Attic Conversion, only 6' 4" at the tallest.

12 years ago

I would like to use the attic space in my house. It is being used for nothing, which is a shame. I can walk around in it but there is not enough height to jump. It is not finished but there are 2 windows already. It has stairs for access. The house is located in Michigan.

It could really only be used as a bedroom. It feels like such a shame to not use it for something. Want to know if it would be worth it. The space could never be added in the square footage but it would be worth it just for another space to sleep and personal room.

I need help deciding if it would be worth it,.Would really appreciate any feedback.

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PRO

TRUADDITIONS

12 years ago

In California we have homeowners building out these types of spaces. It's not recommended to sleep anyone in a space where the window is not the proper size for egress in case of fire. We're currently reviewing a similar project almost the same exact size, but we will be calling it storage space on the plans (third level attic). Structural floor is being added to reinforce the existing framing. I'll see if I can find a picture of the before shot. I know I have a picture of a similar space where were popped the roof up slighting. It has funny angles but it worked for the homeowner. Let me see if I can find it and attach the pic here....

Found them...This was rafter space above the garage. We raised a small dormer to make the room qualify as an inhabitable space. Hope you get inspired.

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Comments (7)

qam999
12 years ago
For living space, building codes typically require something like the following (do check with your local building permit body):

* Minimum floor area of 70 sq ft
* Minimum headroom of 7' or 7.5' over >= 50% of floor area
* Minimum stairway size, windows etc.

http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2005-04-15/business/0504150026_1_attic-dormer-space

You would absolutely have to do something with your roof to create a space that could be permitted as living space. Dormers are the obvious example.
Eric Smethurst thanked qam999
Eric Smethurst
Original Author
12 years ago
I am aware of the codes, but would doing any finishing work in the attic reduce the value of the home? Other then the cost out of my pocket would it be bad to convert the space into something?
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hamster6440
12 years ago
Carpeting? Paint? Cool lighting? These things could increase home price.
qam999
12 years ago
As a buyer, I would look askance on any conversion or remodeling done in violation of building codes. It would cause me to be more wary of the whole transaction. Unpermitted space wouldn't be counted in appraisals anyway. So yes, it would be bad.

BTW, the space IS already being used for something....ventilation and insulation for your house. You can also use it for certain forms of storage. My 2c.
PRO
SoCal Contractor
12 years ago
In the old days those would be used for kids rooms, storage, art studios, anything that did not require high ceilings. Not reason it shouldn't work nowadays. If you can't get it permitted, at list you'd have some extra space.
Joy von Glueck
9 years ago
Did you Ever make the sleeping loft? I'm doing the same thing with same size as yours!! It wont be reportable/permittable living square footage when you sell BUT you will have a wonderful extra space while you live there! and it will be a "bonus" for the buyers when the time comes--that's what my realtor---Very experienced--- told me. I hope you went ahead and did it AND reinforced the floors..Im doing a spiral staircase!