Loft conversions are incredibly
popular home renovation projects. Converting your loft into a bedroom or
another room that is used as a living space rather than a simple storage
solution has many benefits. However, it can be difficult for you to know where
you should start when planning a loft conversion. In this guide, we will
explore how you can carry out your own loft conversion and everything that you
need to know.
Is My Loft Convertible?
The first thing that you will
need to do is work out if your loft is a suitable space for a conversion
project. Potential limitations to your planned project include the roof space
not being tall enough, or stipulations in your home insurance, mortgage
agreement, and/or local council contract. If you are unsure of your legal or
contractual rights for renovation projects, it can be useful for you to consult a
mortgage advisor and/or hire a surveyor or
an architect to take a look at your loft. There are also some checks that you
may be able to do yourself. You can measure the height of your loft space
yourself with a simple tape measure to check if it is the minimum required
height of 2.2m that is required for a loft conversion.
The type of roof that you have
will also be a factor. If your loft has trusses (vertical supports for the
roof) rather than rafters (horizontal supports) it will usually be more
difficult and expensive to convert the loft but may still be possible. The
flooring is also important – you will need to factor in where a staircase will
go if you plan on replacing the ladder with stairs!
What Loft Conversion Options Are Available?
One of the most typical loft
conversion choices is a flat rooflight conversion, as this is a relatively cheap
and is simple in comparison to other procedures. A roof light conversion
includes the addition of roof lights, the laying down of carpet or laminate flooring, and usually a
staircase.
A dormer conversion is
more complex and costly but adds a significant amount of living space to the
loft. A dormer conversion involves the addition of a box-shaped area to the
roof that opens into the loft space, adding headspace and floor space.
A hip-to-gable conversion
transforms a sloping roof to a vertical wall and is more expensive yet provides
even more space than a dormer conversion. A mansard conversion changes the
angle of your roof’s slope along the entire length of the roof, to provide a
significant increase in space. Mansard conversions are the priciest yet most
transformative type of loft conversion.
Which of these conversion
options is available to you is affected not just by your budget but also by the
type of house you have – detached, semi-detached, terraced, etc.
How Can I Arrange a Loft Conversion?
Usually, loft conversions
are included in your standard permitted development rights. However, it is
usually best to check with your local council and apply for planning permission if needed. You should always notify your home
insurance company of these plans, as they are likely to increase the value of
your house.
You may also want to apply
for renovations insurance too in case of any issues with the building work.
Once these have been taken care of, you should research building companies to
see which is the most reputable and best to entrust with your conversion
project!
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