Attic under a hipped roof. Mansard roof - which type to choose. Material parameters for the construction of an attic roof

- This is not a very ordinary design.

Such a structure must not only complete the entire structure of the building and perform protection functions.

But also conducive to a comfortable life in the room located underneath it.

In order for the living space to be suitable for use, it is necessary to understand the essence of the design of such a structure and the nuances of its installation processes.

Such a design has a number of elements that make up a complete roof system.

The structure of the attic roof looks like this:

Roof. Roofing is necessary for providing reliable protection from the influence of atmospheric conditions both the entire house and the entire roof system.
. The supporting part of the attachment system is most often constructed from wooden boards.
Ridge run. The very top of the entire system.
Rafters. Supporting ribs that create rigidity for the structure. They have two varieties - hanging and layered.
Mauerlat. The element is represented by beams that used for fastening the rafter system. The element repeats the location of the perimeter of the house and is fastened to each wall using fasteners.
Diagonal piles. For that, so that the roof structure system has a high level of reliability, the rafters are connected to each other by beams located longitudinally and by vertical posts, which are connected together by diagonal braces or bevels.
Internal supports. An element that is located under each rafter leg and provides it with stability.
Insulation layer. This layer unites the entire roof system into a single whole, while creating reliable sealing, vapor and sound insulation. This layer has its own structure and is multi-layered. All materials that are used to equip this layer are necessary to provide all kinds of properties that ensure comfortable living in the attic.

What components and parts does the attic roof consist of, you will see in this drawing:

Mansard roof design drawing

Roofing pie

Each type of roof has its own individual structure.

It is represented by several layers of different materials, which necessary to protect the attic space from cold air masses and high humidity levels.

The roofing pie of the attic roof includes:

Lathing;
Vapor barrier layer;
Counter grille;
Thermal insulation layer;
Waterproofing;
Ventilation systems;
Roofing material.

Each layer is designed to perform specific functions that are necessary for the proper functioning of the entire roof system.

If you make mistakes during installation or neglect any of the layers, then this may lead to the need to redo the entire structure.

. The simplest type of roof over an attic, but not very popular. Represents one inclined plane, which is supported on load-bearing walls of various heights.
. This kind represented by two slopes, which are located opposite each other.
Broken. This type of roof has other names - half-hip. This type of design allows you to make the attic space optimal. This design has four ramps. It is quite convenient to live in an attic with this type of roof.
Conical. The most complex type of design, represented by a cone. Suitable for buildings which have round or polygonal outlines.

Types of roofs

If we talk about the types of rafter systems, they come in 3 types:

The hanging type of rafters ensures the transfer of load in a horizontal position to load-bearing walls. Such rafters are the basis of the entire system. There is no need for intermediate supports; wooden or metal ties are used to connect the beams.
The layered variety of rafters is used if the load-bearing wall is located in the center of the building or if there are intermediate supports. This type of rafters is installed on external walls, while their middle part is supported by internal walls. Such a structure can only be built if the distance from the load-bearing wall to another is up to 6.5 m.
The hanging and layered version of the rafter system is represented by triangles having a right angle. Additionally, this design is equipped with contractions at the bottom and top of the system. To suspend the ceiling, use the tightening of hanging rafters.

Mansard roof: gable structure of a wooden house

Tilt angle

A very important parameter in roof construction is determining the angle of inclination of the roof. This value is determined not only by the design of the building, the features of the facade, but also by the selected roofing material and local climatic conditions.

If precipitation in the area where the house is located is of great importance, then The roof angle ranges from 45 to 60 degrees.

This slope value will ensure better snow removal from the surface, and, accordingly, a decrease in the load level. In addition to precipitation, this angle parameter protects the roof from icing.

If the house is located in an area where strong winds are a frequent occurrence, then the value of the slope angle should be minimal. Otherwise, the structure may be destroyed due to weather conditions. Under such conditions, variations in this parameter range from 9 to 20 degrees.

However, the most common and optimal roof angle is 20-35 degrees.. This value is suitable for arranging a roof with almost any type of material.

CAREFULLY!

The angle of inclination largely determines the durability and reliability of the structure.

Tilt angle

Installation process

In order to install an attic roof, you must follow a certain sequence of actions:

Initially, the upper beam is attached, which has section parameters of 10x10 or 15x15 cm. Fastening is carried out using nails, metal staples or self-tapping screws. At the same time, the first beam provides the function of a rafter frame.
The following is installation of the Mauerlat, which is necessary to take most of the load. To install it, you will need a board with a thickness of at least 5 cm and a beam with cross-sectional parameters of 5x10 cm. Before laying the board, lay a layer that is necessary to retain moisture and not destroy structural elements. The Mauerlat is attached with nails or staples and additionally tied to the walls using metal wire. The wire is installed at the stage of wall construction.
Next, install the rafters, choosing for this step from 0.6 to 2 m.
The gable rafters are installed first., after which they tighten the level and begin to mount the remaining elements.
After the rafter legs are all installed, provide additional structural reinforcement, connecting the rafters to each other in their upper part.
If the roof length exceeds 7 m, then installing ridge beams. Otherwise, equipping the rafter system with a similar element is not necessary.
Once installed move on to equipping the layers of the roofing pie, having previously installed the sheathing.
The last stage in roof construction is laying roofing.

Installation of sheathing

Installation of rafters

We offer you a photo review of beautiful mansard roofs, in which we will tell you about the types of mansard roofs, the features of their shape and new trends in the architecture of private houses with attics.

Houses with an attic in the French style

The attic got its name in honor of the French architect Francois Mansarou, who in the 17th century was the first to propose the use of under-roof space for living rooms. Therefore, the mansard roof is associated with the architecture of French houses - provincial cottages, Mediterranean chateaus and Alpine chalets. It is interesting that different regions of France have their own special forms of mansard roofs, and both the approach to design and the materials used differ.

Homes in Normandy are as architecturally austere as the climate of this region of France, but the gabled mansard roofs with half-timbered gables and dormers bring a touch of French sophistication to their design.

An interesting roof of complex configuration, an attic over the garage, a large mass of glazing - modern Norman houses are beautiful and functional at the same time.

Unlike the stone architecture of Normandy, Alpine chalets are built of wood, and their gable roof with an attic is usually complemented not only by a window, but also by a balcony.

The interior space of the attic under the chalet roof looks very colorful due to the visible rafters and plank cladding.

A characteristic feature of the attic roofs of alpine houses is long slopes that facilitate snow melting, large windows and fairly spacious balconies.

In the Mediterranean provinces of France, compact chateaus usually have a multi-gable roof with several attics.

French houses with a mansard roof are usually one-story buildings, “flattened” outward rather than upward. With a small area of the house, a garage with an attic is usually provided.

Victorian houses with attics

England is another European country besides France in which the construction of houses with attics has acquired an unprecedented scale. Despite their apparent stiffness, English cottages look very cozy, and this effect is achieved to a greater extent thanks to the beautiful design of mansard roofs with windows.

A characteristic feature of Victorian attic houses is the asymmetrical and slightly curved roof line at the gable, as well as large dormer windows.

Often the British arrange an exit from the attic to the balcony, which utilizes the under-roof space of the terrace roof.

A nice flavor to provincial English houses is given by the color scheme of the facade decoration and wooden shutters of a contrasting color on the attic windows.

A distinctive feature of English houses with an attic is the large slope of the roof slopes and several asymmetrically located gables. The unusualness of this architecture is enhanced by the blue color of the facade decoration in combination with the gray roofing.

A modern interpretation of Victorian architecture - a house with a hip roof and an attic with small balconies.

New trends in the construction of houses with an attic

Despite the established traditions in the construction of houses with attics, architects are always in search of fresh ideas. New technologies and structural materials greatly expand the capabilities of designers and make it possible to implement the most daring and even daring concepts.

An extremely modern trend in construction that came to us from Denmark is attic houses with a hipped roof, lined with the same material as the facades. Moreover, the color of the finish should be as close as possible to black - the color that best absorbs heat.

Another trend from the Nordic countries is a cottage, consisting of several residential volumes in the form of small houses with attics.

Not only in Europe, but also in other countries, the popularity of cottages lined with one material, without the use of special roofing coverings, is growing.

Such houses usually have a small area, so the issue of using the under-roof space and arranging an attic with windows is relevant.

A fashionable trend in European architecture is compact private houses with an attic under a pitched roof. In the photo you see how interesting this option is played out with the help of a dynamic roof line.

The construction of a minimalist cottage under a pitched attic roof is one of the cost-effective options for arranging private housing.

A large number of windows give this modern cottage with a pitched roof an unusual look, but the main thing is the maximum use of the usable area of the attic space.

Western architects offer many unusual solutions, one of them is a private house with an asymmetrical gable roof and an attic.

An effective element of the architecture of a country house with a sloping mansard roof will be the continuous glazing of the pediment and the arrangement of the balcony.

Numerous projects of wooden country and country houses with a large mass of glazing and an attic are another attempt by architects to make housing more eco-friendly and comfortable.

The fully glazed facade of the house with a mansard roof is a bold attempt by German architects to create housing that is as harmonious as possible with the environment.

The desire to make a home energy-saving and environmentally friendly is giving rise to an increasing number of projects with attic roofs equipped with solar panels.

Beautiful mansard roofs made of reeds

The surge of interest in environmentally friendly materials has played a role in the revival of the popularity of reed and thatched roofs in European countries. The most important arguments in favor of reed roofs were their excellent ability to retain precipitation and maintain warmth, naturalness and original appearance.

Natural beige and smoky shades of reed roofs look unusual, but at the same time they naturally blend into the color scheme of the landscape design and organically complement it.

Half-timbered houses with an attic under a roof made of natural material are a traditional type of buildings in Northern Europe.

The reed roofs with an attic and round dormer windows, as if “grown” from the thickness of the roof covering, are unusually beautiful.

Creating an attic roof from reeds is a unique art - in the photo you can see how delicately the decor of the attic dormer window is carved.

The plasticity of reed stems allows you to create roofs of complex shapes, especially if the house has an attic floor with several rooms.

Reed and reed are ideal materials for forming rounded roofs. Such a mushroom-shaped roof with miniature attic windows will become a colorful element of the architecture of a private house made of timber or logs.

Only houses of provincial architecture are perfectly combined with a reed roof; cottages of modern design can also be successfully equipped with such a roof. In the photo you see a non-trivial solution - the roof covering goes from the roof to the facades of the building, due to which the house looks more comfortable and, importantly, warmer.

The undeniable “advantages” of reed roofs include their ability to maintain a stable temperature inside the house both in hot and cold weather and at the same time provide sufficient ventilation in the attic and other rooms. A significant “minus” of reed roofing is its high flammability, but modern fire-retardant impregnations can improve its fire-fighting properties. In addition, the arrangement of such a roof will cost a considerable amount.

Country cottages with mansard roofs from Ondulin

Unlike tiles, flexible roofing and natural coverings, Ondulin roofs are distinguished by an affordable price with a fairly high safety margin. Europeans have long appreciated the practicality of Euro slate and are actively using it for arranging mansard-type roofs.

A palette of natural colors, as close as possible to natural shades, allows you to organically fit a country house into any landscape.

Hip roofs from Ondulin harmoniously emphasize the architectural features of a house in any style, including classical.

If there is a high wind load in your region, a hipped mansard roof coated with Ondulin will be optimal.

Beautiful mansard roofs of private houses: photos, design examples

Photo examples of attic roofs of private houses. Types of design. Interesting shapes and finishing options.

Cozy house with an attic: projects, photos of interiors and useful tips

Buildings with an attic floor are a practical and very attractive idea for an individual plot. The costs of arranging a residential attic are less than the construction of a full floor; additional square meters will appear in the house. For a summer cottage, the best option is a house with an attic. Projects, photos of successful interiors and recommendations from experienced builders are in our material.

Even a small attic will transform the facade of the house and make it unique

Definition of attic

The attic refers to the living space under the roof. The roof for a residential attic must have a double slope, such that the height of the attic space is no less than human height at the highest point.

The optimal height is two meters and twenty centimeters

The outer wall of a residential attic consists of two planes: inclined and vertical. The vertical part is built from the main material of the house, the inclined part consists of blood rafters and internal lining.

The ratio of the vertical and inclined part depends on the project

When building a private house, many owners think about the question: should they prefer a full floor or an attic?

Advantages and disadvantages of country houses with an attic: projects with a full floor or a residential attic?

The main argument in favor of the attic floor is always the low cost of its arrangement. Is this really true? The cost reduction is due to the use of a frame roof structure. In practice, the larger the roof and, accordingly, the larger the frame area for cladding, the more profitable the attic.

But you should remember, no matter how spacious the attic is, it in any case occupies less usable space than the actual floor. It turns out that in order to make the attic room suitable for living, it is necessary to provide such an area of the first floor so that it is at least twice as large as the attic space.

Another point that complicates the task: a residential attic requires the installation of a complex roof configuration and the installation of special attic windows

In order to create a normal microclimate in the attic room, it is necessary to provide a ventilation system with forced air supply. All these costs will create an additional burden during construction. And in reality the savings will not be that significant.

Supporters of attic construction note that houses with such “curly” roofs look attractive. And the designers add that the arrangement of a residential attic has many original solutions.

One such solution, for example, is installing large windows directly in the sloping part of the roof. If you place a bedroom in such a room, at night you can admire the starry sky without getting out of bed

Thrifty owners do not like it when something goes to waste. Including the attic space. Some people turn it into a dumping ground for unnecessary things. But in fact, it can accommodate a full-fledged office, workshop, bedroom or even a children's room.

Opponents of such diligence remind us that active use of the space under the roof worsens the condition of the roof structure and significantly complicates its repair.

For your information! Psychologists warn that low attic ceilings make a person feel in a confined space, adversely affecting his psyche. Particularly impressionable people may even feel bouts of suffocation due to low ceilings and sloping walls. It is worth thinking about this fact when planning a children's room in the attic.

Supporters of a full second floor make the following comparison:

Despite all these disputes and disagreements, projects of country houses with an attic and a veranda or garage are very popular. This is not surprising, because frame construction, which is gaining immense popularity, offers many options for just such buildings, with a large usable area and a variety of layouts. Let's look at photo projects of houses with attics in more detail.

Projects of country houses for 6 acres. Photo examples of beautiful and compact country houses with recommendations for choosing a layout are in a separate publication on our portal.

Tips for building a one-story house with an attic: photos of original ideas

Owners of small country cottages are most often concerned with arranging a residential attic. Before deciding on such a project, ask to stay with your friends who own a similar design. What if you suddenly feel an attack of claustrophobia or, on the contrary, find yourself impressed by attic windows through which you can see the clouds?

If you doubt the advisability of organizing living rooms in this place, think about alternative options

Here, if desired, you can place a wardrobe, a creative workshop, a boiler room, and a gym.

Here are the options for organizing the attic space:

The project of a one-story house with a garage and an attic is in particular demand. This layout is extremely convenient. This option will be especially appreciated by residents of the northern regions, who know what it’s like to warm up a car on a frosty day. When the garage is under the same roof as the house, even if it does not have central heating, the temperature will be significantly higher than outside. And the car itself will be reliably protected from all the vagaries of the weather.

When constructing such a project, it is necessary to provide all safety measures: the presence of a vestibule and a high-quality ventilation system

What do house designs with an attic made of foam blocks look like?

Projects of houses with an attic made of foam blocks, photos of which are presented to you, are very popular among developers of individual housing. The reasons for this demand are that houses made of this material are very functional and look solid and luxurious. The cost of constructing such a structure is lower than the cost of building a brick house.

Due to the attic floor, the usable area of the house increases significantly and at the same time the costs are generally lower than for the construction of a full second floor from foam blocks

Advantages of foam block structures:

the ideal geometric shapes of the blocks allow you to create strong and even masonry with minimal seams of a few millimeters;
the size of the blocks exceeds the size of the brick, so construction will be carried out at an accelerated pace;
foamed concrete has high energy saving rates and does not require additional insulation;
the material does not emit compounds toxic to the human body;
foam concrete is not flammable, does not support the development of mold and is not afraid of insects;
the blocks do not deform from exposure to moisture or temperature changes;
the material has a long service life.

The technology for constructing structures with an attic has some distinctive features. First of all, the attic frame is made of carefully dried wood.

High-quality wood material does not deform during operation

It is important to choose the right insulation. Mineral wool or basalt slabs are suitable for attics. These insulation materials have proven themselves well in practice.

The roof is sheathed externally and internally with different materials. Metal tiles or soft roofing are laid outside. The inside of the frame is sheathed with plywood or OSB boards.

For your information! Standard projects are very convenient and cost less than individual ones. But within the framework of individual design, many nuances can be provided for: for example, arranging comfortable stairs for the elderly and disabled, or placing a winter garden or study in the attic.

Typical projects rarely include decorative treatment of the facade.

The developer himself decides how to decorate the walls.

Foam blocks can simply be painted, plastered or used for finishing facade materials: tiles, siding, stone.

The best designs of houses with an attic: photos with drawings

A good residential building design must take into account many factors:

climate of the area in which construction will take place;
features of the soil and landscape of the site;
combination of the decoration of the house with the surrounding buildings and terrain;
organizing the most comfortable living conditions for all family members, taking into account their age and individual needs.

The finished project of a house with an attic is developed by professional architects with the participation of specialized specialists. It is important to think through not only the location of the rooms, but also the features of the placement of utility networks.

For a summer cottage, projects of a small area, 36 - 40 square meters, are suitable. This space is quite enough to accommodate a kitchen and a spacious living room on the ground floor and two compact bedrooms or a study in the attic. Houses with an area of over 60 square meters accommodate a spacious living room, bedroom and kitchen on the ground floor and rooms on the second.

An example of a house project with an area of 70 square meters

For large houses, it would be ideal to build a terrace that can be accessed from the attic floor. From the top you will have a magnificent view of nature.

Here you can relax comfortably and use the covered terrace for family dinners or friendly gatherings

Country house with attic: 6x6 layout

Planning a house with a minimum area is not easy. The project of a 6x6 country house with an attic is the best choice. In this case, you have not 36, but at least 50 square meters of usable area.

Example of a 6x6 house layout

If the dacha is needed only for seasonal visits, such space is quite enough for a small family. Over time, an extension can be made to the house if the number of family members increases. What should be considered in the design of a house with a 6x6 attic:

maximum use of every centimeter of space;
the number of people visiting the house at the same time;
age of family members;
frequency of visits to the summer cottage.

When planning a 6 by 6 house with an attic, it is important to use all the space to maximum advantage. Traditionally, a spacious living room is located in the center, with access to a bathroom and kitchen. All these rooms will completely occupy the first floor. To avoid crowding, select compact furniture.

The optimal choice would be transformable items that can easily turn into sleeping places. If guests at your dacha are late, it won’t be difficult to accommodate them for the night.

The kitchen should have two entrances: from the room and from the yard. Setting a table in a summer gazebo will be greatly simplified, and it will be easier to cook on a hot day by opening the exit to the garden wide open.

The bedrooms in this option are located in the attic. Here you can make two full bedrooms for the owners and children.

Four square meters is enough for a bathroom. If the dacha is visited only in the summer, a summer shower can be organized in the yard. Those who like to take a steam bath set up a bathhouse on the site. If you do not provide a shower or bath in the house, you can leave three square meters for the toilet. The washing machine is installed in the kitchen.

Frame houses with an attic (6x6 projects) do not provide internal stairs. They are placed outside. This technique also allows you to significantly save space. To store things in the house, compact mezzanines should be provided.

Here is an approximate plan of a house with a 6 by 6 attic:

Specifics of the layout of 9 by 9 houses with an attic: photos of successful solutions

A house with a total area of eighty square meters is a popular project. The builders note that this project has an optimal balance between cost and living comfort. The classic layout includes a bedroom, kitchen, living room and bathroom on the ground floor and two or three more rooms in the attic. They can be used as additional bedrooms or used as an office, creative workshop and spacious wardrobe.

An example of a classic 9x9 house layout

Another option for the arrangement of rooms is in the layout of an 8 by 10 house with an attic. Photo example of such a layout:

House layout 8x10

What you should know about the layout of a 10 by 10 house with an attic: photos of the best ideas

One hundred square meters on the first floor and another seventy on the second - a large family can permanently live in such a house. There is room here for separate rooms for children, a bedroom for parents, a study, a spacious living room and a kitchen. From the outside the house does not look huge. Projects of a 10x10 house with a foam block attic impress with its compact placement on the site. But this is precisely the case when external impressions are deceiving.

There is enough space here not only to place bathrooms on each floor, but even to organize a sauna or bathhouse right in the house. A convenient staircase with a wide passage will allow you to easily lift bulky furniture.

The space under the stairs should be used for storing things

In such a house there is usually a separate room for the boiler. If a house made of foam blocks has a basement, the laundry room, heating appliances, and a storage room for storing equipment and household items are located here.

House layout 10x10

Projects of frame houses. In the article we will look in detail at the advantages of these structures, types of technologies, average construction prices, original designs, useful tips and much more.

Examples of interior design of houses with an attic inside: photo

Even a small attic can be furnished so that everything you need can fit in it. The inclined planes of the ceilings partially hide the total area, but you can use them to stylishly decorate the room.

If you paint the rafters in contrasting colors, they will become a stylish interior detail.

Projects of small houses with an attic usually involve placing a bedroom on the second floor. In the country house version, it is logical to use natural wood trim.

To prevent the room from seeming dark, place light-colored furniture and use light-colored accessories and textiles

If the attic occupies a significant area, the task is simplified. Niches between the rafters can be used as zoning elements. In one - place a bed, in the other - a work desk by the window or a sofa for relaxing. The issue of placing a children's room on the attic floor should be approached especially carefully.

Let us remind you that sloping ceilings can cause discomfort in a child. This factor should be compensated as much as possible through the skillful use of colors and materials.

If there will be a study in the attic, it is important to think about the lighting.

Maximum natural light and comfortable furniture will be an additional stimulus for creativity.

Another idea for planning a house with an attic (photo below) is the placement of a wardrobe. Here you can build compact and convenient storage systems.

Dressing room in the attic

House with an attic: photos, projects and main conclusions

So, we examined in detail all the features of the design with an attic floor. What are their advantages? The attic can be equipped after the first floor has been built and occupied. When planning construction, simply provide a roof of the required shape. This could be a foundation for the future.

The attic floor can be added at any time

The use of high-quality materials and proven insulation is the key to success. The attic floor will increase the usable area of the house by at least one and a half times. Here you can place rooms with different purposes. Agree, it is better to use this space usefully than to turn it into a dusty attic!

Construction project with a mansard roof: features of the device, design, interior

Any person who wants to optimize the space in their home will certainly use the attic space for some purpose. Of course, so much space created due to the design features of the roof should not be wasted. That is why mansard roof projects have been and will always be in demand.

Distinctive features and advantages of attics

First, we should define what exactly we call an attic: a room in the attic area, the facade of which is formed by the surface of a pitched roof. This part of the building is very attractive due to the large amount of light and air. In addition, the attic gives the house a finished, beautiful look.

A project with an attic floor is the most profitable and economical if you want to get additional living space without resorting to unnecessary costs. Also, the construction time for an attic is much shorter than a full floor.

With the help of attic floors, you can increase the living space of your home without moving out of it. That is, the operation of the building does not stop even during the active stage of construction.

With a competent approach to arrangement, the attic can significantly reduce the heat loss of the building as a whole.

Modern building codes require that the intersection of the roof and the facade be located at least 1.5 meters from the floor level of the attic floor. If this condition is not met, then the room can officially be called only an attic, but not an attic.

Projects of houses with a mansard roof make it possible to increase the building density, which is important for areas with a limited amount of land allocated for residential areas.

Roof type and attic arrangement

The shape of the attic itself usually depends on the type of roof. Attic floors are triangular, broken, with an asymmetrical shape; can be located both above the entire house and over part of it.

Main types of roofs:

Single-pitch. The simplest roofing option. Such a roof is made in the form of an inclined plane fixed on the load-bearing walls. In this case, attics are installed very rarely.
Gable (double slope). Easy to install and very reliable. The roof has two slopes directed in opposite directions. It is on such roofs that attics are most often made
Broken. It is a subspecies of a gable roof. It is used most often in small buildings, well suited for arranging an attic.
Hip and half-hip. Subtypes of hipped roofs. Although broken lines are not as expressive as the classic gable silhouette, attic floors do not suffer from this, but only benefit.
Dome, pyramidal, conical. Used for structures with rounded, polygonal outlines. Building an attic in this case will be very problematic, but still possible.

Types of mansard roof designs

The main types of attics are as follows:

single-level with a gable or sloping roof;
single-level with installation of remote consoles;
two-level with supports of mixed type.

When choosing the type of roof, consider the intensity of the load that will affect the roofing.

If we talk about the style of roof finishing, then it’s up to you, there are no restrictions. The main thing is that the choice does not contradict the operational requirements.

The design of a triangular attic roof with a rectilinear outline is the easiest to construct.

Attic roof installation

Attics, in relation to the walls, can be located in alignment or cross their outer boundaries. The outer walls of the attic floors can be insulated either completely or without going beyond the boundaries of the heated premises. The choice of an architectural system in the form of an attic involves the use of lightweight structures and materials.

When designing an attic, consider the following points:

the design diagram, material for enclosing structures, parts are determined taking into account the architectural parameters of the building as a whole;
the shape and dimensions of the premises are important, therefore the choice of translucent fences (vertical, inclined windows) and their installation should take into account the interior and appearance of the building;
the choice of attic plan option must be made based on the entire layout of the building;
attics equipped with a steeply pitched roof require careful selection of roofing material, thermal insulation, waterproofing and sealing.

In the under-rafter space, sidewalls inevitably form that are unsuitable for full-fledged housing. They appear when installing vertical walls. With proper design, these areas can be used for different needs (pantry, built-in wardrobes, etc.).

The width of the building for the installation of an attic must be more than 4.5 m. In addition, the area of the attic floor cannot be less than 7 m2, and the height/floor area ratio is 1:2.

Attics with a broken slope are suitable if its dimensions do not fit into the triangular shape. Thanks to this technique, the area of the sidewalls is reduced. The attic space can be used most optimally. Unfortunately, the installation diagram of a sloping roof is much more complicated, and its construction is more expensive. If the required proportions of the house are observed, the height of the attic floor premises with a sloping roof is noticeably lower. In addition, useful attic space is lost under the sloping roof.

Houses with a middle load-bearing wall also use a mansard roof truss system. The drawings are given below. The lower chord, supported at the center of the load, is often made lighter. The ceiling height of attic residential premises must be at least 2.5 m, but this may also include a part of the room with a lower height. The area of the zone with a lower height is subject to strict regulation. It is worth considering that the greater the slope of the roof slopes, the more spacious the under-roof space. Accordingly, with a slope of 30 degrees, the minimum height is approximately 1.2 m, with a slope of 45-60 degrees - 0.8 m, more than 60 - is no longer standardized. The width of the room must be at least 2.4 m.

The optimal angle of inclination of the rafters should be in the range from 45 to 60 degrees. If the roof has a slope of 45 degrees, use a conventional rafter system. In this case, the ceilings in the attic floor are sloping. If the project provides for a roof with a slope of 60 degrees, long beams and boards are used as rafters. Because of this, the amount of material needed increases sharply.

Attic construction

The simplest roofing arrangement for an attic roof comes down to creating the following layers:

Directly protects the building from external conditions. Its purchase should be approached with special care. There is a wide range of such materials on the market: metal tiles, bitumen shingles, slate, corrugated sheets, etc. In order not to make a mistake in your choice, take into account all possible factors (size of the house, climate, material capabilities);

Necessary to protect the internal insulation and the entire rafter system. Its choice directly depends on the type and properties of the insulation used;

There is no way to do without a layer of waterproofing material, because it is thanks to it that moisture does not penetrate into the house.

These are already parts of the roof itself. It is due to them that the roof is held together. Made from wooden beams. The rafters distribute the load from the weight of the roof along the walls;

All of the above levels are required when building a house with such an addition as a mansard roof. The drawings are shown on our website. You can familiarize yourself with them to better understand the installation.

Ventilation gap for roof

There is one nuance in the design of the attic - the need for a ventilation gap. It is best to make two of them: one - directly above the insulation, the second - immediately under the roofing. With the help of the first, the formed steam will escape, which somehow penetrated the insulation layer, and thanks to the other, the moisture that has accumulated under the roofing materials will evaporate. The air should come from the base of the roof and leave through the roof in the ridge area.

When constructing an attic, remember that the structure should be as light as possible. Wood or lightweight metal profiles should be used. Avoid heavy materials such as stone, concrete, etc.

The design of a roof with an attic must be carefully thought out and drawn up by professionals, since the slightest miscalculation can lead to the destruction of the structure.

Also, do not forget that wooden rafters have a certain margin of safety, and it is not advisable to use intermediate posts. To cope with this problem, the following most common techniques are used: construction of wooden or metal-wood trusses.

All wooden elements of the rafter roof must be made of excellent quality wood with a permissible humidity of no more than 22%, treated with antiseptic substances and fire retardants.

Floors in the attic floor are made using standard technologies used to create floor coverings on interfloor ceilings. Here 2 layers will be needed: vapor barrier and insulation. Thanks to them, not only a comfortable temperature regime in the house will be provided, but also sound insulation.

Briefly about roof trusses

Wooden trusses are usually made of round timber, beams, and boards. To connect the elements of wooden rafters, the following are used: notches, bolts, nails, toothed ring keys.

Recently, along with purely wooden trusses for spans over 16 m, trusses with iron posts have become widespread.

Assembling a wooden truss requires significant labor costs. Metal-wood trusses are easier to install. In such structures, all stretched elements and the lower belt are made of metal, making them very easy to install in production.

Dormer windows

The requirements for skylights are often higher than for ordinary windows. This is explained by the fact that it is installed in the roof slope, at an angle, and therefore is subject to a more intense influence of negative factors than the vertical one we are accustomed to.

The main feature of attic windows is large access to light and heat. With the help of which you can create light compositions in rooms. Such windows allow you to maximize the time of access of sunlight to the house. That is why it is advisable to equip libraries, children's rooms, etc. in the attic. With the help of skylights, far corners are additionally illuminated.

When constructing an attic, the following translucent structures are used: facade end windows, domers, stained glass, combined systems, special attic windows. Projects of houses with a mansard roof are very diverse in the use of such structures.

Roof window

A large load is placed on dormer windows, because they are full-fledged elements of the roof, and therefore are exposed to the same influences: strong wind, rain, hail, UV radiation, snow, etc. Under such conditions, the window frame must maintain sufficient tightness, thermophysical parameters, and rigidity , dimensional accuracy.

The traditional frame material is wood-laminated laminated timber. This material ensures long-term operation of the structure; it is not afraid of temperature changes and humidity. Recently, plastic elements have become increasingly used. Common windows made of PVC profile. Less popular are frames made of warm aluminum profiles supplemented with plastic inserts.

The window frame protects the glass and removes precipitation from the surface. The frames are made of aluminum coated with special light-resistant paints; from copper. Visually, the flashing is almost invisible, since its sides are partially hidden under the roofing material. Using specialized frames, windows are combined into groups: horizontal, vertical or combined.

The translucent element should have increased strength, but it should not be very heavy. Most often, single-chamber double-glazed windows are installed. For additional safety, glass is tempered in factories in a special way. Glass with low-emission heat-reflecting coating or double-layer impact-resistant glass can also be built-in. Some double-glazed windows are filled with inert gas, due to which the heat-saving characteristics of the structure are increased.

The flashings of dormer windows immediately take into account hydro- and vapor barrier, which makes work easier, improves the quality of installation, and ensures a hermetically sealed joint between the window and the roof.

Opening systems for roof windows are varied: hinged, combined, axially rotating, etc. The choice depends only on your preferences and capabilities. One condition is that it is desirable to have a rotating mechanism.

Roof windows must have ventilation. In some models it consists of ventilation valves, in others it is a special device with a filter and an anti-condensation system.

Basic rules for choosing a roof window:

First of all, determine the slope of the roof, the distance between the rafters, and the area of the illuminated room. The lower the roof slope, the longer the window should be.
1:10 – this is how the area of the window should correlate with the area of the floor.
The best window height is approximately 1.1 - 1.3 m from the floor.
Consider the functional purpose of the attic floor.
The roof window must be combined with the roofing material.

A little about the interior of attic rooms

Projects of houses with a mansard roof are very diverse and different from each other. But, in any case, they fit certain canons of interior design.

The first and most important rule: take into account the height of the ceilings in the room. If the height is less than 1.6 m, it will be problematic to use it for living.

The second point: do not clutter the attic rooms under any circumstances, and make the design light. Otherwise, the room will create a depressing impression. In addition, the predominance of light and bright colors will visually increase the space. Use local lighting in the attic. This will add romance.

And the third rule: maintain a consistent style. Furniture and all materials used in decoration should be similar in color.

Use as many wooden elements as possible. This will increase the level of comfort in the room and also provide excellent sound insulation.

The attic roof project for a private house is an excellent choice for a large family. Children will especially enjoy living in a room in the attic. In addition, you can arrange a cozy workshop under the roof.

Attic roof projects: drawings of the attic rafter system diagram

Typical options and designs of mansard roofs. The main rules for designing an attic floor. Drawings of the attic rafter system diagram.

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The attic design of the attic allows you not only to increase the living space of the house, but also to make the structure unusual and beautiful. Moreover, a building with this type of roof can be made in almost any style. The mansard type roof, the design options of which can be very different, is found both in urban areas and in rural areas. Let's look at how to create such a design yourself, and find out what its features are.

Mansard roof - options

This roof has a special slope design, usually consisting of a flat upper part and a steeper lower part. Thanks to this shape, a fairly spacious room appears inside, which can be used as an attic or even turn into a very cozy living room.

The history of attics began in the 17th century, such a roof design was invented by the architect Francois Mansart - it was a derivative of his name that such a roof was named. But this Frenchman was far from the first to implement the idea of economical use of the attic floor of the house. The mansard roof was first built by Pierre Lescot, also a Frenchman, who worked on the construction of such famous buildings as the Louvre and Notre-Dame de Paris.

Note! In the 19th century, poor people usually lived on attic floors, but now this floor can appear in the housing of fairly wealthy people.

Nowadays, attics are quite often built during the construction of country houses or small two-story cottages, but the idea can well be implemented when creating other types of buildings. The attic has a number of advantages:

it is cheaper to build a house with an attic than with two full floors and a roof;
foundation costs during the construction of such a structure are also reduced;
an attic can significantly increase the living space of any building;
it gives the house an unusual and beautiful look;
it is not difficult to build the structure, the work can be completed quite quickly;
the attic is always associated with comfort;
a house with an attic is warmer by reducing heat loss through the roof.

But attics also have several disadvantages. This type of attic space has sloping ceilings, which results in low wall heights, making it difficult to choose furniture. Also, the roof must be well installed so as not to leak and not let heat out of the house - you will have to spend money on good hydro- and thermal insulation materials. And building attics is still more difficult than, for example, a regular gable roof.

Design Features

The attic is a universal element. It was used both for ordinary houses and for the construction of country houses; often this type of attic space was chosen even for the construction of palaces. Of course, it could decorate workshops, commercial buildings, etc. And despite the fact that different materials were used for its construction, different styles were chosen, the attic still remained an attic - it has certain design features.

So, this building can have a different geometric shape - triangular, broken, have symmetrical or, conversely, geometrically complex and non-standard slopes. It can be located both across the entire width of the building, and only on one side of it relative to the longitudinal axis.

Prices for timber

Note! If the roof has a broken shape, then the lower part will have very steep slopes with an inclination angle of about 60-70 degrees, and on the top the slopes, on the contrary, will be flat (about 15-30 degrees).

But whatever the attic, it will be located within the walls of the main building. In relation to the external walls, the attic may be slightly wider, but then it rests on the ceiling extensions. If the offset is large, then you will have to install additional supports (for example, columns, walls, etc.).

The height of the attic roof cannot be less than 2.5 m, otherwise it will not be possible to create a spacious room under it. Windows, which also need to be provided here, will be manufactured using special technologies using durable tempered glass and a reliable frame. They will cost several times more than usual. And supporting structures can be made of reinforced concrete, metal or wood. But in the case of the latter, it is important to carefully consider fire safety measures.

The mansard roof is a multi-layer structure, which complicates installation. It can be insulated completely or only in the area where there is a living room - where there is heating. But in any case, the design of the attic implies the presence of rafters, a ridge, the roofing material itself, thermal and waterproofing, and a vapor barrier layer. The interfloor ceiling will serve as the foundation under the roof.

Rafters for an attic roof must have good load-bearing capacity. The cross-section of the materials used will depend on the angle of the roof slope and cannot be less than 5x15 cm at a pitch of 100 cm. If the slope angle is 45 degrees, then a pitch of 140 cm is maintained.

Attention! In areas where it snows frequently and the amount of precipitation is high, it is recommended to install rafters at intervals of no more than 80 cm.

If the attic will be used as a living space, then it is important to consider that in this case there is a risk of large amounts of condensation forming under the roof. Because of this, pockets of mold may appear inside the structure, fungus may develop, etc. The presence of a large amount of moisture will also negatively affect the insulating properties of the material. That is why it is important to follow all the rules for installing an attic roof, and the heat-insulating material must be reliably protected from moisture not only from the outside, but also from the inside, that is, a layer of vapor barrier material is also located on this side.

Important! Don’t forget about creating roof vents that will allow air to circulate quietly inside the roof structure and help remove condensation.

Types of mansard roofs

There are 4 main types of mansard roofs, which differ from each other in their design features. They can be divided into single-level and two-level. The first are the simplest to implement, usually combined with a sloping or gable roof with a slope angle of 35-45 degrees. The second involves the arrangement of two rooms at different levels. A mixed support system is used here.

Note! When building an attic under a gable roof, the height of the walls can be no more than 1.5 m, followed by sloping ceilings. With a broken-shaped roof, the ceiling height along the perimeter of the walls is up to 2.5 m.

When building a house, you can choose one of the types of attics - a single-level attic with a gable roof, a single-level with a sloping roof, with external consoles, or a two-level with a special mixed type of supports.

Table. Main types of attics.

Type	Description
	In this case, the attic has one level and is located under a regular gable roof. The simplest option, the design of which does not require the use of complex calculations. Rainfall with a simple gable roof goes away on its own, there is no need to equip any additional elements.
	In this case, the attic also has one level, but the rafter system is performed differently. It looks like four roof slopes are formed. A much larger room can fit under it, but creating such a roof is more difficult.
	Of the single-level attics, this is the most difficult option. Here the room under the roof is even more spacious. Usually in this case the attic room is shifted to one of the edges of the house. This design allows you to make large vertical windows on one side. The main disadvantages are the complex shape and complexity of construction. But under the edge of such an attic you can make a functional canopy where a terrace, garage or other extension can be located.
	The most difficult option is the attic, since here at least two rooms are arranged under the roof, located at different levels. When designing a house, such a design immediately becomes part of its structure.

The attic roof can also have a balcony. It is created according to the principle of window construction. The main thing is that the load-bearing capacity of the walls allows it to be equipped. By the way, the balcony can also be supported by columns, but in this case it is built above the entrance.

Types of rafters for attics

Rafter trusses can be of two types - and layered. You will have to choose between them depending on the method of attachment to the walls of the house. Hanging ones are simpler and are usually used for houses that do not have a middle load-bearing wall. The rafters rest only on the main walls of the house, without intermediate supports. The width of the span between the walls cannot be large - usually it does not exceed 6 m. If the span is larger (over 9 m), then it will be necessary to install struts and headstocks.

Layered rafters are usually used to create houses with two spans, that is, those that have a load-bearing wall in the middle. In this case, the rafters have three support points - directly this wall, as well as the main ones around the perimeter of the house.

Material for the manufacture of the rafter system

Rafters can be made of metal, reinforced concrete or wood. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages. Wooden rafters are environmentally friendly, they are easy to use, and can be easily adjusted to the desired size. But wooden structures are afraid of excess moisture and are susceptible to the formation of mold and mildew.

Note! Before construction, it is recommended to treat wooden materials with protective compounds that will extend their service life.

Metal and reinforced concrete structures do not need to be coated with such compounds - fungus and mold do not appear on them. Due to this, they are considered more reliable and durable. But the main disadvantage is that, if necessary, it will be difficult to adjust them on site to the required dimensions, and the slightest error in the calculations can lead to the roof being skewed. Also, a craftsman working with reinforced concrete or metal rafters may encounter other difficulties - this is a large mass of products, which forces the use of special equipment even to lift the elements.

Difficulties and features of arranging an attic roof

When designing and constructing an attic roof, a number of design features should be taken into account, based on which a number of operating rules are formed. For example, the Mauerlat must be secured very securely with anchor bolts. It is he who will experience the maximum load, and therefore support the entire roof. It is additionally recommended to wall up the anchors with cement mixture if the main walls of the house are made of stone, brick and other similar materials.

It is also important to remember the correct design and layers of the roof. For example, mansard roofs cannot be covered with metal roofing materials. They get very hot and on the top floor in the summer it will be too hot, there can simply be no talk of any comfortable living. It is not recommended to use roofing felt as a waterproofing material - when heated, it begins to smell specifically. It is best to cover the attic roof with slate or soft tiles. For thermal insulation, it is usually recommended to purchase mineral wool, which is laid with a waterproofing film on both sides.

The useful space under the roof above the first floor can always be used rationally. Why do you need an uninhabited cold attic, when with a reasonable approach it can be turned into a full-fledged living space? The design of the attic will require attention and investment, as a result you get additional space, it can be turned into a bedroom, living room, office or cinema room. An insulated attic will save up to a quarter of the energy that is usually used to heat a house.

Second floor design

Previously, the attic was not intended for living. Later they began to place servants there. Today it has become fashionable to create living rooms under the roof itself.

If the rafter system needs to be reconstructed to equip the attic floor, the services of professionals may be required. When heating, ventilation and electricity are already present, you can think through the interior yourself.

Points to consider when creating the interior of a house with an attic:

Mandatory insulation, the presence of all utilities. In matters of arrangement, you need to be very careful and be technically savvy in their decisions.
It’s good to think about how to use walls, beams, and slopes in the interior of the room.
It is rational to approach vertical windows or those located in skylights, with their help to achieve maximum illumination.
In finishing, use those materials that show the greatest moisture resistance.
Do not get carried away with a large amount of furniture, unnecessary details, accessories, remember the rule: low ceilings require equally low furniture.
Try to use natural finishing materials.
Use the space rationally, in the process of being passionate about design development, and not make it more cramped.

Small attic

The modest size of the room is not an obstacle to creating a stylish interior. Sloping ceilings take up a large share of space. This can always be played up, the volume and area can be increased with the help of successful lighting, maximizing the height and width of window openings, and a harmonious color scheme.

Attic bedroom

Depending on the degree of inclination, the room under the roof is adapted for different purposes. With a low angle of inclination, the attic will be an ideal place to locate a bedroom. Her comfort and romance will only benefit, she will become quieter, warmer, through the windows you can admire the starry sky.

To decorate the space, they choose a traditional style and arrange it in an oriental or aristocratic manner. In any case, first you will have to start from the height of the room, do not chase large parts, and settle on more compact ones. First you will need to arrange the most necessary furniture, and fill the remaining space with other details.

When choosing finishes, they rely on the materials that were used in the design of the house. The bedroom will naturally look eco-style, where there is a lot of wood, classic wallpaper, which will emphasize beauty and comfort. Particular attention is paid to textiles. He will place accents and give a unique look.

What can be done if the ceiling in the room is very low? Even in such a situation, you can equip a cozy bedroom. A “tatami” bed will be the way out, and the entire interior should be designed in the style of oriental minimalism. The ceiling will visually rise if it is in light colors.

Living room in the attic

A cozy living room in the attic can be created with a minimum of effort. The main thing is that the guest room is spacious and solid. A carefully thought-out design can turn even a small room into a reception area for guests.

To visually expand the narrow volume of the attic, you need to strive for light colors in everything: use plastic, transparent glass furniture, and make the walls as light as possible.

The first rule for accessories will be the unity of all parts. Translucent fabrics are best suited for windows. Thick curtains and blinds will look good.

The style of the living room should match your interests, mood, and be in harmony with the entire decoration of the house. Choose from the following areas:

Classic. She is characterized by luxury and grace. You will need high-quality furniture, carpets, and chandeliers. The main decoration of the interior should be the fireplace area. There are no bright colors, everything is orderly.
Modern modern. Functionality, simplicity, practicality. The atmosphere of the room is dominated by warm pastel shades, with dark elements present. All details are subordinated to harmony.
Retro. The situation is typical for the end of the century before last. The living room is furnished with furniture and decorated with paintings from that time. Instead of a fireplace, you can build a cast iron stove or its stylization.
Provence. A popular destination due to its sophistication and romance. The decoration and furniture are subordinated to antiquity. The room is warmed by warm southern tones.
Hi-tech. For modern lovers of creativity. Everything in decoration corresponds to the latest fashion. Lots of chrome and glass parts. Strict forms, monotony, minimalism.

Kitchen and dining room under roof

It’s great if this idea comes to your mind at the stage of laying out the building. Arranging a kitchen will require appropriate communications. Not only light and insulation will be needed, but also gas and water supplies.

A well-thought-out attic interior with a kitchen and dining room can become as comfortable and beautiful as possible; the choice of style, furniture, and taking into account the nuances of the room layout, ceiling heights, and the shape of the floors are important.

Where the ceiling is sloping, place a hob, install a sofa and a table with a sink. Give preference to modular systems, cabinets with inclined walls. The best option is multi-level furniture, preferably on wheels, no massive sets in the classic style. Avant-garde and techno functionality with bright color accents and unusual furniture will be more appropriate.

When designing a kitchen interior, you need to consider the following:

Natural lighting will be best provided by large dormer windows;
It is better to purchase furniture in bright colors, keep the walls and ceiling in pastel colors;
with an appropriate layout, place kitchen furniture against the wall, which is perpendicular to the slope;
the dining table will be good by the window;
the colors of the kitchen and dining room areas should be combined with each other, even better if the contrasts between them are opposite.

The design of the windows on the attic floor, where the kitchen will be located, may dictate a complete lack of decor. The most convenient option would be roller blinds and blinds.

Children's room

“Dead zones”, inconvenient planning – these are the complaints that are usually made in the process of working on the design of the attic floor. In the case of a nursery, sloping walls and corners that are not entirely accessible can, on the contrary, create additional opportunities. Features of the relief of the walls and differences in ceiling heights can be well played out. Highly located windows are safer than traditional ones.

The first thing you need to think about is good insulation, the safety of all materials used, and ease of planning.

The child will enjoy being the sole owner of a separate room, which he can inhabit at his own discretion. The room will be a good observation point away from close parental supervision. It is easy to organize several zones here: for relaxation, games, storage of many toys, things, and creative activities.

For a nursery, it is important to have an abundance of light and bright accents. Unusual furniture will fit well into the interior, colorful textiles on the sleeping places, all kinds of soft floor coverings, and many interesting colorful lamps in different areas of the space.

Office, workshop or library

In a small private house it is always difficult to allocate a separate room for an office or workshop. In the former attic you can organize a cozy area for privacy, reading, and your favorite hobby. You don't need a lot of space, just a few square meters is enough. If there are no restrictions in meters, there will be room for impressive bookshelves, a soft sofa or a fluffy rug with many cozy pillows for relaxation, a rocking chair in a separate corner with a floor lamp.

The attic room is decorated with open shelves or closed racks for books and tools, using all the space to the maximum.

In order not to reduce the space of the attic floor, you should not cover massive wooden beams with plasterboard. This will prevent the already limited space from being narrowed, will give the interior individuality, and the atmosphere of the office with a large amount of equipment and electronics will become warmer.

Bathroom in the attic

The attic floor, due to its specificity, sloping ceiling, walls with different levels, is rarely used for functional purposes. In a large metropolis, the entire apartment may turn out to be attic space. When creating the interior of a country house, utilitarian rooms can also be placed under the roof itself.

There are some nuances here; when drawing up a design project for an attic, not only the size of the room is taken into account, the height of the owners and ergonomic laws are taken into account. The result is a comfortable, practical bathroom; it is better to place it above the kitchen area. This will simplify the operation of water supply and sewerage systems. Most often, a toilet or bathtub is installed close to a sloping wall. If the dimensions of the room are small, then it is better to install a shower stall instead.

Plumbing and furniture should be compact; washbasins built into cabinets, cabinets, and various hanging structures are often used. It is better if the surfaces and doors are made of materials with a light, glossy, mirror surface. Floor tiles are appropriate.

If the room is of impressive size, the walls are decorated in any colors; if it is cramped, they choose a light color scheme, which should visually expand the space. For the same purpose, it is worth abandoning the idea of hiding structures and saving space on this. We decorate them and make an interior accent.

Home cinema

Usually one of the largest rooms on the ground floor combines the functions of a dining room, living room, and kitchen. This is convenient; zoning helps not to infringe on each of the segments.

The current design of an attic room, if there is no urgent need to save useful space, suggests the possibility of planning a full-fledged home theater on the second floor of a summer house or private house. This room contains a large sofa, TV, and a full-wall projector screen. Wires and the speaker system are hidden behind beautiful wall panels, where discs and other paraphernalia can also be conveniently placed.

If you have the resources and a lot of imagination, you can add a bar counter, a refrigerator for drinks, a machine for popcorn, and a coffee maker to the arsenal. If you make the furnishings mobile, the room will be useful for holding dance parties and other public gatherings.

Dressing room under the roof

It is unprofitable to set up a storage system on the ground floors due to the eternal lack of space. Setting up a room under a roof for such purposes, even if it’s a small area and has a specific shape, is a very good solution. Here you can take the things of all family members. With a thoughtful approach, we turn a non-standard layout into a plus.

Asymmetry and all kinds of ceiling bevels will not always allow you to place a store-bought assortment of furniture in the attic area. But you can think about how to use every corner with custom-made cabinets, racks, and shelves.

Closets and niches for long items are installed near the high walls. A wardrobe with sliding doors will fit well near sloping walls. Next to the low wall fragments, you can install low cabinets, benches that are comfortable to sit on, and store seasonal items, shoes and a vacuum cleaner there.

Fireplace room

The attic is a non-standard space. For extraordinary people, heated floors and electric radiators are not entirely suitable for creating an atmosphere of romance and creativity. A fireplace can play both a purely practical role and a purely decorative one.

A traditional wood-burning fireplace is a massive structure. Since the ceiling of the attic floor is unlikely to withstand a half-ton structure, preference is given to compact models with low weight. Facing with heavy stone and ceramics is contraindicated. The most appropriate style is high-tech, steel, glass, cast iron parts, simple shapes without decorative frills.

The design of a fireplace in an attic room is very individual and takes into account the degree of load and the ventilation system. If the floors in the house are wooden, opt for electric models or those that run on biofuel.

Important! If you want to have a fireplace in the attic, provide a place to store solid fuel. A smoke exhaust system is mandatory, but comes with an additional financial burden. When using electric models, you need to choose the most powerful ones. Fan heaters draw a lot of energy, do not meet fire safety requirements, and dry the air excessively.

Ceiling materials and design

When choosing a ceiling finish, take into account all the nuances of its structure; your future comfort depends on it.

The range of materials for work is quite wide. All known design types can be used. Tensile surfaces, made of lining and plasterboard, are suitable, the main thing is to take into account the structure of the roof. Sometimes the design does not allow wiring with lamps to be built in; the best alternative would be to make a false or suspended ceiling.

Tensile coverings are used only when there is a vertical wall. Otherwise, given the small area and close proximity of furnishings, there is a risk of damaging the surface. Tension systems do not weigh down the structure, are good for all roof shapes, and it is easy to cover any communications behind them.

The most common and affordable finishing methods are plasterboard and lining; it is also easier to attach decorative elements to them.

Attics in which the ceiling is covered with wallpaper in light colors with a delicate pattern look very original.

Multi-level plasterboard ceilings with height differences and a large number of unexpected protrusions are spectacular. A properly designed sloping roof significantly adds beauty and originality to the entire interior.

Attic wall decoration

The most popular material here is wood. No others can compare with him. It is distinguished by its unique woody aroma, the microclimate it creates, and serves as additional thermal insulation.

The simplest solution is finishing with clapboard, which has several types of profiles and methods of placement on the surface.

Wooden panels made from solid wood or from the same lining are often used. Budget option - laminated and veneered panels, MDF with wood or bamboo veneer. The interior of an attic with such panels is more suitable for an office or sports room, so it is better to resort to a combination with wallpaper, painting or decorative plaster.

A relatively new material called wooden wallpaper looks very advantageous. Like traditional ones, they are glued to the wall. This wood-look attic decoration is very decorative.

A large drawing and dark color of the walls in the space of a small attic are not entirely appropriate. It is better to cover the walls with white wallpaper. The soft color of the furniture and splashes of bright accessories will enliven the interior.

A very recent innovation in attic finishing is HPL panels, a high-pressure plastic with which you can implement the most effective design solutions.

Among modern technologies, it is worth mentioning the latest “squeak” - draping walls with fabrics. Not all walls are decorated with exquisite textiles, but two or one in the center of the room.

Important! When arranging the attic floor, you need to monitor how accurately the technical requirements for thermal insulation of the ceiling and walls are met. If insulation and ventilation do not meet all standards, there is a risk that the roof and windows will become covered with condensation in cold weather. Dampness and its consequence - fungus - can cause discomfort, illness for household members, and premature damage to furniture.

Floor covering materials

There are always high demands on how the floor in the attic is arranged. This is due to two very important requirements: good heat and sound insulation. Traditional finishing methods do not solve these problems. The construction of not only a dry foundation, but also the installation of a “floating” foundation is intended to satisfy all requests.

For reliable insulation, mineral wool and glass wool are used. Good waterproofing is also very important. The floor covering requires a special base, the role of which is performed by boards made of fir, pine, larch, treated with special antiseptics.

The final cladding can be anything: linoleum, laminate, parquet, chipboard, carpet, depending on the tastes of the owners, their views on the future function and style of the room.

You shouldn’t skimp on flooring, because poor quality materials will crack, fade, and make strange sounds over time. A thick layer of insulating material is required. Carpets will serve as decoration and additional insulation; on the attic floor they are more than appropriate.

Choosing roof windows

One of the main issues when building an attic is to ensure a high level of natural light. Each room should have at least one window, it is better if there are several of them, it is very good when they are not located on the same wall. The width of the windows can be specified, no wider than the distance between the rafters. The length is limited by the top and bottom edges, depending on the slope of the roof.

Modern design

Until quite recently, the windows in the attics were blank, did not open, they simply crashed into the roof. Now double-glazed windows have at least two glasses. The outer glass can be tempered to increase its strength; the inner glass is specially treated so that if it breaks, it does not fall apart into pieces with sharp corners.

Modern frames are capable of rotating in one axis or another, directly in the middle, 2/3 from the edge. Rotating devices operate both manually and using a remote control.

Not only visible, but also hidden from view places in the construction of wooden windows should be varnished, this is a guarantee of protection from moisture.

Make sure that the lower slopes of the window are perpendicular to the floor, and the upper ones are parallel. This will prevent the formation of condensation and promote better lighting.

Artificial lighting

The organization of the light supply system depends on the zoning of the space, how the furniture is located in the room, the number and size of windows, the structural features of the roof and ceiling.

There should be a lot of light in the attic. For this purpose, local lamps are used: sconces, all kinds of floor lamps, portable lamps and rotary, point devices. Ceiling chandeliers of varying degrees of power will not be superfluous.

You can abandon the usual chandelier and install spotlights only in the most used areas. Only spot lighting is allowed in the bedroom. In the living room, where gatherings and events are planned, install general and local lighting fixtures.

To create a romantic ceiling pattern and starry sky effect, fiber optic lighting threads are used. In the attic room, any options for local light are good.

Color solution

Since the attic is a specific room, the color scheme in its design is of no small importance. Light colors are preferred, which is especially important for small interiors under a roof. The general color range must be maintained on all surfaces, including furniture, walls, ceilings, and floors. Finishing materials must also be in harmony with each other and form a single whole.

A space with a deep ceiling needs light and glossy surfaces that reflect light. Visually it will be expanded by the color contrast of the floor and walls. A dark floor and dazzling white walls that have no boundaries with the ceiling will create the illusion of infinity. Ceiling beams that harmonize in color with the floor covering will become an original part of the structure.

When choosing textiles and furniture, you should also give preference to light pastel shades. A small room will become even smaller if you overuse dark colors in the design.

To somehow enliven the interior, add bright touches. Transparent curtains will not block the light, but will add a play of shadows and create the necessary coziness.

The choice of the purpose of the room and the style of its design is always the prerogative of the owner of the house. What to choose depends on his tastes, financial capabilities, and lifestyle.

When people start building a house, they rarely think about the fact that the composition of the family may soon change. What to do if you need additional living space, but expanding your home with extensions is impossible due to the small area of the land? The design of the mansard roof solves the problem of lack of space; it can be installed on a house that is just being rebuilt or can be used to reconstruct an existing roof.

Gable attic

Broken roof with attic

Types of mansard roofs

The group of mansard roofs includes all types of roofing, under the slopes of which you can arrange a living space. According to building codes, an attic is distinguished from an attic by a ceiling height suitable for human habitation and the presence of natural light. The following are suitable for attic installation:

Houses with any type of roof can be equipped with an attic, however, working with a hipped, pitched and asymmetrical roof is more difficult and expensive; it is better to abandon these options in favor of more rational ones - a gable or broken roof.

Types of attic spaces

A heated attic space is a real alternative to the second residential floor of a wooden or brick house. The fact is that increasing the number of floors of a building is associated with significant costs for the capital foundation and the construction of stairs. Different attic configurations are used depending on the available space and the needs of the homeowner:

Single-level. Under the broken or straight slopes of the gable roof there is only one living space. The construction of an attic of this type does not involve an increase in the weight of the roof, so it is suitable for buildings under construction and reconstruction. Even a master without experience can perform calculations and build a drawing of a one-level attic. According to building codes, the ceiling height in a residential area must be 2.5 m or more.
Single-level with remote console. A cantilever-type mansard roof device is placed under an asymmetrical roof. To increase the area of the living space, part of it is moved outside the perimeter of the building. The protruding part of the attic, supported by pillars, is adapted for a shed or garage. The roof of the house with consoles is asymmetrical; the main part of the house is covered by a gable roof, and the console is covered by a single-pitched “patch”. A cantilevered attic is built to install vertical windows for natural light. However, professional architects can create a project and drawings of such complexity, and the complex diagram of the rafter system is not suitable for self-installation.
Two-level. If the roof height exceeds 5 m, then in the attic room you can arrange two rooms located at different levels and connected by a staircase. This type of attic cannot be added to existing houses. Two-level premises are planned at the design stage and taken into account when creating foundation drawings. The relative arrangement of the rafter system is specially developed for the complex, asymmetrical geometry of the roof slopes. The second level of the attic rests on columns, so the reliability of the structure directly depends on the correctness of the calculations and the professionalism of the architect.

Designers can create real masterpieces from cantilever and two-level attics, using the advantages of panoramic lighting, equip a greenhouse, a nursery or a bedroom filled with fresh air and light, however, a simple single-level design is more suitable for self-installation.

Advantages of the attic

Homeowners try to use every opportunity to rationalize construction costs, so they do not miss the opportunity to use the space under the roof of the house. This option for increasing the usable area of the house has the following advantages:

Minimum price 1 sq. m of living space. Due to the fact that the equipment of the attic is not associated with an increase in the cost of constructing the foundation, the cost of each meter in the house is cheaper than when constructing two-story structures.
Rationalization of heating costs. An air pocket between the floor and ceiling of the attic prevents heat generated by heating devices from escaping through the roof. Air does not transfer heat well, so the ground floor of the building will be warmer, which leads to energy savings.
The finished look. The equipment of the attic makes the appearance of the house complete and harmonious, allowing you to equip a balcony, canopy or garage.
Speed of construction. During the construction of an attic in a residential building, it is imperative to stop using the first floor. The speed of installation allows the attic equipment to be completed within a week.
Minimum costs. Experienced builders say that there is no way to get a few square meters cheaper.

To equip an attic room, the length of the end wall of the building must exceed 4.5 m, and the area of the house must be more than 7 square meters. m, the recommended proportion of height to area is ½.

Natural lighting in the attic

The presence of natural light is a prerequisite that must be met in order for an attic space to be considered residential according to building codes. There are two ways to organize it.

When choosing windows for the attic, keep in mind that it should be in harmony with the roofing material, the total area of the windows cannot exceed a third of the surface of the slopes, and the size of the translucent structure directly depends on the angle of inclination.

Ventilation equipment

If you are going to insulate and heat the attic, it must be equipped with a forced ventilation system. The cold under-roof space is ventilated independently using dormer windows. In a well-insulated attic, natural air circulation is hampered, making it stuffy, damp and uncomfortable. To avoid such problems, installation is necessary:

Arrangement of elements of a forced ventilation system on a soft roof

A working forced ventilation system forces air to circulate using convection - the property of warm air rising to the top, making room for cool air taken from the street. This will increase the service life of the rafter system and roofing material, protect against mold and dampness, and also create a pleasant microclimate in the attic.

There are ready-made drawings of standard-sized mansard roofs available for do-it-yourself installation; if you are an inexperienced builder, then it would be safest to focus on these options.

Roofing pie

Tilt angle

Installation process

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Definition of attic

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The best designs of houses with an attic: photos with drawings

Examples of interior design of houses with an attic inside: photo

House with an attic: photos, projects and main conclusions

Construction project with a mansard roof: features of the device, design, interior

Distinctive features and advantages of attics

Roof type and attic arrangement

Types of mansard roof designs

Attic construction

Briefly about roof trusses

Dormer windows

A little about the interior of attic rooms

Design Features

Prices for timber

Types of mansard roofs

Types of rafters for attics

Material for the manufacture of the rafter system

Difficulties and features of arranging an attic roof

Second floor design

Small attic

Attic bedroom

Living room in the attic

Kitchen and dining room under roof

Children's room

Office, workshop or library

Bathroom in the attic

Home cinema

Dressing room under the roof

Fireplace room

Ceiling materials and design

Attic wall decoration

Floor covering materials

Choosing roof windows

Modern design

Artificial lighting

Color solution

Types of mansard roofs

Types of attic spaces

Advantages of the attic

Natural lighting in the attic

Ventilation equipment

Video instructions