DIY ideas to turn my unfinished attic into a fun hangout for my son

https://www.pinterest.com/jiales89/atticteen-hangout/?lp=true

You most certainly can, but there are a lot of things to consider. First is it legal to do so and if so, how much will the extra square footage add to your property tax bill and homeowners insurance. If legal, consult your local building codes for proper renovation. I would certainly add insulation, as attics can get broiling hot during the summer months. If at all possible, I would add another window on the opposite side of the house and have screens on both Windows so they can be opened for cross ventilation. And a portable oscillating fan to move air around in both summer and winter. For flooring, I would choose an easy to clean vinyl floor. Here are some great links to get you started!

https://www.salterspiralstair.com/blog/attic-conversion/

https://www.thespruce.com/attic-conversion-regulations-1821299

https://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/rooms-and-spaces/storage-space/amazing-attic-remodels-pictures

https://www.budgetdumpster.com/blog/attic-room-conversion/

When i was a kid my girlfriends parents did this and turned their 3 bed, 1 bath home into a 4 bed, 2 bath home. After all the kids left home, the parents moved up there (it was huge), and turned 2 of the lower bedrooms into an office for each one of them. Worked out great!

All depends on what kind of money you want to put into it? You could insulate and Sheetrock walls and the underneath side of the roof. Put underpayment down if needed and do whatever flooring you prefer or carpet. Choices are endless just depending on what your wanting to spend? But honestly boys don’t need anything fancy. Their usually perfectly happy to just have a secluded area to themselves to do whatever they want to do? Not sure how old your son is? But maybe ask your son what he would like up there? He just might surprise you with his answers?

Hi Kay, what a fun idea!! You can put up paneling to clean up the look and give it a comfy feel, from there put something down on the floors. Here are some ideas to help you out,

https://www.thisoldhouse.com/attics/21018773/best-attic-before-and-afters-2015

https://www.budgetdumpster.com/blog/attic-room-conversion/

https://www.houzz.com/magazine/14-tips-for-decorating-an-attic-awkward-spots-and-all-stsetivw-vs~19092751

Consult a contractor. An attic has to have 2 things, adequate insulation and adequate ventilation. Depending on the age of your home you could have a ridge vent along the roof line or gable vents at either end. You don’t want your attic to “sweat” or it can cause major damage. On the other hand, inadequate insulation will cause your heating/cooling bills to be abnormally high.