Is attic space usable?
Is attic space usable?
When converting an attic to a living space, it must meet the same building requirements as the other rooms in your home. To meet most building codes your attic should: Have at least 7 feet of vertical clearance in the majority of the room, be a minimum of 7 feet wide and have at least 70 square feet of space available.
Can attic be converted to living space?
Chances are, your attic is composed of 2×4 rafters and floor joists. Once you convert attic space into living space you need to bring it up to the standards of modern building codes. That means, you’ll need 2×10 floor joists (or maybe 2×8 in rare circumstances), and, at least, 2×12 roof rafters.
What is the minimum size of an attic access?
22 by 30 inches
Minimum Opening Size The 2012 International Residential Code requires an attic access opening for attics with an area greater than 30 square feet and a vertical height in excess of 30 inches. The rough framed opening must measure a minimum of 22 by 30 inches.
How do you know if attic can be converted?
Roof Rafters or Trusses Another factor that determines whether you can convert your attic is the presence of roof rafters vs. roof trusses. Traditional rafters look like triangles; trusses look like triangles with smaller triangles inside of them—the boards forming these small triangles are called chords and webs.
Is an attic conversion worth it?
An attic conversion can be one of the most cost effective ways to add space to your home. An attic conversion will not only create extra living space within your home and potentially avoid you having to extend into the garden, but it also increases your home’s value, making it a smart investment.
Are attic openings standard size?
Standard openings are 22.5” x 54”, but some homes have wider openings. Conversely, some homes have smaller openings (or hatches). It’s important to understand the opening size you have or will create to ensure you select the correct attic ladder product for your home.
Is it better to finish basement or attic?
If you’re in the market for a new home, it may be a better choice to purchase one with a basement over an attic, because basement renovations have less structural limitations. However, pros and cons aside, it all comes down to what space you have or what space you can afford.
What qualifies as a finished attic?
Every attic is different, but a few established norms and practices will guide your renovation. Follow the “rule of 7s”: Enforcement varies, but codes typically say that at least half of a finished attic must be at least 7 feet high, and that this area must be a minimum of 7 feet wide and 70 square feet.