Audrey
Homeowners often need help with attics, like limited space and disorganization. Some of us disregard the potential of these spaces, and we get how frustrating this can be, knowing how uncluttered it is. That’s why we’re here to help. We have great solutions to turn your attic into a functional and attractive area. Whether you want a new room, more storage, or just better use of the space, we have you covered. Keep reading for seven practical ways to improve your attic.
1. Get Your Attic Check from an Expert
These people know all about attics and can give you helpful advice. Schedule a thorough attic check with a skilled individual for the best results. Ensure you hire a licensed insulation contractor who works locally and is known for being honest and fair-priced.
Also, avoid anyone trying to sell you unnecessary things. It’s also even better if the contractor knows many people in the community. They can recommend trusted people for other jobs like fixing the roof, plumbing, or electrical work. Doing these fixes together makes your home better, faster, and complete.
2. Seal Air Leaks in Your Attic
Over time, the seals around windows, roof edges, and walls can break down. This leads to cracks and gaps that let cold air out in hot months and warm air out in cold months. Beyond the discomfort caused by temperature fluctuations, these air leaks force your HVAC system to maintain the desired thermostat settings. Your HVAC system will also operate more effectively once you can seal these air leaks and eliminate drafts. This is important given that heating and cooling constitute around 50% of your energy expenses. Hence, any reduction in the usage of your HVAC system directly translates into cost savings.
3. Update or Replace Your Insulation
Focus on whether your insulation requires updating or a complete replacement. You need to assess various factors to make an informed decision, including:
- Insulation Quantity: Check if there’s sufficient insulation. It’s common for older homes to have insulation that’s displaced, missing, damaged, or compressed. Sometimes, adding extra insulation batts can restore the required insulation levels. For easy access to insulation in your attic, use a piston-assisted upper hatch like the Fakro LXW-B attic ladder opening hatch.
- Efficiency Standards: Evaluate the quality of your insulation in terms of meeting current energy efficiency standards. You must adhere to building codes because they require stringent guidelines to enhance attic efficiency through proper insulation.
- Damage Assessment: Inspect for signs of damage. Insulation can be compromised due to leaks, persistent moisture damage, subpar subcontractor work, or pest infestations. Based on the extent of the damage, your approach may involve adding more insulation to compensate or suggesting a complete insulation replacement.
- Toxicity Concerns: For those homes that haven’t been renovated for several decades, there’s a possibility of toxic insulation. Immediate replacement is advised in such cases to avert any health and safety risks associated with outdated insulation materials.
By meticulously assessing these factors, we seek to offer comprehensive recommendations tailored to your attic’s needs.
4. Clear the Clutter
The attic often becomes a storage for items we no longer use or need. It’s time to declutter! Begin by organizing your things into groups: keep, donate, and discard. Keep only what’s truly necessary or holds sentimental value. Donating items that can find a new home frees up space and benefits others. Discard items that are broken or beyond repair. By streamlining your attic, you’ll create an open and organized canvas to work with.
5. Shed Some Light on the Matter
Attics often suffer from inadequate lighting. Make an effort to brighten things up. Consider installing skylights or windows if your attic’s layout allows for it. Natural illumination not only lifts the atmosphere but also lessens the reliance on artificial lighting. When natural light isn’t possible, explore energy-efficient lighting solutions. LED lights, for instance, provide ample brightness while consuming minimal energy.
6. Embrace Smart Organization
Space constraints are a common challenge in attics. Overcome this hurdle with storage solutions. Wall-mounted shelves utilize vertical space efficiently, while built-in cabinets can fit seamlessly into sloped ceilings. You can utilize under-eaves storage to make the most of every inch.
Also, opt for furniture that pulls double-duty—storage benches or beds with drawers. Foldable desks are ideal for workspaces that must be tucked away when not in use. Beds that serve as comfy seating during the day and double as a bed for guests at night. This kind of furniture pieces can adapt to the attic’s layout while providing flexibility. You create a harmonious and usable environment by selecting furniture that fits both function and space.
7. Add Your Personal Touch
When you’re changing up your attic, remember to put your style into it. Pick colors you like that go with and what you’re using the attic for. Add things like rugs, cushions, or curtains that show what you want. Also, think about hanging up art, pictures, or stickers that feel like you. This personal touch changes the attic from a regular space into a comfy, inviting spot that’s all about you.
Conclusion
So, those are seven good ways to improve your attic—from a space that needs improvement to a nice part of your home. Get rid of mess, get good light, keep warm, pick good floors, use smart storage, get furniture, and add your touch. Remember these seven strategies to enhance your home attic. Every home is different, so change these ways to fit what you need and like.
