Historically, nearly 90% of houses in Canada were constructed with attics, although a growing number of modern homes opt out of the upper-deck due to energy loss associated with them (more on this below). For the most part, attics have been and continue to be an afterthought for residential developers, leaving exposed roof rafters or trusses, insulation, HVAC equipment, and electrical wiring in plain view. It’s this bare bones aesthetic that has demoted attics to storage room status, housing boxes of seasonal clothing, decor, and recreational equipment. As a result, household occupants generally visit their attic about four times per year to account for each season as they retrieve their appropriate wares from stacks of boxes.
Feeling as if the space represents untapped potential, you (Winnipeg homeowner) are wondering if it can become something more. You’ve come online to ask; should I finish my attic? As the city’s foremost residential upgrade specialist we have a lot of insight on the matter. Read ahead to find out why in nearly all cases finishing your attic makes perfect sense!
Big Reasons to Upgrade / Finish Your Attic and Some Great Ideas to Consider
I. BENEFITS OF FINISHING YOUR ATTIC
Protects Against Energy Loss
Visit most attics and you’ll experience notably colder temperatures in the winter and hotter temperatures in the summer. Attics are innately constructed with vulnerabilities to cooling and heating (energy) loss that can cost households thousands of dollars in unnecessary utilities expenditure. This is the most practical reason to finish your attic, as contractors can better insulate the space.
Protects Against Water Ingress
Houses with unfinished attics are vulnerable to precipitation, especially when winter snowpack adds a literal layer of stress. Many Winnipeg houses experience attic leaks at some point, particularly if the roof is older or poorly maintained. While exterior work can be done to improve the constitution of shingles, worn flashing around vents, or an improper roof pitch, upgrades that seal water entry-points from the inside-out can help prevent risk of water ingress.
Protects Against Pest Infestation
Pests such as insects, mice, rats, raccoons, and other critters make unfinished attics their home. It’s a big threat in Winnipeg where creatures seek refuge from harsh weather. Replacing or finishing old wood rafters and trusses along with upgrading cladding along the walls and vaulted ceiling will provide protections against pest infestation.
Increases Resale Value
Research from the National Association of Realtors finds that the average finished attic return on investment rate is 56%. This is on top of the increased quality of life experienced by occupants and guests.
Increases Homeowner / Occupant Satisfaction
This should be your primary motivator to convert an attic from a place of storage. When introducing any of the concepts below, a newly finished attic will dramatically increase enjoyment and satisfaction.
II. UPGRADES TO CONSIDER FOR YOUR ATTIC
Home Office / Workspace
Are you an entrepreneur or have the opportunity to work from home part-time or full-time? Then a new home office in a part of the home where there is more peace and quiet will help enhance remote work enjoyment along with productivity.
Home Creative Studio
An attic converted into a home office can be good, but for greater fulfillment you may instead consider installing a creative workshop or art studio if you or a family member is so inclined. Whether you have an Etsy store or are a casual/professional maker, painter, photographer, or sculptor (et cetera) this concept will provide years of satisfaction and enjoyment. View more on adding an art studio to your Winnipeg home.
Fitness Studio
An attic is idyllic for a fitness space that does not require heavy equipment, such as a yoga or pilates studio. That being said, moderate equipment can be introduced if flooring structures are upgraded to manage the load (and acoustics). View more on home gym additions.
Guest or Private Suite
Does extended family visit often? Or would you like them to? Or perhaps your teenager demands more privacy? An attic finishing completed by a contractor with expertise in bedroom installations (view more) can create a fully functioning suite on the upper floor. And if the space allows, attic bathroom and mini-kitchen installations may even be possible.
GET A QUOTE ON FINISHING YOUR ATTIC
(Winnipeg Area Homeowners)