If you are looking for a way to add square footage to your home without building an addition onto your residence, your attic may be the perfect place to do it. Your attic is often a space that is full of items just collecting dust; so why not convert the space into a living area and add another bedroom onto your home? Future Vision Remodeling is here to talk about converting an attic into a bedroom to add living space to your home without the work of an addition.
Converting Your Attic into a Bedroom is Cost Efficient
When you are trying to find the most cost effective way to add space to your home without breaking the bank, and giving you the most home value, a bedroom and small bath in the attic is often your best option. Before you start the process of converting your attic into a bedroom and small bathroom, you need to make sure it’s even a possibility. Check the following things before starting the process:
-Building Codes
-Support Structures
-Electrical, HVAC & Plumbing Systems
-Access
Building Access, Stair & Other Codes to Convert Attic to Living Space
Following building codes when converting your attic into a living space is going to ensure your family and loved ones are kept safe. Here are the many building codes to be aware of:
• Ceiling Codes– You must have a ceiling of 7 feet 6 inches tall and it must span at least 70 square feet in order to meet ceiling code requirements.
• Joist Codes– With a contracted professional, you need to make sure your floor joists can handle the weight of a remodel. You need to know if your rafters can support drywall, lighting, HVAC and plumbing components involved in the remodeling process.
• Egress Codes– To ensure your attic is safe once converted to a bedroom, it should have a window as well as a staircase to the lower level. For an even safer space, an emergency exit ladder is a great addition as well.
Building a Staircase to Attic is a Must
If you are thinking that a ladder will be enough to gain access to and from your attic, you would be wrong. You must have an actual staircase that leads to the attic in order to make a bedroom and small bathroom a possibility. You need to evaluate your home and find an area that you would be able to construct a staircase in. They usually take up at least 40 square feet in the lower level. If you choose a spiral staircase, it takes up less space, but usually costs more money to install. They can be more difficult to go up and down as well.
Attic Remodeling Design, Construction & More in Tarzana, Calabasas, Beverly Hills, Rancho Palos Verdes, San Marino, Pacific Palisades, La Canada Flintridge, Bel-Air & Greater Los Angeles, California
Before you start the process of converting your attic into a bedroom, you should meet with the building professionals at Future Vision Remodeling. We can walk you through the process and help you determine whether or not this is a valid option for your home. Call us today!
