OVERVIEW

Attic conversions can be tricky business. The process makes a lot of sense. For homeowners, the return on their investment is usually better with attic conversions than it is with basement conversions. Remodeling an attic to accommodate living space requires a lot of thought and planning. The process can be reasonably simple or extremely complicated. Don't think for a moment that this type of work is simple or easy.

Many factors come into play during an attic conversion. The degree of complexity depends largely on existing conditions and the intended changes. Here are just some of the things you must think about:

• Will the attic floor support the weight requirements of the conversion?

• How will natural light be provided to the attic?

• What means of ingress will you create?

• Will the roof slope allow a ceiling height that will comply with code requirements?

• What are the risks of damaging living space below when remodeling the attic?

• Will the attic require plumbing?

• Can the existing electrical service support the new circuits required?

• How will the attic space be heated or cooled?

• Do existing stairs provide suitable access or will new stairs be needed?

The above list is only a portion of what you will have to consider when asked to convert an attic to living space. If there are existing stairs, suitable framing, and no need for plumbing, the conversion of an attic can go pretty smoothly. More often than not, you will encounter many problems during the remodeling of...