The attic is often an area to throw away things in my family. Unwanted Christmas presents, old magazines, and photos from Grandma, as well as the baby’s crib with the broken headboard
Many homeowners use their attics this way, and at Ottawa Home Pros, we’ve seen enough to be aware. The good thing is that the attic can be a lot more than a storage space for trash. You can create an attic remodel that can add value to your home and life by making a few adjustments.
Examining Your Attic
When your children grow, you may discover that you require more space, and larger homes aren’t feasible. The reason is that families living in tiny houses and have attics could be thinking upward as they contemplate ways to extend the living area.
But, attics are often places for discarded items and cobwebs due to a reason. Attics may be congested, strangely formed, poorly insulated, and have other issues that can deter users from using the space. You must address these issues before you begin your renovations to your attic.
Heating and Cooling
Do not forget to make your attic home comfy. It means heating for winter’s cold temperatures and air conditioning during the summertime. Have your designer examine your HVAC system. It may be required to make some adjustments so that it does not get overburdened. If needed, the HVAC contractor will be able to make the necessary modifications to your equipment.
Heating Recovery Ventilators (HRVs)
It sounds complicated and intimidating. It may sound complex and technical, but heat-recovery ventilation is an easy idea. It gets typically installed in an attic or similar space from the living space. The HRV circulates air from inside and out, focusing on drawing moisture away from home, mainly the kitchen and bathroom. The system gets designed to hold the maximum amount of original heat of air So that the energy doesn’t go to waste within the house. The unit then moves into fresh air from outside and pumps the actual heat back into the home. The house’s temperature remains the same, with less than 20% of the heat loss.
The same technique works in the summer months with excellent air conditioning. The air absorbs the chill as it gets pushed outside, and there is minimal energy loss.
If a family is small, the generator might require less frequent running. A family that gets crowded or one full of guests for the holidays may require more significant air movement and reduction of moisture. In these instances, it is possible to have the system modified to circulate the air more often or with less to maintain the quality of the air regardless of the time of change.
The price of this system may cause some to think twice. However, the benefits could provide comfort, security, and savings every month. It is particularly true in areas where keeping a steady temperature within the home is vital, as is the air quality. These devices get also required in Ottawa, where the cold forces people to close their doors and windows.
Access to the Attic
The space in your attic might be excellent. However, it’s only as long as it’s easily accessible. Be aware that accessibility for an older mature person might differ from what it would be for younger people. Suppose you’re looking to construct an environment frequently used. In that case, it is essential to inquire with your builder to ensure your attic is easy and safe to reach.
Light
It’s a common element, but it could create a significant impact on the overall atmosphere of your room. Many attics lack light because The intended for living space. It is possible to add skylights to allow plenty of natural light or set up large windows in your attic area.
The great thing is that today’s windows are more energy-efficient than windows from the past. It means you’ll be able to let more light through without sacrificing cooling or heating capacity. Furthermore, allowing in lots of natural light expands the room and makes it appear larger. Mirrors can also use within the room to absorb and reflect light giving the illusion of a larger space. Naturally, you’ll need to consider the lighting you choose to install to ensure the area is secure and cozy.
Attic Remodeling Process
Once the contractor has obtained all permits required and permits, the focus will be on preparing the space for physical support by individuals. It is a crucial stage since it establishes the foundation for the area to be traversed. Joists and supports might require strengthening and are secured first, then the subfloor. Building codes might also need a staircase running to the attic. Make sure your budget and timeframe allow for this.
Your contractor will then focus on the type of flooring you’ve selected and the drywall. You’ll probably receive inquiries about insulation in this phase, so don’t cut corners on it to save money. The insulation will make the new space feel like an attic converted into an actual room. Your attic is most susceptible to air loss due to its position at the highest point of your house. It could be cold and drafty in winter and particularly hot and stuffy in summer. It is also tough to change the insulation once the work gets completed. Make the right decision initially.
Begin by deciding what kind of space will be ideal for your family and you. Your attic can get converted into the main suite or a smaller studio. The remainder of your renovation depends on how you want to utilize the space.
Ottawa Home Pros offers house addition services in the Ottawa region. For your attic remodeling project, call us at (613) 288-9145 or send us an email at info@ottawahomepros.com.
