Converting an Attic to a Livable Space

An attic has little use but as a storage. However, if you have a garage, you can use the upper portion of it as your storage area. Nowadays, with the economy in a frenzy, a homeowner should find ways to save every dollar. If the space in your home is becoming cramped, instead of finding a bigger house, consider converting the attic to a livable space instead.
Attic conversion only requires your patience and a few weeks of hard work. The following are some steps on how to convert your attic to a livable area.
1. First, you have to clean the whole attic area. Clutter makes it extremely unappealing and could cause serious health hazards. Clean from top to bottom and from wall to wall. Depending on the amount of sterilization you will need, make sure to adjust the cleaning solution into the job. If your attic needs heavy-duty cleaning, use home cleaning remedies like baking soda and apple cider vinegar.
2. If there are mildew issues, deal with them immediately. Remember to use protective gear like goggles and gloves when applying bleach to the area affected. Let the bleach sit for thirty minutes then rinse with a TSP solution.
3. After cleaning, you can begin to paint the trimmings and the ceiling with white. Trimmings include frame for windows, crown molding, base and chair rail. A white paint provides a sophisticated and streamlined appearance to the room.
4. Take into consideration the furniture you will need for the room and what takes up too much space. Although it is easy to get caught up in the conversion and to over-accessorize the room, you should avoid doing this because it will crowd the space and makes the place look and feel small.
5. You can maximize the use of the attic by using proper lighting. Make certain to choose appropriate lighting and consider what you intend the room to be used for and work with that idea.
6. Paint the room with a neutral color to update its look, such as the color tan. A neutral color provides a universal appeal to the room.
7. Make sure to install all electrical outlets properly. Outlets should be located in every four to six feet along walls and make sure there are phone, computer and television ports as well if you want to have them in the room.
8. If the stairs that led to the attic is only a fold-down ladder or an old creaking stairs, considering replacing them with something that is more functional.
9. If there are windows in the attic, determine if they are in good quality, otherwise, you have to replace them with good quality storm windows. If there is only a vent in each wall end, consider cutting a new vent.
10. When wiring is complete, you should start to insulate the walls and ceiling. Choose insulation with the highest R ratings you can afford. For walls, you will need an R-16 insulation and an R-30 or above insulation for the ceiling. Make certain to cut every roll into sections, insert them between the studs with a vapour barrier facing the interiors of the room and staple the side flaps to each stud in every six inches.

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