Attic Remodeling: Turn Unused Space into Livable Square Footage

Ben
May 12
2 min read

If you’re looking to add functional space to your home without building an addition, your attic might be the answer. Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy guest suite, a quiet home office, or a playroom for the kids, attic remodels offer a smart way to expand upward.

Here’s what to know if you’re considering an attic remodel in Central PA—from design ideas to cost considerations.

Why Remodel Your Attic?

Most attics are underutilized or unfinished, but they often have more potential than homeowners realize. With the right updates, you can gain:

Extra bedroom or guest suite
Home office or creative studio
Workout room or yoga space
Kids’ playroom or teen hangout
Storage plus finished living space

Remodeling your attic increases your home’s usable square footage without expanding your footprint—a huge benefit in homes with small yards or zoning restrictions.

What’s Involved in an Attic Remodel?

Transforming an attic into livable space usually includes:

Insulation and air sealing for comfort and efficiency
Framing and drywall to define walls and ceilings
Upgraded electrical and lighting
Heating and cooling extensions or mini-split systems
Flooring installation
Skylights or dormers for natural light and headroom
Egress windows or stair access (required by code for bedrooms)

Older homes in the Harrisburg, Annville, and Mechanicsburg areas often need updates to bring attics up to code—but the investment can be well worth it.

Design Considerations

Attics tend to have sloped ceilings, limited height, and tricky layouts—but with smart design, these become features rather than flaws.

Tips:

Use built-in shelving and storage in low-ceiling areas.
Paint walls and ceilings light colors to make the space feel larger.
Add skylights or dormers for light and headroom.
Choose low-profile furniture to fit the space.

A professional remodeler can help you work around layout challenges and meet building codes.

How Much Does an Attic Remodel Cost?

Costs vary widely based on the attic’s current condition and how it's being used, but here are rough estimates:

Type of Remodel	Approximate Cost
Basic Finish (office/playroom)	$25,000 – $45,000
Bedroom with Closet & Egress	$40,000 – $70,000
Full Guest Suite (with bathroom)	$60,000 – $100,000+

Older homes may require structural upgrades or HVAC changes, which add to the cost.

Is It Worth It?

An attic remodel typically allows homeowners to recoup 50%–75% of the project cost at resale, especially when it adds a legal bedroom or livable space in a competitive housing market.

More importantly, it gives you usable space without the cost of a full addition.

Start Your Attic Renovation with Confidence

At Ebersole Remodeling, we help Central PA homeowners unlock the potential of their attics with thoughtful, code-compliant remodels. Whether you’re adding a home office or a luxurious guest suite, we handle the entire process—from insulation to finishes—with expert craftsmanship.

Serving homeowners in Harrisburg, Annville, Camp Hill, and beyond—contact us today for a free consultation.