Looking for a ballpark figure to turn an attic into a bedroom.

Luk1040712
by Luk1040712
The attic needs insulation, new wiring, drywall, and heating. It is approx 40' x 21'
  5 answers
  • There are a few things to consider and it would be best to get a couple contractors in there to estimate for you. WE have our attic (part of it) converted to our teen son's room and you need to make sure there is an egress (a window that can be an escape route in case of a fire) and closet too. Plus the roof/ceiling to be high enough for furniture placement etc. You are probably looking between $10,000-25,000 depending upon what you plan on doing and I would consider using part for storage. Estimates are usually free and if you plan on doing it yourself you will want a contractor look first to make sure this is feasible. When I had to redo the attic after the previous owner did not put thick enough plywood for the floor and I had to lift up flooring to brace with 2x4s. The room is slanted so walking down the middle for my 6'2" son. Good luck.
  • Helen Cocuzza Helen Cocuzza on Jan 03, 2015
    That's roughly what I had to deal with several years ago for my aunt, it was just about $4500. That included udating of some electrical wiring, insulation, adding closet space & doors & adding new fixtures & light witchies & plug/outlets, sheetrock, etc, & the old stuff removal & waste receptacle rental. ** not including carpeting that I had bought on my own ** Hope that helps
  • Al Al on Jan 04, 2015
    Just finished a similar project. Cost around 5 grand. Did a lot myself. Heating? That could really run up the tab. Get estimates I have used Home Advisor site and been very happy with contractors connected with them.
  • Marion Nesbitt Marion Nesbitt on Jan 05, 2015
    Expanding living area. Been there and am still there! LOL My space was completed and about 40 x 40 but run down. Had it gutted, insulated, drywalled, plumbed, etc. Egress - very important. To get fairly accurate quotes .... make several floor plans of the area drawn to scale. (I ended up with about 3 for different purposes - electrical, carpentry, etc.) Cut out furniture, closet size, etc. to scale and play around with placement. When you decide, mark on the floor plan where you want closets, plugs, switches, overhead light fixtures, heat unit, etc. Get quotes from electricians first (unless you are going with a general contractor). Then decide on insulation and get some advice. You can probably do it yourself if not getting the spray-in type. You don't say what climate you're dealing with. I had 2 dedicated plugs to handle window ACs. I also had one for a microwave, etc. Always add a few hundred on top for the unexpected. Make sure you check out references. Get a contract with specific details like what kind of heating unit, etc., and completion dates. Keep an eye on what is going on. Fired one guy for trying to take short cuts. Don't pay up front. Hold back final payment until you're sure everything is done well. If they threaten lien, go to a lawyer. You can have this voided if you have a good reason. Cost depends on where you live. US is generally cheaper than Canada for both labour and goods. Good luck - it will be great when it's finished.
  • Jamoschini Jamoschini on Jan 06, 2015
    I would get a few estimates from several contractors. Do research on your own on the price of things then you have to add in the cost of labor. Know what look you are going for to be sure the furniture you choose will work in your space. Find out if you need a building permit.