Homeowners who want to add valuable space inside their house could think about ways the attic space could transform into a more livable part of the home. In some cases, the attic space could require renovation or upgrades to improve the energy efficiency and ventilation of the residence. There are many unique possibilities for Finished Attics remodeling, and each has its advantages and challenges. But, a few common errors are to get avoided in every attic remodeling project. Attic renovation mistakes people commonly make include:
Mistake to Avoid Is Trying an Attic Renovation DIY
Do-it-yourself home improvements typically seem appealing at first. However, things could quickly become a disaster if the homeowner or someone doing the work is not aware of the project. Many DIY homeowners will not bother having the proper permit for their project from their local municipality. If a license is received, it’s more likely that code violations can occur when the homeowner isn’t current with the latest or evolving codes.
Working with a Home Additions contractor has several advantages. The work gets constructed according to the code of conduct and high-quality artistry. The completion of the relevant permissions is guaranteed by a recognized insured, licensed, and licensed home improvement contractor. Once the project gets completed, it may be necessary to redo the work. Contractors who are reputable and insured stand on their word, which will provide you with additional protection and confidence.
You Can’t Achieve Your Objectives Without a Strategy
It’s helpful to know the scope of what you’d like to achieve with your attic renovation and then think about your objectives in the area. A professional contractor can guide you to determine the most practical and achievable options with available space and the best way to integrate your entry and exit points with other house areas.
Ignoring Proper Ventilation, Insulation, and Heating and Cooling
Owners of homes must be aware that a renovation of their attic requires specific considerations for the proper ventilation insulation, and heating and cooling. These aspects can also impact items you can store and what you should not put in the attic. Attics help with energy efficiency and temperature control by allowing ventilation and providing a wall between the ceiling and roofline.
You might be thinking about converting your attic into an extra living space. If that is the case, you should get prepared because the project may require additional planning on how the room will be ventilated and insulated to keep it cool during harsh weather conditions. In addition, a poorly-insulated or inadequately ventilated attic could result in an area within your home which is costly to cool and heat.
It is only one of the numerous reasons roof ventilation is vital. Attics are areas in the house known for leaking energy, water, and ventilation problems. But, picking the right contractor to improve your home can ease these problems. A seasoned contractor can determine the way HVAC could be integrated into the space and will know when the area should get insulated to prevent condensation building up.
Not Noticing the Stairs
Your attic may be the perfect spot to renovate. If your accessibility to the attic isn’t accessible, you’ll need to think about integrating stairs into your new living space. The staircases could necessitate a change to some aspects of the inside layout of your home.
Access to the attic is usually offered by folding pull-down steps or narrow stairs that has just a few steps. These are great options if your attic gets used for storage space. For everyday use for accessing a finished living space in your home, they do not be able to meet the code requirements. Viewing the stairs from above is one of the most common errors in attic renovation, but having a knowledgeable, trustworthy contractor can prevent it.
Not Taking the Time to Think About Escape Routes
Alongside the stairs, you’ll need to think of other methods for egressing from the attic if you want to convert it into additional living space. The window should be big enough to permit a person or firefighter carrying an oxygen tank to walk through. You might also consider building an outdoor stairway on the other side of the house or a fire escape ladder under the window.
Lighting gets Treated as an Afterthought
There are many options for artificial lighting in your attic. However, if you’re looking to get more light from the sun, a skylight is better than a finished attic! Make sure to give the lighting of your attic’s renovation particular attention.
Since lighting is a crucial aspect of any room, you wouldn’t want to let it be an extra nothing. Making plans for track lighting, skylights, and other alternatives will ensure that you are left with a welcoming and well-lit living space that’s comfortable, energy-efficient, and has the visual appeal you’ve ever had in mind!
Attic remodeling is a fantastic opportunity to maximize the available space beneath your home’s roof and turn it into an efficient or more beneficial stretch. You’ll be able to reap all the benefits that these initiatives can bring after finalizing the work. Keep these common remodeling mistakes in mind and hire a reputable contractor. To start planning your attic renovation project, give Ottawa Home Pros a call at (613) 288-9145 or send us an e-mail at info@ottawahomepros.com.
