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All Mr. Handyman franchises are locally owned and operated and may offer fewer or more services than those listed here. To learn more about the attic renovation and repair services offered in your area, contact your local Mr. Handyman for details or a customized on-site assessment.
Attic FAQs
Mr. Handyman has been helping homeowners repair, maintain, and enhance their spaces for over 25 years! We are the one-stop solution for everything on your to-do list. This includes answering your questions about home repairs, maintenance, and improvements. Here are answers to some of your most frequently asked questions about attic renovation and repair services:
Is it worth finishing an attic?
Possibly! Finishing an attic can definitely be worth it if you’re looking to add usable space, boost your home’s value, or even improve your home’s energy efficiency. Turning the attic into a cozy bedroom, home office, or playroom is a great way to maximize the space you already have without the expense of building an addition. Plus, adding insulation during the conversion can help with heating and cooling costs. Just keep in mind factors like ceiling height, the structural support needed, and local building codes before diving into a full attic remodel.
How do I know if my attic can be converted?
A finished attic typically needs at least seven feet of clearance over a significant portion of the space to meet building code conversion requirements and feel comfortable. It’s also worth looking into the attic’s structural support; you’ll need sturdy floor joists that can handle the weight of furniture, flooring, and people.
Make sure there’s access, like a full-size staircase, and space to add insulation and ventilation, which are essential for a comfortable, code-compliant attic renovation. Local building codes may also have specific requirements, so it’s a good idea to consult with a contractor or inspector to confirm if your attic is a good candidate for conversion.
What is the “seven and seven” rule for attics?
The "seven and seven rule" is a handy guideline for deciding if an attic is suitable for converting into a living space. Basically, it means that for an attic to be functional and comfortable, you should have at least 70 square feet with a ceiling height of seven feet or more.
Since attics often have sloped ceilings, this rule makes sure there’s enough headroom in a good part of the space to move around. It’s a quick way to see if an attic has the potential to be a usable room before diving into a full remodel.
How do I fix up an old attic?
Start by finding and remedying essential attic repair needs like leaks in the roof, windows, and cracks or support problems with the floor or joists. Next, move onto cleaning out any dust or debris to create a blank slate. You’ll want to add insulation to keep the space comfortable year-round, which can also help with energy costs. Once the basics are covered, think about adding new flooring, fresh paint, and lighting to brighten up the area.
How do I repair a hole in the attic?
Small holes in the attic floor or walls can usually be patched with spackle or a patching compound. Just clean around the hole, apply the compound, smooth it out, and let it dry before sanding it down.
If you’re dealing with a larger hole, especially in walls or the ceiling, you might need to cut a piece of drywall to fit, screw it in, and tape over the seams. Then, apply some joint compound and sand once it’s dry to get a smooth finish. If the hole is in the attic roof or an exterior wall, make sure to use weather-resistant materials and add a sealant to keep out any water or critters.
