Every attic is different but a few established norms and practices will guide your renovation.
Finished attic hvac.
Building codes vary by location but most require at least a 7 foot clearance for attic expansions.
Attic hvac units are potentially inefficient.
Need more headroom in the basement.
Before you start the job however consider these five hvac tips to help you effectively turn your attic into a spare bedroom.
By the time the hvac unit gets planned putting it in the attic is the only thing that makes sense especially cost wise.
Increase or move insulation.
The type of ventilation or roof vent that you ll need depends on your home s construction and the details surrounding your attic.
That s measured after you finish the ceiling.
A contractor or a local building official can help you assess how the rule will apply to your attic and how modifications like dormers can resolve height shortcomings.
Consider whether the old system is powerful enough to cover new areas without losing efficiency though.
In many homes the insulation layer in the attic is along the floor.
To find the answer you can hire an inspector to inspect your hvac system.
Attic ventilation systems also work together with your insulation.
Sometimes the hvac system winds up in the attic because it s the last thing on the home designer s list.
This isolates the attic from the rest of the home which means the attic isn t part of the conditioned envelope.
Enforcement varies but codes typically say that at least half of a finished attic must be at least 7 feet high and that this area must be a minimum of 7 feet wide and 70 square feet.