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Attic Remodeling Cost

How Much Does Attic Remodeling Cost?

Average: $2,000-$5,000

High: Conversion averages: $10,000-$25,000 or more

Related Topics:

Home Addition

Basement Remodeling

Garage Conversion

All Home & Garden

Remodeling an unfinished attic or attic conversion can provide much-needed storage or living space, but the project usually requires extensive changes, such as reinforcing the attic joists to bear weight, and adding insulation, plumbing, heating, air conditioning, stairs and other features as needed in a particular home.

Typical costs:

Creating 400 square feet of storage space in the attic atop an 1,800-square-foot home by adding flooring, lighting and insulation, as well as reinforcing the attic floor joists cost about $3,000, according to RealtyTimes.com. On average, converting an attic into storage space runs $2,000 -$5,000, depending on the existing state of the attic, the challenges faced and the amenities desired.
A basic pull-down staircase is around $100 -$300 (aluminum costs more than wood), but a high-quality pull-down stair with an energy-efficient insulated cover can run $750 -$1,000. Installing a pull-down staircase is similar to installing a pre-hung door and installation costs anywhere from $75 -$300 or more depending on location and the complexity of the project.
A simple conversion of an attic into one large open living space, such as a playroom or workroom, still requires reinforcing the floor joists as well as adding insulation, ventilation, electrical wiring, plumbing, finished floors, finished ceilings, finished walls and meeting building codes for items such as an additional fire exit through a window or other opening. This can average $10,000 -$25,000 or more, depending on the existing attic space, the challenges faced and the amenities desired.
Converting unfinished attic space into a 15x15-foot bedroom and a 5x7-foot bath with shower as well as a 15-foot dormer (for head room), four new windows, closet space, insulation, finished ceilings and walls, electrical wiring and lighting to code and adding a rail and baluster to an existing stairwell costs an average of $38,520 -$52,583, according to RemodelingOnline. However, some estimates for extensive work converting attic space into an upscale living area are as high as $80,000 -$90,000 or more.

What should be included:

Check with your local planning department, even if you're just adding flooring in the attic for additional storage space.. Adding living space in an attic always requires a permit to be sure the remodeled room meets all code standards such as sufficient ventilation and a second fire exit (a window will do).
The US Department of Energy provides attic insulation tips, and DoItYourself.com gives guidelines for creating safe attic storage.
Better Homes & Gardens lists guidelines for deciding if your attic is worth remodeling into more living space as well as examples of conversions into a master suite and a dance studio/family room.

Additional costs:

The paperback Attic Remodeling Workbook by Don Fritschen is $9.95.

Shopping for attic remodeling:

RenovationExperts.com lists the steps needed in an attic conversion and tips for hiring a contractor. Contractor referrals are available through the National Association of the Remodeling Industry.
Get several estimates, making clear what is (and isn't) included in each quote. Request and check references; ask about the contractor's length and type of experience; and be sure they're properly bonded, insured and licensed in your state. See if there are any complaints with the Better Business Bureau.

Article updated November 2007