How to Renovate the Attic of an Antique Home

Some of the best homes to renovate are those that are antique. This is because it has so much potential unlike the modern homes of today. One room in the house that can be converted into living space is the attic and here is how you do it.

First, you will have to inspect the condition of the attic which can be done by hiring an experienced inspector. This person will be able to tell the extent of work that needs to be done and if it is feasible.

Since most antique homes are considered national treasures, you should know the limitations of the renovation. For that, you will have to get a copy of the preservation guidelines.

Antique homes are much different than modern ones. So, if you need help, you don’t just call any contractor but hire someone who happens to be recognized by the local preservation society or historic commission because they have encountered unexpected problems in the past and are now better prepared should it happen again. For instance, in the old days there was a lot of lead found in paint and asbestos in most homes. You may not know that and at least there is someone there who does.

For the lighting in the attic, you can switch from toggle switches that were very popular back then to the modern push button type. The bulbs used should be energy-saving fluorescent or compact fluorescent. Whenever possible, also use some task lights.

Most attics don’t have windows. For that, you should install energy-efficient ones to prevent heat loss. This will surely make it comfortable for those who want to spend time working up here or just hanging out.

If the walls are still good, you can take away the cracks and peels so this can be repainted again preferably with protective coating so there will be no damage if it gets wet. If you want to use wallpaper, make sure that it has a waterproof coating.

As for the floor of the attic, you can make this good as new by sanding it. Another option is to buy a carpet and have this over the wood. But if it is damaged, you should find some old wood, replace it then again cover this up with the carpet.

Some homeowners want to make the attic look like it was during its heyday. For that, you will have to look for some old stuff. You can check out the junk yard, or the garage since there still could be something there that you will find useful. This will prevent the home from losing its value should you want to sell it again in the future.

Perhaps the two modern things that you will have to add in the antique home are proper insulation and ventilation. Again, this was not used back then but since you are turning this into living space, it is only right that you put layers of insulation on the ceiling and a ventilation duct, so you will be able to keep the temperature of this place at a comfortable level during the warm and cold months of the year.

If you are successful in renovating the attic of the antique home, you can also do the same for the rest of the house. By taking it one step at a time, you will never go way above your budget so there is still money for other things like new furniture or appliances which you would like to purchase and put inside your home.