New Found Space

There are many great reasons for attic remodeling. Whether it be remodeling to make it an extra bedroom or make more usable space in your home, Levco Remodeling will take care of you.

Attic remodeling is a great and cost effective way to extend to create extra space as you don’t have the expense of a roof, exterior walls or foundation that would be incurred with a traditional addition or second story.

The Easy 5 Step Check

At the beginning stages of your attic remodeling, you can do a few easy inspections to determine if your attic is suitable for a successful remodel. Having this information on hand can also make it easier to ask the right questions when preparing for a project.

Ceiling Height

In order to meet the building codes, 50 percent of the finished floor space must have a ceiling height of at least 6 foot 8 inches. This 50 percent must be at least 70 square feet. If the ceiling height is too low and it has trusses, you may only be able to use the space for storage rather than livable space. Discuss the possibility of adding dormers to the attic to increase the ceiling height rather than rebuilding the roof. Consider stair location, if your attic only has a drop-down staircase or hatch access.

Roof Type

Decide how you will work with the slope of the roof — This is an important aspect of planning, and it will affect your cost and the appearance and functionality of the new room. Do you want a pitched or a cathedral ceiling? Will you construct it? How will you install adequate insulation?

Stain inspection

Look around for possible water stain on the ceilings, as this could be signs of a roof leak. If you happen to find some, this will need to be eliminated at the first stages of the attic remodel.

Lighting

When considering your attic remodeling project, you need to estimate costs of lighting. Skylights are a great way to bring in natural light to make the room more welcoming and open. With electric lights, the cost of wiring and installation needs to be considered as well.

Ventilation

Finished New Attic

Keep in mind that heat rises. Attics can become very warm. You’ll need to plan for adequate ventilation and insulation for the attic remodeling to keep the room comfortable without drastically increasing your heating and cooling costs. We have used Mini-Split Systems, whole house fans and other techniques to alleviate the problems associated with living upstairs.

If you’re in the Boise, ID or sounding area and planning to finish or remodel your attic into living space, careful planning and attention to the unique challenges presented by the space will be essential. You can expect to gain valuable living space as well as some increase in the value of your home.

Your comments are welcome. To ask questions or get more information about remodeling, email me directly or visit our contact page.