I would like to finish my attic but the ceiling is only 5' 7". If the roof was more steep I could easily finish it. Would hiring a professional to replace the old roof trusses be extremely expensive? Any advice would be great. Thanks!

 

Id say yes. A arm and a leg for sure. You would have to have new shingles and all . You would be better to go for a new upstairs walls and a new roof. You would come out better.

ED

 

Check with local Building Inspector regarding any restrictions on building a second story in your neighborhood. If you determine you can add a second story, talk with remodeling contractors who have done this type of work before. Interview a few and ask them to provide addresses of several homes where they have added a second story. Go see the houses. Talk with the people to learn how they handled living in the house during the remodel. Get an estimate of cost/square foot as well as to add a full bathroom.

Some issues to be considered are: Will the current exterior walls support the load of the second story? Is foundation strong enough? How will plumbing connect to existing? Where will staircase go and what will it do to downstairs floor plan? Will you install separate heating and air conditioning? Will you have to install new electric service and panel? Does the contractor know how to minimize sound transmission between two floors? Will you need some attic storage space?