How Do You Build In An Attic Space

The previous homeowner may have simply covered the joists with plywood to use the space for storage.

How do you build in an attic space.

Then you ll need to build a grid like structure that can hold up the plywood flooring. If your attic joists won t bear the weight necessary to finish out a living space but the engineer cleared them to support floor decking for light storage you can install inch plywood or. Have risers that are at least 7 1 4 high. Have treads of at least 10 deep.

Once you convert attic space into living space you need to bring it up to the standards of modern building codes. The best way to accomplish this is to have an inspection done by a contractor so that you can learn exactly what you need. Consult your local building code or a. Alternatively your attic may already have some sort of floor but this doesn t necessarily mean you can build rooms.

Measure the clearance and estimate the square footage of your attic. The missing piece of information is those miserable little beasts called the building and energy codes. Be at least 36 wide. You probably don t have a permanent staircase leading to your unfinished attic space but you will need one.

They ll most likely have to be moved to open up the space. Before you start creating a floor for your attic you must make sure that it can handle the additional load. At least 50 percent of the attic space must have 7 foot 2 1 m clearance. Check that converting your attic is actually feasible.

This is often cheaper than building a new wardrobe yet you have access to a whole lot more space. Do not be tempted to diy any building project you will be breaking the law and it could put you and your family at risk. Provide a minimum of 6 8 of headroom the entire walking length of the stairs. If it satisfies this and the following criteria in this section you re good go get started in finishing the project.

That s something you can do yourself as long as you follow the building codes for pipe and duct size slope and insulation. In the case of a rental unit you may build a staircase on the outside of the house if desired. Chances are you ve got plumbing and bath fan vents running through your attic. To convert your attic to living space you cannot provide access via a ladder.

Building codes will not allow a permanent living area without a permanent stairs leading to it. Attics with existing flooring. That means you ll need 2x10 floor joists or maybe 2x8 in rare circumstances and at least 2x12 roof rafters.