Attic Remodeling - What You Need to Know

The latest nationwide figures published in the 2009 Remodeling Magazine Cost vs. Value report provides a little insight for homeowners into which remodeling projects provide the best return on average.

The big surprise for many last year was just how popular attic additions and remodels had become and just how much of a great investment they could represent. 1n 2008/2009 the average attic remodel scored a 83.1% cost recoup rate. As a comparison, kitchen remodeling was found to have a recoup rate of 57.9% of the investment with bathrooms just beating that with 61.6%.

With that in mind, if you are looking to add extra functional space attic conversions can be a great way to do just that. There are a number of things to consider before you commission the project and hire a contractor though.

The first thing you need to determine is what exactly you want to use the space for. Do you want it to be a master bedroom, a guest bedroom, a kids playroom, a cozy library, or a home office? Quite often these spaces make for a unique loft that you can use as a multimedia entertainment area or game room. In fact, if you think about the attic space in the same way as you would a basement, even more new ideas might begin to pop up - a pool table, a wet bar, or even a small apartment for an adult child returning to the nest, which is quite a common occurrence these days.

Once you have decided what you want to use the attic for it is time to call in some contractors to walk the space with you and help figure out what is and is not possible and, of course, what it all might cost.

There can often be obstacles to overcome when converting an attic that do not arise during a basement remodel. For example, the pitch of the roof may present problems, extra windows or skylights have to be added and how the attic is space is eventually going to be accessed is a big part of the planning process as well.

The contractor you pick (see Hiring a Residential Contractor for info on that) should also pay attention to making sure that the finished space is up to code and will pass a building inspection. There are a number of specific building codes that apply to attics but a good remodeling contractor will be aware of them all and how to meet them effectively.

Once all the details are ironed out and the work finally begins, attic conversions are a fun and unique way to add useful, livable square footage to your home, as well as provide a good return on all the money you invested if and when you decide to move on.

Ursula K Rose - Renovation Experts USA
You can find lots of helpful information about finding a suitable home renovation contractor at Renovation Experts and read our home Renovation with Renovation Experts Blog, which is updated several times a week with helpful home renovation articles.