Utilizing available space in your home is one of the primary objectives of a home remodeling project. This is especially true when you’re working in a restricted space or living in a home with a large number of people. If you’re looking to include an additional accommodation area such as an extra bedroom for guests or other members of the household, focusing on the attic is a good place to start. This section of the house is generally used as a storage space in many residences, but so much more can be achieved with the right approach.
One of the popular alternatives available with an attic transformation project is converting this space into an additional bedroom. Some crucial aspects to consider when undertaking this Home Remodeling Newton MA project include:
Installing a Subfloor
The first step of the transformation involves strengthening the floor as they don’t tend to feature the same levels of stability as normal rooms. This is accomplished by adding a subfloor. It’s crucial to apply for the necessary permits from your local building authorities before any work commences. Once the necessary licenses have been acquired, the next step involves laying the plywood sheet on the attic joists. The longest side of the sheet should be positioned perpendicularly to the attic joists and leave a ¼ inch of space between the plywood and the attic wall. Once the sheet is positioned, two ½ inch screws should be drilled into the floor joists 6 to 8 inches apart. Repeat this process with two more plywood sheets. Lastly, a floor-patching compound should be applied and sanded down once it dries.
Integrating HVAC Solutions
The attic tends to be one of the coldest parts of a house and the air can get a bit musty over time, especially when the area has been closed off for an extended period. An effective means of improving the heat retention of this space is by adding extra insulation on the roof. You will also need to include an additional HVAC system to the room as the insulation placed along the attic floors means this section is usually closed-off from the heating and ventilation system that services the rest of the house. If your existing HVAC is big enough to accommodate the attic, you can install additional ductwork in this area to incorporate the attic into the system. This alternative, however, might prove more expensive than simply installing a separate ductless system.
Upgrading Electrical Provisions
In most cases, an attic will feature a single bulb for lighting and one electrical outlet if any at all. As such, you might need to install more ports and add to the wiring to accommodate the electrical needs of the new living space. It should be noted that your wiring system will likely require Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI) with the presence of an independent HVAC system. Any additional amenities including mini-fridges will also require this safety precaution. Hiring a professional is recommendable when dealing with electricity to ensure safety levels with your wiring solutions. These professionals will also have a better chance of adhering to any related building codes.
If you’re thinking about turning your attic into an extra bedroom, call us today! Exponential construction, your preferred contractor!
