in their home will determine the answer. You may need to change your filter more frequently if the temperature drops and you plan on being away from home during colder months. However, if you rarely go out of the house, you may be able to wait longer between changes.
A furnace filter typically lasts for three months. This means that you should replace your filters every three months.
For information on when to replace your filter, you can consult the manufacturer. Some manufacturers suggest changing your filter every heating season. Others recommend waiting until you see dirt buildup.
Can I rent a dumpster?
Yes, you can rent a dumpster to help you dispose of debris after completing your home renovation. Renting a dumpster is a great way to keep your yard free from trash and debris.
How do you choose a good contractor to work with?
Ask family and friends for referrals when looking for a contractor. Also, look at online reviews. 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.
How can I avoid being ripped off while renovating my home?
The best way to avoid being ripped off is to know what you are paying for. Before signing any contract, read through the fine print carefully. Blank contracts should not be signed. Always ask for copies of signed contracts.
How important is it that you are preapproved for a loan?
Pre-approval for a mortgage loan is essential. It will give you an estimate of the amount you will need. It can also help you determine your eligibility for a particular loan program.
Is it better to hire either a general or subcontractor?
The cost of hiring a general contractor can be higher than that of a subcontractor. General contractors often have many employees and charge clients high labor costs. A subcontractor on the other side only employs one person, so he/she charges less per-hour.
Statistics
- Most lenders will lend you up to 75% or 80% of the appraised value of your home, but some will go higher. (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)
- ‘The potential added value of a loft conversion, which could create an extra bedroom and ensuite, could be as much as 20 per cent and 15 per cent for a garage conversion.' (realhomes.com)
- On jumbo loans of more than $636,150, you'll be able to borrow up to 80% of the home's completed value. (kiplinger.com)
- 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)
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How To
How do you plan a complete home remodel?
It takes careful planning and research to plan a complete house remodel. Before you begin your project, there are many things to think about. First, you must decide what type of home improvement you want. There are many options available, including kitchen, bathroom and bedroom. Once you've decided on which category to work on you will need to calculate how much money is available for your project. If you don't have experience with working on houses, it's best to budget at minimum $5,000 per room. You might be able get away with less if you have previous experience.
After you have determined how much money you have available, you can decide how big of a project you would like to undertake. A small kitchen remodel will not allow you to install new flooring, paint the walls, or replace countertops. However, if enough money is available to complete a kitchen renovation, you should be able handle most things.
Next, look for a contractor with experience in the type or project you are looking to tackle. This will ensure you get quality results and save you a lot of hassle later. You should begin gathering materials and supplies after you've found a competent contractor. Depending on the project's size, you may have to buy all of the materials from scratch. You shouldn't have any trouble finding the right item in pre-made stores.
Once you've collected all the materials you will need, you can begin to plan. You will first need to sketch out an outline of the areas you plan to place appliances and furniture. The next step is to design the layout of the rooms. Make sure that you leave space for plumbing and electrical outlets. Make sure to position the most visited areas close to the front door. Visitors can also easily access them. You can finish your design by choosing colors and finishes. In order to avoid spending too much money, stick to neutral tones and simple designs.
Now that you're finished drawing up your plan, it's finally time to start building! It's important that you check the codes in your area before you start construction. Some cities require permits. Others allow homeowners to build without permits. When you're ready to begin construction, you'll first want to remove all existing floors and walls. To protect your flooring, you will lay plywood sheets. Next, you will nail or screw together pieces wood to create the frame for your cabinets. You will attach doors or windows to the frame.
You'll need to finish a few final touches once you're done. You'll likely want to cover any exposed wires and pipes. You will need to use tape and plastic sheeting for this purpose. You will also need to hang photos and mirrors. You should always keep your work area clean.
This guide will show you how to create a functional, beautiful home. It will also save you a lot of money. Now that you are familiar with how to plan a whole home remodel project, it is time to get started.