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Learn All About Attic Conversion

If you want to expand the living space in your home, an attic conversion may be the perfect project for you. Depending on the space available, your attic can be converted into many different things.

attic conversion

Adding an extra room can instantly boost your home’s value as well. There are a lot of things you need to consider when deciding to transform your attic. We’ll go over the main factors of attic conversions and some examples of what you can do with the space.

Does Your Attic Fit the Requirements?

When you take on an attic conversion project, you’ll need to make sure the area is up to code. We’ll go over the main focus points you should pay attention to below.

However, you should discuss with your contractor, designer or local building official to make sure your attic meets all requirements.

Overall Area

Your attic must follow the same requirements as the rest of the rooms in your house. That being said, your attic must have at least 70 square feet where the ceiling is at least 5 feet high.

The ceiling height must be at least 7 feet high in 50% of the usable area. So, if your attic has 100 square feet of at least 5 foot high ceilings, you would need 50 square feet to be at least 7 feet high.

Windows and Openings

In order to pass code, your attic must have at least 8% of the overall area be windows. 4% of the overall area must contain operable windows that allow access to outside.

You’ll need to make sure your attic windows are working and performing the way they should. If you plan on converting your attic into a space where people will spend a significant amount of time, it’s imperative to have good looking, energy efficient windows.

For the best windows in the Midwest, look no further than Feldco. Your attic conversion won’t be complete without strong and durable vinyl windows.

Windows from Feldco are made with argon gas-filled glass and foam insulated frames to make sure you stay comfortable inside year round. Get a free quote now for your attic windows!

Heating and Cooling

Another important code to follow is that your attic must be able to maintain a temperature of 68 degrees Fahrenheit. For most homeowners, this usually isn’t a difficult requirement because of their existing heating and cooling systems.

When it all comes down to the final decision of whether or not your attic qualifies to be a suitable living space, you should consult your local building official to make sure everything is up to code.

Safety should be the first priority in taking on an attic conversion project.

Attic Conversion Ideas

Now comes the time to decide what you’ll actually convert your attic into. Depending on the amount of work you’re willing to put in, your options vary. Some projects can be fairly simple while others can prove to be much more complex.

Let’s take a look at some of the more common attic conversion ideas below.

Bedroom Conversion

attic bedroom

The most common attic conversion is creating an extra bedroom. This option is relatively inexpensive and adding another bedroom to your house definitely boosts its value.

A smaller attic can be the perfect room for younger children. They won’t have to worry about moving around under the sloped ceilings that most attics have.

Converting an attic into a bedroom for older kids, such as teens, is also a great idea. It’ll give them a little more privacy and create the feeling of independence for them.

When the kids grow up or move out, you can use the bedroom as a guest room or convert it into a home office.

Recreation Room Conversion

attic game room

If you decide to go the rec room route, the options are almost endless. Converting your attic into a mini-gym is perfect if you don’t have a lot of space to work with.

Just be sure that your attic floor is strong enough to hold the extra weight if you decide to put a treadmill or weight set in there.

Another rec room idea would be to convert your attic into a game room. Some inspiration for game rooms can be found here.

Home Theater Attic Conversion

attic theater conversion

Due to the odd shape of most attics, it can be hard to convert the room for a conventional use. A great way to expand the living space of your home is to convert it into a home theater.

You can soundproof your attic through insulation and thick carpeting with a foam pad. The cozy feeling is perfect for a movie night or sleepover.

Walk-In Closet Conversion

The addition of a walk-in closet is a huge positive for any home’s value. This attic conversion is simple and cheap.

All you need to do is setup up some hanging storage units, shelving, drawers and any other storage ideas you have in mind.

Attic Conversions Are a Great Value Booster

The search for additional living space in the home is an on-going process for a lot of homeowners. Converting your attic into something usable is a fantastic way to maximize your home’s design and functionality.

Just be sure that your attic is up to code for a proper living space and the conversion ideas are all up to you. Whether you use the space for another bedroom or go all out and create the ultimate game room, an attic conversion can make your home feel totally different.

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