Building An Attic Room

That s measured after you finish the ceiling.

Building an attic room.

You ll need a stationary staircase not a pull down in order to meet most building codes as well as ceilings that are at least 7 feet high in more than half of the attic. Usually there isn t much sunlight in attic bedrooms so think about using light colors. In rare cases especially in new construction homes the attic may have been built unfinished with the correct flooring in place with the idea that the homeowner could later on finish the space. For example you could whitewash it.

Follow the rule of 7s. Enforcement varies but codes typically say that at least half of a finished attic must be at least 7 feet high and that this area must be a minimum of 7 feet wide and 70 square feet. Some communities will allow homeowners to do their own construction but they are still subject to. You may need to reinforce.

A contractor or a local building official can help you assess how the rule will apply to your attic and how modifications like dormers can resolve height shortcomings. In most cases though the joists cannot support live loads and may not even be covered with boards. If your attic is a playroom pile on vibrant colors to make the space bright and happy. Need more headroom in the basement.

Step 4 measure your joists. Carpet tiles are also a brilliant choice for playrooms. Here are those things you should consider when creating a bedroom of your dreams. Attic flooring intended for a living space must be installed in compliance with building codes.

If you don t have enough height you ll have to raise the roof line and that adds a lot to your construction costs. We ve got plenty of attic room ideas from guest bedrooms to extra bathrooms and even a writer s retreat. Think about the lighting. A modular sectional makes a great place to snuggle and lounge.

Turn ceiling into something beautiful. An attic room must measure 10 5 foot at the ridge line and at least 50 percent of the finished space must be 7 5 foot tall or more. Besides clever use of light fixtures is also very important. Building codes vary by location but most require at least a 7 foot clearance for attic expansions.

You also need to ensure that the joist spacing is adequate. Get inspired by 16 attic rooms to unlock this little nook s full potential. Attic joists that are made from 2x8s may be acceptable for building your attic floor but because every room is variable there are no absolutes.