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Edit: **I have uploaded more photos and videos. I also updated the bird's eye view drawing to include crawl space elements. The dotted lines on the drawing indicate cinder block walls, where exterior walls used to be. And there are 2 piers with 5 2x10's resting on them. House was built in 1954. It has two additions, one on the east and one on the west. We think the wall behind the piano (pictured) or kitchen intersect with the northernmost pier. And there is some kind of beam at the top of the piano wall (probably a 2x10). Attic: You can see that the eastern gable is a basic triangle, whereas part of the western gable has been bumped out. The attic framing is just trusses- no floor joists. Vertical members: 10 ft Next member: 7'8" Next: 6'3" Last: 3'9" Spacing: 24" ** We want to convert our attic into livable space. Right now, we just want to know how feasible it is, so we do not have many design requirements. At this point, we only need information about the structure, not in-depth designs. We will do most of the work ourselves and have many handy/qualified friends and family members. My husband wants to add an extension to the back of the house because a previous owner already did the foundation work for it, and we could finish it for under 100K, but I want to explore the attic option for the purpose of preserving our outdoor space. Our house is a really simple shape, as pictured in the bird's-eye drawing. It's basically a rectangle with about half of it bumped out towards the street. The space I'm interested in working with is the 30x35ft area that I highlighted. Roof section drawing: The trusses are either modified queen or tri-bearing. Max height in the attic is 9ft (interior measurement.) Width of the attic is 30ft (exterior). On the ground floor there are center walls running along the length of the house, which are located almost directly under the roof peak and vertical truss members. Under those center walls are piers (in the crawl space). We like exposed beams, so we are happy to keep some of the vertical members in place and possibly add joining members. It would be really cool to have some of the attic room open to below, but if that makes it really complicated and expensive, then maybe not. Another consideration is moisture. I think we are required to insulate the space, which means more opportunity for moisture issues. We have high humidity and precipitation.
Project ID: 40452800
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Hi, This is Maksim. I completely understand that you want to evaluate the structural feasibility of converting a 30x35ft attic space within your 1954 home into a livable area while preserving your outdoor yard space. Your project requires assessing the load-bearing capacity of existing crawl space piers, continuous center walls, and a truss system—either modified queen or tri-bearing—that currently lacks traditional floor joists. With over 10 years of experience in structural design, load path analysis, and residential additions, I specialize in evaluating existing framing to determine how to safely introduce livable floor loads ($\text{40 psf}$ standard) into older structures. Based on your description, your continuous center walls and crawl space piers provide an excellent foundation for a clean load path, though the existing roof trusses will need to be structurally modified or reinforced to remove web members and accommodate a code-compliant floor system. I will analyze the structural feasibility of your attic conversion, evaluate the potential for an "open to below" feature, and provide robust insulation strategies to prevent moisture issues in your high-humidity climate. I am ready to review your bird's-eye drawing, crawl space elements, and attic dimensions to give you a clear, honest structural roadmap before you begin any physical work. Best Regards
$50 USD in 40 days
5.4
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Hello, I fully understand your needs, as I have previously worked on a project similar to your specifications. I am an experienced architect specializing in 3D design and rendering. I have extensive experience using AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Revit 2025, and I can deliver the required design drawings on time. I would be delighted to work on your project. I have carefully reviewed your project details. If you choose me, your project will be completed quickly and to a high standard. Thank you for your interest.
$50 USD in 40 days
4.4
4.4

Hello, Your project is a smart approach because evaluating the attic first may save significant cost while preserving your outdoor space. Based on your description, the structure already shows several promising signs for a possible attic conversion, especially with the center load-bearing walls and crawl-space piers aligned beneath the roof framing. For this phase, I would focus specifically on structural feasibility rather than full architectural design. The review would include analysis of the existing truss configuration, floor load capacity, roof load transfer, usable headroom, and the practicality of converting the highlighted 30x35 area into livable space. I would also assess: • Which truss members may remain exposed as part of the design • Where reinforcement may be required • Whether an open-to-below feature is structurally practical • Stair access and framing limitations • Potential cost-impact areas before construction begins Because you plan to perform much of the work yourselves, my goal would be to provide realistic, practical recommendations that balance structural safety, buildability, and budget control. The simple roof geometry is a major advantage here, and keeping some structural members visible could help reduce modification complexity while creating a very attractive finished space. Thank you
$50 USD in 40 days
0.0
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Hi, I would like to help you with your Feasibility Study for Tulane Attic Conversion plan for permit. I am an engineer leading a licensed U.S. engineering team with approvals in 30+ states, including AZ, CA, FL, GA, CO, TX, UT, NC, WA, and NY. We can evaluate the feasibility of converting your attic into livable space by reviewing the existing truss system, floor capacity, headroom, and load paths to the center walls and crawl space piers. You’ll receive a clear structural assessment with recommendations on which members can remain exposed, what modifications are required, and a cost-conscious comparison to the rear addition option. This will help you make an informed decision before investing in detailed design. Regards, WhiteHouse Engineering
$50 USD in 40 days
0.0
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As someone who possesses a unique blend of technical and creative skills, I am excited to bring my expertise in Structural Engineering to your project. With more than a decade's worth of experience, I have tackled diverse projects and can assure you of my proficiency in analyzing structural feasibility, a skill that will be paramount in transforming your attic into habitable space. In your project description, you highlighted your interest in using exposed beams and the possibility of retaining some vertical members—an aspect aligning well with my ability to combine functionality and design aesthetics. Moreover, given your concern about moisture issues and the need for insulation, my experience with building regulations and codes will ensure that not only are these addressed but thoroughly optimized for your unique locality conditions. Lastly, while you've outlined a budgetary constraint, my track record reflects an efficient use of resources without compromising on quality. I understand the value of preserving outdoor space as much as feasible while maximizing interior living areas. With all these elements combined—my deep understanding of structural design, commitment to budget-friendly yet beautiful conversion solutions—I strongly believe in our collaboration in turning your attic vision into a remarkable reality!
$50 USD in 40 days
0.0
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Hi there, As an engineer with a diverse skillset, including expertise in construction and structural engineering, I am uniquely positioned to conduct a comprehensive feasibility study for your Tulane attic conversion project. My background in architecture and civil engineering also equips me with the knowledge to analyze your existing structure and identify cost-effective ways to integrate into it. Moisture is a significant concern for any attic conversion, especially when you're dealing with high humidity and precipitation as you mentioned. My thorough understanding of building materials and insulation techniques will ensure that we address these challenges proactively during this conversion. Plus, my proficiency in using design software like Revit and ArchiCAD can provide detailed plans that would be critical down the line when you start executing the project.
$50 USD in 40 days
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