Building Into Attic Space

Other model building code citations for attic access stairways 2009 ibc commercial construction requirement for attic space access.

Building into attic space.

Other structural issues are also factors including whether there is adequate space to install a stairway to the attic. You ll need a much larger staircase and landing to accommodate furniture. Generally 7 feet 6 inches high over a minimum floor area of 70 square feet. For fire safety there must be two ways out a second staircase for example or a window.

There are projects that you can build into your renovation to meet building code which qualifies your attic for conversion into a living space. There are many things to consider before undertaking the work. But the second you turn your attic into living space it s a whole new ballgame. The stairs have to be wide enough to handle a dresser or sofa but also have a large enough landing to handle the turn at the top.

Building code often requires stairway access to the attic if the space is to. Because local codes vary your building inspector can provide a list of applicable codes and required inspections for your new attic bedroom. Access and egress code generally requires a full size staircase with a minimum 6 foot 8 inch clearance above it. A freestanding midcentury modern fireplace fits nicely into the corner of this attic apartment.

Turning an attic into a room can add value to your home and additional living space for your family. The first is your ceiling height. Many older homes were built with steep pitched roofs and plenty of available height that makes attic conversion easy and inexpensive. If your attic is shorter than this you can lower the ceiling on the.

An l shaped sectional provides plenty of seating to enjoy the fire. More seating will make the room seem bigger and it provides more functionality. Here s a look at some building code basics when it comes to turning attic space into living space. To be classified as a livable space your floor to ceiling height will have to be at least 7 feet.

To pass code there must be at least 70 square feet where the ceiling height is 5 feet or. If you have an attic shorter than required by code you won t be able to remodel it into living space.