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Attic Attack, Pt. 1: Install Knee Walls An attic becomes usable space — with eco-friendly bamboo floors. Check out more value-enhancing home-improvement projects from Sweat Equity. From "Sweat Equity" episode DSEQ-212

Charlie and Julie Buchanan drop more than $20,000 finishing their attic bedroom, and a surprise mid-construction costs them thousands more. The question is whether their dramatic choices help or hurt the home's value.

Projects in this Sweat Equity transformation include:

• installing knee walls
  
• installing windows
  
• installing hardwood floors

Before

After

Before

After

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The newly installed knee-walls define the boundaries of the new attic living space.

With the sub-floor in, the Buchanan's attic is starting to look like a room. Amy and Charlie build knee walls to square off the sloping attic walls, hiding the ductwork and making the room seem taller.

Below is a summary of the basic steps as seen in this Sweat Equity project, as well as a list of materials and tools used and some installation tips.

Materials and tools:

chalk
measuring tape
pencil
utility knife
framing gun
plywood for mock-up
2x4's

	Figure A
	Figure B

Safety Alert: Always wear eye protection and follow proper safety precautions when working with power tools or pneumatic tools.

Installing Knee Walls

Tip: It is a good idea, with this type of project, to create some type of a mock-up (cardboard or plywood) to help visualize the dimensions.

Steps:

• Snap a chalk line along where your wall will go (figure A), checking square before you snap.

• Measure from the chalk line to the stud (figure B). Make marks on the stud where your frame will sit.

• Set your mock 2x4 into place, checking plumb and level as you place it. Mark the slope of the stud on your 2x4.
  

  	Figure C
  	Figure D

• Cut a bottom plate and a top plate to length, and using your 2x4 as a guide, cut studs with the same angle.

• Build your frame on the ground, attaching your studs with a framing gun at 16" on center (figure C).

• Lift your frame into position (figure C) and attach it to your studs using the framing gun.

• Insulate, drywall and paint your room.

RESOURCES :

Resources for Sweat Equity, episode 212:

contractors — Jim and Carson Cressman
3R Services
Website: www.3rservicesdenver.com

bamboo hardwood floors — Sustainable Flooring
Website: www.sustainableflooring.com

Proworks Flooring
Website: www.proworksflooring.com

ArcWest Architects
Website: www.arcwestarchitects.com

Faux by Cynthia
Website: www.fauxbycynthia.com

GUESTS :

Chris Neher
Eco Foam
Website: www.sprayecofoam.com