In our area, we’re fortunate that we often have an attic space that allows us to walk around and store lots of things. Because of this, when you need more space in your home and your property or budget doesn’t allow for a traditional home addition, consider finishing your attic. This space can provide not only space to live and play, but also additional heated and cooled storage.
Many Options for One Space
Because an attic is upstairs, many people think of it as a space for an additional bedroom. Although that is a great option, it’s not the only one. Some of the remodeling projects we’ve completed in the attic include:
- Home office
- Man cave
- Craft/sewing room
- Homeschool room
- Playroom
- Workout space
Of course, depending on the size of your attic and your budget, you may be able to create more than one room. This is also the time to think about your storage needs. Are you looking for heated and cooled storage? If you install a knee wall, have the remodeler finish it for storage. Wonder what to do with the front? If you need bookshelves for your book collection, it can provide excellent shelving space for books, games and toys.
Things to Understand Before Finishing Your Attic
It’s not as easy as putting up drywall and painting. Although your attic may have a floor, chances are high that it’s not a floor intended to support people and furniture. It’s meant for storage. You will likely need some additional support and materials for the floors. The walls may also be quite low. You will need to decide if you want to raise the roof on one or both sides to increase the ceiling height or if you can add a few dormers and get the living space you want.
Your new space is just like a home addition. That means your current HVAC system may not be able to handle the additional square footage. If that’s the case, you have two options: replace your existing units with a new larger one or have your remodeling company include a ductless system to heat and cool the room. Make this decision early so your remodeling company can work with the electrician on your electrical plan.
Other Considerations
Most people think about the attic over the main portion of the home. This is one option; however, you may also have an attic over your garage. You can finish both and connect the spaces or one or the other. Keep in mind, you will need a way to get to this new living space. If your home currently has pull-down stairs, you’ll have a bit more remodeling to do in the main part of the home to make room for the stairway.
G.M. Roth Is Your Space Solution Company
We’ll help you evaluate the space you have in your home and help you decide if a traditional home addition, attic or basement finishing, or a whole-home remodel is the best option for your needs and budget. Call us today at 603-421-6631 for your free consultation. We are licensed and insured in both New Hampshire and Massachusetts, and service the areas within an hour of our Nashua showroom and office.