Loft Conversions: The Complete Guide

 

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!