Attic Renovation | Planning Attic Renovation

Attic Renovations and Headroom

Attics that have highly steep roof pitches, e.g. a 12/12 pitch, are ideally suited for creating attic living space. However, even with steep roof pitches, there is less living space that can be carved out of the attic then most homeowners realize.

Another key element that needs to be evaluated when undertaking an attic renovation project is how the attic is framed. For example, what type of ceiling joists were used in the framing? Ceiling joists of the lower level are effectively the floor joists of your attic area. Frequently attic ceiling joists are inadequate for supporting the weight of a living space. Consequently larger sized lumber may need to be sistered, or married, to the existing ceiling/floor joists. If the existing ceiling joists are inadequate you will inevitably wind up with cracked lower level ceilings.

Attic framing also frequently has cross braces and collar ties running throughout them. You may need to meet with an architect or your local building inspector to see what you can do to replace these structural supports in a way to create a larger unobstructed living space.

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Attic Renovation | Planning Attic Renovation