How to Build an Attic in Existing Rafters

Weight

• One of the primary considerations when building an attic in existing rafters is whether or not those rafters will be able to hold the weight. Chances are you will have to reinforce the joists to support the weight of a room above. Local building codes also may require that you reinforce the joists anyway, so it is best to determine whether or not this is the case before proceeding. Because all homes are different, you can't assume the rafters will hold. Hire a structural engineer to assess your home and make suggestions. This may save you considerable money in the long run.

Framing

• Once you have assessed the possibility of turning your rafters into an attic, you can begin framing the room. This will involve constructing the floor first and then the interior walls of the room. Floor construction will consist of providing supports that are perpendicular to the existing rafters. The floor surface must be made of 4-by-8 feet sheets of reinforced plywood or oriented strand board. The wall frames should then be constructed from 2-by-4 boards.

Electrical

• Connecting the electricity from the rest of the house to the attic is another concern in turning your rafter space into an attic. This also is one of those tasks that will require you to consult your local codes to see what permits you may have to pull to add electrical wiring to the attic. Installing a new subpanel may be necessary. This can be a complex process and also may require the help of a qualified professional. A professional licensed electrician will be able to provide you with the necessary guidance for integrating your new room's electricity into your existing wiring system.

Drywall and Finishing

• Once the framing and electrical components of the attic have been put into place, you will then need to finish the room by adding the drywall and all of the finishing touches. Drywall construction is as much an art as it is a skill. It is one of those jobs that you can do on your own with some patience and perseverance. You may want to consider the costs, however, and think about hiring a professional to hang the drywall. Add baseboard trim, flooring and other finishing touches as needed.