How to Maximize Attic Storage

March 8, 2022

Are you looking to add a bit of extra storage space to your custom home design? One way you can do this is with a room truss over your garage. Also known as an attic or an attic truss, a room truss can be a creative way to give you more storage space in your home. Here are some ways to maximize your attic storage space:

1. Consider Temperature-Controlling Your Space

Depending on what you will be storing in your room truss, you may need to consider either insulating your space or another form of temperature control. Will it be things that can withstand various temperatures or will it be items that are more sensitive?

Once you narrow down what you’ll be storing or other ideas for unused attic space, you can decide whether home much insulation you need. If your area is humid, you may need to keep a dehumidifier on hand so moisture doesn’t ruin your belongings. You can also install an attic fan in order to draw moisture out of the space.

2. Pest Proof Your Attic

In order to keep your things, and the rest of your home, safe from pests like bugs or rodents, be sure to ensure ways of keeping them out. Make sure there are no holes for larger animals to enter into the space.

Have a specialist access and examine your space and check for any vulnerabilities or activity. And, be sure to keep any tree limbs or plants trimmed from being too close to any windows or any other opening where bugs or other pests could access the room.

3. Decide on How to Access the Space

If you’re planning on utilizing your storage space frequently, or are planning to use this attic truss as a bedroom, be sure it’s easy to access. You can use a pull-down ladder if you need to conserve space because it folds up into the ceiling.

If you decide to go this route, consider picking a ladder that has handrails. This will make climbing up and down your ladder much safer. Depending on what you will be storing, a ladder might be difficult to maneuver larger objects or boxes.

Another option is an attic staircase. Typically, attic staircases are built into the side of the hallway or room and open up into the attic space or room truss. This option is a good choice if you will hauling and storing large items like furniture in your room truss. It’s also one of the attic bedroom design ideas.

4. Come Up With a Floor Plan

Having an organized floor plan for your storage will help you keep your space organized and clean! This way, you’ll never have to waste time hunting for an item as long as you stick to your layout.

Group items by family member, holidays, or seasons. Keep a copy of your layout in an easy to view area in your attic so finding things is easy for all family members.

5. Add Built-In Elements

An easy way to maximize your space is to have built-in storage spaces. Ask for shelving units or closets to keep your items organized. If you have drawers built-in, this will be a great place to organize smaller objects.

You can also have a pegboard installed. This is a great way to keep any tools or other accessories organized in your room truss.

These are just a few ways to maximize your attic storage space. If you think a room truss is something you want to include in your custom home design, make sure you let your builder know during the design/build process. And, if you’re ready to get started on your own custom home, contact Custom Home Group at 717-284-4090!