How Proper Truss Design Makes Attic Conversions Easier and Safer

When you bought your house, you probably checked everything out and had everything planned out on the spot. Who will go to what room? What will each of the rooms be, how they'll be used, etc? 

And while most of your house has been organized and sorted, the attic is probably being used as a cobweb-filled storage area. And that's simply because that's what everyone does, so why not do it as well This article is all about how you can choose a different approach to using your attic.

Having that funky space at the top of your house to do whimsical things and give you extra storage space, and now, the kids are getting older, there is no need for a playroom; all you really have right now is, well, a storage space.

Well, take back those ideas and seriously start thinking about your attic as more potential living space and a grand project again. 

The Potential Each Attic Has

Before you get too ahead of yourself, it's important that you know what the actual potential for the space is. 

Not every attic is the same size or built the same way. First, there are a couple of questions you need answers to before you make a decision on what can be done with the place.

Do a structural assessment first:

• Is the roof structure in good shape?
• Will the floor joists take on extra weight or need reinforcement?
• What would your local building codes allow in the space?

Each house's attic will be primarily defined by the trusses you use in your roof. And even though the International Building Code (IBC) exists, every U.S. state might have its own building code. Plus, the counties might have extra amendments that are important for that particular area (e.g., freezing winter temperatures, extremely strong winds, etc.). 

Because of this, it's best first to consult a local structural expert or company to see what the situation's like at the moment. After you know what's what, you can start brainstorming ideas on what you want and what can be done with the attic.

Here's a quick example of why that's important (let's use Buffalo and Dade for a quick comparison):

In the Buffalo area, building codes follow the IBC, with most of the specifics being left to engineered truss design and stamped plans. 

This area also mandates the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code. The truss span limits meet engineered load calculations based on various factors (e.g., roof pitch, material, expected live/dead loads, etc.). There are even more rules regarding material limits, the whole approval process, and more. 

This is why someone in the Buffalo area would greatly benefit from a company such as Buffalo River Tuss, which can not only provide the service, but also give you valuable information about what might be feasible as is, or what you would need some structural changes before you invest in flooring and decor. Have a solid idea about what you want to make of the space and address any concerns related to that option with the specialists.

On the other hand, if you're in Dade County (Florida), the Florida Building Code (FBC) is being followed instead of the IBC, but each county can have its own amendments. In Dade County, there are strict wind-load requirements for such structures, because the area is a High-Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ) where trusses must withstand wind speeds of 175+ mph. 

And just like in Buffalo, there are more limitations regarding material limits and the entire approval process. That's why it's important to go for a local builder, even if the price isn't the best. 

You want quality and safety, and you want the structure built to code.

Once you know that the attic is structurally sound, you can start brainstorming ideas on what you want to use your attic for - an office, a gym, extra living space, etc., etc.

Here are a few ideas to get you going:

Home Office Space/Guestroom

Do you want the space to function as a nice home office area that is away from the rest of the household and quiet? Maybe you would like to section off a part for your office, and in the other half, an extra guest bedroom when you aren't working?

Things to think about:

• Access from outside or a proper staircase inside, not just a ladder to climb up?
• What weight would the joists be able to handle?
• Should you add a skylight or dormer for character, some sunshine, and natural light?
• Will more or different insulation be necessary?
• Additional electrical outlets?
• Extra lighting?

Lounge Area

A nice lounge area for the kids to bring their friends over to watch a movie or listen to some music. Or could you and your partner have game nights or cozy nights in front of the TV? 

Things to think about:

• Would you like a bathroom in the attic? Would the attic allow for the use of that kind of space?
• Could you install soundproofing of some kind to keep the noise at bay?
• Would the floor carry the weight of a fridge upstairs and the weight of a big screen?
• What would the power needs be?
• Would cushions slung about be better than trying to fit a heavy couch?
• Would there be a need for railings or a door on a potential bathroom?
• What kind of flooring is throughout?

Reading Retreat

Basically, what you're looking at is a space where you can run away to and have some good ol' peace and quiet; if you're a parent, you know that's a luxury that you'll very much enjoy. 

So, what do you want to do there? Some light yoga or zumba? What about a beautiful area filled with family memories, inspirational art, and some feng shui additions to balance your chi beside a shelf full of your favorite books to read?

Just sitting there with a book in your hand, enjoying the silence - sounds nice.

But how could it work?

• Are there nooks and crannies or deep angles that create natural zones for calmness?
• Could the area support an area for a living wall for herbs or tiny flowers? 
• Would there be enough natural light? Are there tricks to create more?
• Could heavy bookshelves be supported? 
• Would it be possible to have a porthole window facing the sunset or sunrise?

Good Ol' Fashioned Storage

Well, if it already is a storage, then you've already got most of it covered. But think about how most attics are full of dust and cobwebs. That's because the attic is (usually) used as storage for things that are never to be used again. Or for those boxes you had since you were a child. 

Sure, you might bring a box or two every 25 years or so to check it out, but do you REALLY need a whole attic just for that? 

Rather, you can use it as active storage, not only for things you need once a year, such as Christmas decorations, or the above-mentioned memories of the kids growing up, and old clothes that have not quite gone out of fashion. Use the attic for tools, seasonal clothing, seasonal bedsheets, and large kids' toys (you know how much space these things take?).

Use the attic as a place where you can store things you use multiple times per week. 

You can section off the areas so that you know where what is, where the tools are that you use only when you're doing maintenance/renovation, and where all the art supplies are for you to paint when you've got the time for it.You could add an abundance of storage for these items with some clever storage solutions:

• A vintage dresser with deep drawers can hold precious paper birthday cards, report cards, and letters.
• Custom storage that is purpose-built.
• Photo boxes housing all the photos you can thumb through anytime. Organize by year, event, person.
• If you are looking for a vibe of wooden boxes, decorative old crystal vases, and an eclectic collection of old dolls, old bells, old postcards, whatever pulls out the vibe of reusing, recycling, charmingly.

Conclusion

Whatever you decide on, make it your own, make it beautiful, and make sure it will be safe as is, or with little updates, plumbing, or shelving. 

If a skylight feels right, go with it. Make use of the space and let it carry you forward into places to play with grandchildren, quiet visits with old friends, or just to be. Fill it with wonderful things that inspire you, make you smile, and entice you to spend time up there. Even if it is a workspace, make work a wonderful place to be. 

Have a happy, fulfilling life in your new, unique space.

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