A finished attic adds living space to your home, whether you use it as an additional bedroom or home office. This project requires building expertise and an understanding of local regulations. Here’s what to consider as you make plans with your remodeling contractor.

What to Think About Before Finishing an Attic

1. Insulation

Insulating your attic with blown-in cellulose, mineral wool, or fiberglass promotes efficiency by preventing heat loss. It also prevents ice dams when hot attic air melts snow that refreezes along the roof edge, adding weight and contributing to leaks.

Discuss insulating the floor first with your remodeling contractor since it’s the easiest and most affordable option, especially if it’s an open frame without a plywood cover. You can also insulate the rafters before finishing the attic walls.

2. Code Compliance

Ensure building code compliance with your municipality or county, and learn whether you need a permit. If you plan to add electrical wiring, install ventilation, or knock down a wall, a permit is generally required.

International Residential Code (IRC) standards also require building a “habitable room” at least 70 square feet with a ceiling height of at least 7 feet. Since attics often have sloped ceilings, 50% percent of the room does not need a ceiling height of 7 feet.

3. Heating & Cooling

Determine if your current HVAC system has the power to heat and cool your attic. If an HVAC inspection reveals that the system is below capacity, consider replacing it with a larger, more efficient model if the attic is for daily living.

Otherwise, you can use portable heaters and window air conditioners to maintain a comfortable space. Installing a ceiling fan may be another option.

4. Natural Light & Ventilation

Request window installation from your remodeling contractor to create an airy space and improve habitability. Attics must have enough window space to cover at least 8% of the total floor area with natural light to remain code-compliant.

They must also feature emergency escape and rescue openings, such as egress doors or windows. Windows additionally provide ventilation sources.

Finish your attic with services from Mallo Home Improvements. Serving Rochester, NY, and the surrounding areas since 1957, this family-owned home remodeling company specializes in quality craftsmanship using top-quality products and offers one-year warranties. Call (585) 654-9530 to request a free estimate, or visit them online to learn more about their services.