An attic is often one of the most neglected areas in a home. It’s usually dark, dusty, and filled with old belongings that you no longer need. However, finishing an attic can add valuable living space to your home.
The cost of finishing an attic will vary depending on the size of the space and the project’s scope. However, the average price to finish an attic is between $5,100 and $16,900.
What Are You Planning to Use the Attic For?
Before starting any attic finishing project, you need to decide what you will use the space for. Are you going to use it as a bedroom, home office, playroom, or something else? Once you know what you want, you can plan the layout and choose suitable finishes.
Great Ideas and Costs For a Finished Attic
If you’re not sure what to do with your attic, here are some ideas that might spark your creativity:
- Home office: $12,000-$42,000, includes labor and material
- Master suite: $29,000-$82,000, includes a bedroom, bathroom, and closet
- Bathroom: $11,800-$54,000, includes installing a bathroom and finishing the surrounding space
- Bedroom: $10,000-32,000, includes labor and material
- Storage space: $6,500-$19,700, includes installing a closet organizer, material, and labor
Things to Consider Before You Finish an Attic
Insulation:
Adding insulation is one of the most important things to improve your home’s energy efficiency. There are different types of insulation, and the best type for your attic depends on several factors, including climate, budget, and whether you plan to finish the space.
Ventilation:
Good ventilation is essential in any attic, as it helps keep the space cool in summer and prevents moisture buildup that leads to mold and other problems. If you’re finishing your attic, you’ll need to ensure enough ventilation to comply with building code requirements.
Structural Integrity:
Before finishing an attic, it’s essential to check for any potential structural issues that need to be addressed. This may include ensuring the roof is adequately supported, fixing any cracks or gaps in the attic floor, and installing rafters or trusses.
Fire Protection:
If your attic is utilized as a living space, it’s essential to ensure it’s appropriately fire-protected. This may include installing a fire-rated ceiling, installing smoke detectors, and creating an escape plan in case of a fire.
Access:
If you’re finishing your attic, you’ll need to ensure adequate access to the space. This may mean adding a staircase or ladder or widening an existing doorway.
Lighting:
Attics can be dark and dreary, so adding some light fixtures is essential to make the space more livable. This may include installing a skylight or adding ceiling lights.
Storage:
An attic can be a great place to store extra belongings, but it’s important to have adequate storage space. If your attic is cramped, consider adding some shelves or cabinets.
Building code requirements:
Before finishing your attic, check with your local building department to see what code requirements need to be met. This may include things like proper ventilation, fire protection, and access.
HVAC system upgrade:
If you’re using your attic as a living space, you may need to upgrade your HVAC system to accommodate the additional space. This may include adding more insulation, upgrading ductwork, or increasing the capacity of your furnace or air conditioner.
A Breakdown Cost For Finishing the Attic Per Task
- Framing and drywall installation: $6,000 – $10,000
- Flooring: $1,800-$4,000
- Windows: $1,000-$2,900
- Doors: $700-$1,900
- Lighting: $900-$3,000
- Painting: $1,000-$3,700
- Fan installation: $500-$975
A Walk-Up Attic: How Much Does It Cost to Finish?
The cost of finishing a walk-up attic will vary based on the size of the space and the desired features, but it typically falls between $14,100 and $39,700. It usually includes the cost of adding a staircase, wood flooring, and lighting.
Attic Bedroom: How Much Does It Cost to Finish?
Attic bedrooms can vary in price depending on the size of the space and the features added. Generally, adding a bedroom in the attic will cost $5,000 to $10,000. This includes adding insulation, framing, drywall, windows and trim, and electrical work.
Attic with a Dormer: How Much Does It Cost to Finish?
The average cost to finish an attic with a dormer ranges from $5,900 to $17,500. This price includes framing, sheetrock, insulation, electrical work, materials, and labor.
Do I Need a Structural Engineer to Finish My Attic?
Hiring a structural engineer might be necessary to finish your attic if the space is large or if you plan to make significant changes, such as adding a dormer. A structural engineer can help you determine if the attic is structurally sound and identify any potential issues that need to be addressed.
Raising the Roof Costs
The cost of raising the roof will vary depending on the project’s complexity, but it typically ranges from $18,000 to $120,000. Additional charges may be incurred if you need to hire a structural engineer or architect. This includes:
- Planning and permits
- Removing the current roof
- Plumbing and electrical work
- Exterior remodeling
- materials and labor costs
Electrical Work By a Licensed Electrition
Adding additional electrical work to the attic can be tricky and dangerous, so calling in a professional is best. A licensed electrician can help you add new wiring, outlets, and light fixtures to make the space more usable. The cost of this work will vary depending on the size and complexity of the project.
What’s Cheaper, Finish an Attic or a Basement?
The cost of finishing an attic or a basement will vary depending on the size and complexity of the project, but generally, it is cheaper to finish an attic. This is because basements typically require more work to make them livable, such as waterproofing and adding egress windows. However, the final remodeling cost will depend on the specific features you want to add to the space.
When deciding whether to finish an attic or a basement, it’s important to consider the purpose of the space. An attic may be a better option if you’re looking for extra living space because it’s typically easier to convert into a livable space. However, if you’re looking for storage space or a place to put a home office, a basement may be a better option.
Is it Possible to Convert the Attic into a Living Room?
Converting an attic into a living room is possible, but it will depend on the size and layout of the space. In most cases, the attic will need to be framed and drywalled to make it livable. You will also need to install windows and doors and electrical wiring and plumbing. Converting an attic into a living room typically ranges from $15,000 to $36,000.
Need a Home Remodeling Company in Denver?
If you’re looking for a Denver-based home remodeling company, look no further than our team at Attic projects. We specialize in attic finishing and can help you turn your space into a usable and livable area. Contact Schwalb Builders today at (303) 357-9717 for a free estimate.
