I'm new to the site.
I'm curious as to what kind of potentially usable space I might see if I built (or had help building) an attic loft in a 2/2 home with a low pitched roof (about 5:12 pitch).
Basic Details:
– 1160 square feet, 2 bed, 2 bath
– 5:12 pitch (not a high pitched roof)
– slab = 40' x 30' (approximately)
If I move forward with the idea, I'm thinking of replacing the attic ladder with a spiral staircase – currently in a closet.
I have not purchased the home yet, so unfortunately I cannot get exact measurements.
Any direction or research ideas would be helpful as I am a complete novice to this idea. So far, everything I've found are Attic Loft ideas for High Pitched Roofs so even a website link for an attic loft with a low pitched roof example would be helpful.
Many Thanks!
-Gabriel B.
Houston, TX
Best Answer
I'd say bad idea & keep looking at other houses. Go look at it again with a tape measure. But, the only thing I might consider is putting the utilities up there to gain more user-friendly space on the main floor. Get rid of closets to use floor to ceiling cabinetry instead & store more up in the attic. Maybe a garage or porch can be abandoned & converted to real square footage.
The issue is structural framing & of course roof pitch. It may be stoop worthy but not stand-up worthy & therefore would not ever constitute a legal room of any kind. Typically, the ceiling has to have a minimum peak of 7-feet & you may only have a 3-foot wide section of anything even close to that. Depending on joist height, insulation, rafter depth, collar ties & ridge beam. If any wood has to come out, the plan fails instantly & should not be attempted.
However, if it's wide open & you're thinking it'll just be an office type use where you're seated the majority of the time, then it may work for you. Though, I'd opt for more insulation & hanging utilities from the rafters to then use it as just a crawlspace sort of storage area.