While you’ll need a contractor, as most homes aren’t equipped with leveling and demolition tools, that doesn’t mean you can’t take the building and design aspects into your own hands. Arming yourself with the knowledge you need is the first step to succeeding– and not getting ripped off by contractors.
Here’s how to convert a patio into a livable space.
Asses the Living Goals
Knowing exactly what you want to transform your patio into is the first step. The outcome will determine how intensive the work will be for the rest of the project.
For example, suppose you’re looking to turn your patio into a sunroom. In that case, you won’t necessarily have to worry about insulating the walls because you’ll mostly be dealing with screens and windows.
If you intend to convert your patio into a bedroom, you’ll need to focus on insulation, electrical wiring, and possibly plumbing.
Roofing and Foundation
If you’re planning on turning your patio into a heated room, you’ll need to either rip out the floorboards entirely or use the concrete as the foundation slab. This will be more labor-intensive if you have to level the foundation.
You’ll also need to extend the roof, ideally with some form of insulated roofing panels. Ultimately, you’ll need a flat, insulated foundation with roofing that extends, at minimum, to the ends of the foundation if you want the roof flush with the walls.
Walls and Electrical System
If you’re looking to craft a sunroom, you can easily brighten up a space without worrying about window spacing and wall insulation. Some benefits of retractable windows screens include privacy and cooling.
However, if you want electricity in your sunroom, you’ll need to run it through the foundation. Hopefully, you haven’t closed off access to the joists, so you can easily install the wiring instead of fishing it through.
Although installing walls requires the right professionals for insulation and is generally more labor-intensive, installing an electrical system is easy. Keep in mind where you’re putting the outlets. If you’re not decisive about the placement, you may not be able to put your furniture where you want it later on.
Although you likely won’t be able to totally DIY an extra room, understanding how to convert a patio into a livable space arms you with the knowledge to make sure things get done the right way.
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