How to Renovate an Attic Space
- 1). Examine attic space for plumbing and wiring issues, along with any repairs needed. Assess the structural challenges of holding extra weight. Look at ways to route plumbing and electrical wiring from the rest of the house. Plan to install a small attic bathroom above a bathroom on the floor below. Do this to run drain lines and water pipes a shorter distance. Find out if any roof repairs or leaks need to be addressed, too.
- 2). Create the basic framing layout and sub-flooring of the attic. Build access stairs to make hauling materials into the attic easier. Use 2-by-4-inch boards to frame walls and eaves areas of attic rooms. Create framework for any dormer windows or skylights you plan to install. Lay ½-inch plywood boards over floor joists so you can have a solid walking surface as you work in the space.
- 3). Route electrical and plumbing materials and finish up walls. Run wiring for outlets and light fixtures while studs are open. Complete all plumbing tasks by routing water pipes and drains through open walls. Add insulation on exterior walls and eaves areas before nailing up drywall. Finish up drywall with joint compound, sand and paint.
- 4). Finish up details and hang interior doors. Install bath fixtures and add flooring. Install the toilet after a tile or vinyl sheet floor is in place. Add crown molding and baseboard materials. Build any wall units and install interior doors. Cut the bottoms of doors off to allow for carpet height, if carpet is used. Caulk any areas around windows or bath fixtures.
- 5). Bring furniture and decorative items into the space. Place living room furniture and bedroom furniture to look neat and uncluttered. Buy a leather sofa and two upholstered chairs, for example. Use only one large coffee table and place small items like books in a wall cabinet. Use a bed and simple furnishings, such as a reading chair with table. Install plenty of drawer space and closet space in the eaves areas.