How to Make an Attic into a Bedroom 101
Is your family growing, and are you running out of bedrooms in your house? If so, you should consider converting your attic into a sleeping room.
This can be a great way to add more space to your home without going through the hassle of moving.
In this article, we’ll discuss some of the basics to help you convert your attic into an extra bedroom.
Table of Contents
Get Professional Advice
If you’re not sure who to contact, your local building department should be able to point you in the right direction. You may choose to contact a local architect or interior designer.
They’ll be able to determine whether your attic space is suitable for conversion.
If it is, they can help you with the planning and space design.
They can also recommend any necessary precautions or safety measures you should take.
If you live in the state of Texas, you can check out Top Notch Roofing. Top-Notch Roofing is a specialist company that deals with new home roofing and replacement.
You can see from their link that people seek professional help with everything from roof repair, replacement, and inspections to keeping pests out.
This is important for folks who also want assistance with upgrading ventilation, fixing gutters and downspouts, and saving energy.
Consider The Legal Aspects
Before you start any construction project, it’s important to consult your local building codes.
This is especially true when working on an attic space, as there are often specific regulations in place regarding headroom, egress windows, and other safety concerns.
Regarding insurance, most policies will cover any work you do to your attic space as long as it’s up to code.
However, double-checking with your insurance agent beforehand is always a good idea.
Check The Insulation
If your current insulation is insufficient, you’ll need to add more.
This will help keep the room cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.
In turn, this will make sleeping more comfortable all year round.
It will also make the area more energy-efficient, saving you money on your energy bills.
Fiberglass insulation is made from recycled glass and is the most common (and cheapest) type.
Cellulose is made from recycled paper products and is more effective at insulation, although it’s more expensive.
If you’re unsure which type to get, ask a professional for help.
Think About Ventilation
In the winter, heat rises and can become trapped in your attic space.
Creating ventilation will allow that heat to escape, saving you money on your utility bills.
Ventilation also prevents moisture from getting trapped in your attic space.
Moisture can lead to mold and mildew growth, causing health problems.
Creating ventilation will allow any moisture to dry out quickly before any mold or mildew develops.
One way to create ventilation is to install a gable fan.
This will pull air out of the space and allow fresh air to enter. Another option is to install soffit vents.
They’re installed at the bottom of your attic space, allowing fresh air to enter while pulling hot air out.
The last option is to install a ridge vent.
This is installed at the peak of your roof, and it allows hot air to escape through the top of the space.
Whichever option you choose, be sure to consult with a professional to ensure it’s installed correctly.
Add A New Window
Natural light is important for any room in your house, but it’s especially important for attics because they’re often dark and cramped.
Adding a new window will help brighten up the space and make it more inviting.
Ventilation is also important for attics because they can get very hot in the summer months.
By adding a new window, you’ll be able to open it up and let some fresh air in.
Firstly, you’ll need to decide where you want the window to go.
Second, you’ll need to make sure that the window is properly sealed and insulated.
And third, you may need to get a permit from your local building department.
Consider Storage Space
If your attic is well-insulated, you can use your attic space for storage without worrying about the temperature or humidity damaging your belongings.
First of all, think about what you’ll be storing in the space.
If you’re planning on using it for holiday decorations or seasonal clothing, you’ll want to make sure that everything is easily accessible and well-organized.
Second, consider how much space you have to work with.
If your attic is on the smaller side, you may want to invest in some creative storage solutions like hanging shelves or installing built-ins.
When attic spaces are left undisturbed for long periods of time, they can become breeding grounds for rodents and other critters.
If you’re going to be storing any food items in your attic, be sure to keep them in airtight containers. If you notice any signs of pests, call an exterminator immediately.
Think About Decoration
Attic bedroom ideas are numerous, but the key is to keep the space airy, light and bright.
White walls will reflect any natural light coming in from windows and skylights, making the space feel larger.
If you have slanted ceilings, paint them white as well to help elongate the room.
Consider adding some greenery to infuse life into the space and bring in a pop of color.
When it comes to furniture, stick with clean-lined pieces that won’t make the room feel restricted.
A daybed or trundle bed is perfect for an attic bedroom since it can be used as both a seating area and a place to sleep.
Add some cozy blankets and pillows to make it feel like a true retreat.
Finally, string some fairy lights around the room to give it a magical touch.
Finally!
With these tips, you’ll be able to transform your attic space into a cozy sleeping nook in no time.
Once you’ve done your research and spoken to the right people, you’ll be all set to begin the project.
In time you’ll have a new sleeping room for your family that will be enjoyed for many years, and you’ll have added value to your home in the process.
