Is Your Attic a Good Candidate for a Conversion?

Do you want more living space in your home but don’t want to build an addition? Then consider converting your attic. Attics are a good choice for conversion because they are dry, quiet and have plenty of available space. However, before you start this home remodeling project, you’ll need to determine if your attic is a good candidate for conversion. DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Southern Lakes, one of the top remodeling contractors in Kenosha, WI, explains what you need to know.

Stairs

Most attics are designed for storage, so they are usually accessed through pull-down stairs or another opening. If you plan to convert your attic, then you need to design and build safe stairs. Building codes generally stipulate that stairways must be at least 36 inches wide with treads that are 9.5 inches deep. The maximum rise from one tread to the next should be 7¾ inches and head clearance has to meet or exceed 80 inches.

Load Capacity

Building code requires that your attic have a load capacity of 30 pounds per square foot, therefore you will need to get a professional to inspect the framing of your house. Your attic needs to meet the requirements when it comes to the width and depth of the joists, the amount of spacing between the joists, what species of lumber the joists are made of and their span. Ultimately, this ensures the attic and the overall structure can support the additional weight of occupants and furnishings.

Usable Area, Windows & Height Requirements

To satisfy building code, your attic should have enough space to meet the following requirements.

Your attic needs to have at least 70 square feet of usable floor area. This area needs to have a ceiling height of at least five feet. It also needs a minimum amount of window area. This area should be at least 8% of the usable floor area. There is also an openable area requirement of at least 4% of the usable floor area. In addition, at least 50% of the usable floor area needs to have a ceiling height of at least seven feet.

DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Southern Lakes can help you with all of your home remodeling needs. We’re the company to call if you need a bathroom remodel in Kenosha, WI, or any other remodeling project. We have a proven reputation for ethical excellence, outstanding workmanship and great customer service. Call us at (262) 923-8721 to learn more about our services and products, or to schedule a consultation.

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