Expanding an attic

Question from Matt:

Jake, I have a 1940's Cape, entry into living room (16 x 13), kitchen behind it (12 x 10), breezeway remodeled split dining room and "Florida porch" on right of living room, two bedrooms with bathroom in between on left side of living room. Upstairs is one large "A frame" room above living room,bedrooms, and bath. Here's my question: I want to utilize this upstairs room by bumping the sides out. Where can I find information on this project? What structures things do I need to worry about? Do you know of any websites that can give me ideas? How much is the most simple plan to this idea? Many of the houses in my neighborhood look like they bumped out one or both of the roof for this project so I know if is done. Any help would be appreciated.

Jake's Answer:

Matt,

I would strongly recommend you engage the services of an engineer, an architect or a qualified contractor to help you on this project.  In most cities, the permit process will require a stamped or sealed set of construction documents before they will issue you a permit.  In a project like this you will have to possibly modify your floor joists, the walls, ceiling and roof.  In some cases, when expanding an attic space, you may even have to modify the walls and beams below.  I don’t know of any websites that can provide the type of in depth information you will need.  I would imagine you could find some web sites that provide photos, but not the structural information that will be unique to your home.