There is a preconceived notion that the attic is a space for storing unnecessary things. Just picture it, Christmas decorations, old clothes, dusty boxes filled with trinkets no one will ever use. Now, close your eyes again and imagine all that space put to much better use.
Renovations are never easy as they require a lot of free time, resources, and detailed planning. However, once you see the results of your hard labor, all of that becomes irrelevant. To make the process more bearable, we’ve compiled a list of steps you can take when renovating your attic space.
Permit
First and foremost, you must check whether you need a permit before you begin any construction work. These can vary based on your location, so make sure you contact the local permit office.
If you plan on adding any electrical wiring or ventilation, you will most likely need a permit. In case you are expanding the space or changing the structure of your home in any way, like pulling down a wall, some kind of permit will also be required.
Invest in High-Quality Construction Materials
Once you’re in the clear, it’s time to move onto more pressing matters, like selecting appropriate construction materials. Attics are spaces with a lot of humidity that are easily affected by temperature changes. In addition, experts claim that the most common rooms in your home where a fire is most likely to start are the kitchen, bedroom, and attic.
Therefore, you’ll need to use materials that are not only great insulators but are also fireproof. We suggest getting a multi-purpose building material like magnesium oxide boards. These panels are highly durable, light-weight, eco-friendly, and energy-efficient. They are also water- and fungi-resistant, which is highly suitable for spaces like the attic.
Windows
Attic spaces can be tricky to handle, especially when it comes to windows. Without a doubt, you’re going to need roof windows for your attic. They come in various designs and materials so it’s up to you to choose the one that fits your space the best. Experts suggest the so-called skylights because they are the best source of natural light.
Another important step is selecting the right window size. Custom-made windows are the safest choice, which is why you should know the exact measurements beforehand. Next is picking a highly durable material, as well as the opening mechanism. Windows have the power to make any room more spacious, so choose wisely.
Painting and Flooring
Color selection is of utmost importance when it comes to renovating any space, especially smaller, crowded ones like the attic. Interior designers suggest sticking to lighter color palettes to create the illusion of a larger space. If you’re not a fan of crispy white walls, you can always stick to neutrals like eggshell or light gray.
Flooring is no different; opt for lighter shades of wood to open up your space even further. Top designers even propose painting your floors white or some other similar hue. Don’t shy away from using paint! Not only is it a great way to save some money, but it also reflects more light than regular wooden or vinyl floors.
Customize Your Furniture
Customized furniture is the way to go when it comes to attics, as far as we’re concerned. Customized closets and other storage options are a great choice if you plan on using your attic as a bedroom or study. They might be on the pricier side, but they are well worth the splurge.
Of course, closets are not the only piece of furniture you can customize. You can also design a custom-made desk or a reading nook next to your window. Make sure you use every bit of space to your advantage. The number of options is limitless, just let your imagination run wild.
Final Thoughts
Every renovation is stressful, whether it’s something non-essential like a shed, or a brand new room. It requires patience and resources, but the final outcome is always worth it.
If you ever decide to renovate your attic, start by making sure you have all the permits. Next, select high-quality materials for the best results. Finally, focus on lighter colors and custom-made pieces. Follow our advice and you’ll get the attic of your dreams in no time.
