I'd like to extend the living space of my house into the attic. How can I determine whether it is suitable?

Question

The home is single story, was built in 1993 and is in Texas. The attic is plenty big enough with lots of headroom.

Answer 1

you definitely need to talk to someone qualified to tell you whether the roof system will handle the additional weight. if engineered trusses were used to build the roof, they most probably did not factor in any additional loads beyond roof shingles, drywall, winds, etc. you don't want to build a room up there and put a bunch of furnishings and stuff and have the roof and ceiling cave in during a windstorm. I would talk to several licensed contractors and get an opinion from an engineer or a truss company, they won't have any motivation to tell you yes you can do it just to get the job.

Answer 2

Dont want to knock you, but if you cannot determine this yourself the job is beyond your skills - this is a structural job and should be handled by pros with very good references and the qualification to design / engineer the required structural changes.

Do this kind of work wrong and you are risking lives and possibly insurance issues if you were to ever have a claim.

I would start with an architect specializing in residential renovation projects and hire them for consultation.

Beyond that, if it looks like you have the space, it really seems to be an issue of structure. The other issue will be suitable access to this area from the main floor without messing up main floor plan and flow.

Answer 3

You need to have an architect draw up the plans. This way the city is more apt to approve the permit. Have to have a structural engineer out to determine how much the footings have to be beefed up. The footings poured were for a single story, a second story would add much more weight, you wouldnt want the second story coming down on top of the first floor.

Answer 4

Be sure to have room for comfortable stairstep height. Will take up more space below than you might think. Be sure to know where load bearing walls are below if you want to add any walls upstairs. Great idea! Consult with experienced builders for free advice while getting bids.on the job. Always have a contract with total price and materials list , completion date and exact price and signature of property owner and contractor.

Answer 5

I doubt whether it is structurally able to support more than just light storage, such as lightweight boxes (Christmas tree, decorations, etc.)
But, you'll need to consult a contractor specializing in attic renovations to be sure or talk to a structural engineer.

Answer 6

I WOULD ASK A PROFESSIONAL ON SOMETHING LIKE THAT