Loft conversions/extensions: where do I start from?
Loft conversions /how/what/why .
The Conversion of your empty attic space into a useful room can be the most cost effective way of adding a very significant value to your property and increasing your liveable space – this can be for another bedroom, office, gym or entertainment room for your teenagers. But where should you start from and what do you need to consider? Let us make it easier for you.
Is my loft a useable space for conversion?
You’ll want to start by judging whether your roof space is suitable for a conversion.
Regarding this matter we asked Ben Prifti which is a loft conversion specialist and he came to us with this answers :
“Most lofts can be converted, but to do so there are three main things you need to check.
1. The first and most important is the internal height of the current loft, from the top of the ceiling joist to underneath the ridgeboard in the apex.”
To make it easier. Take a measurement from the bottom of the ridge timber to the top of the ceiling joist. “This measurement is critical and needs to be 2,50 m to suitably convert.”
2. “The second thing to consider is the pitch of the roof. In general the pitch is fine from 30 degrees plus.” The higher the pitch angle, the higher the central head height is likely to be.
3. “The third thing to consider is the footprint of the existing loft space. As a minimum rule of thumb, internal walls should measure 5,50 m side to side inclusive of chimney and 7,50 m front to back. If you are in and around the above as a minimum then you should be able to convert,” says Ben
Why do a loft conversion?
The guardian in an article says: Loft conversion can add a significant amount of money – up to 20% – to the value of a property . A lot of families in United Kingdom choose to convert their loft area as a reason of obtaining more space without having to suffer from the costly and stressful process of moving home. Work taking place in the loft can also be less disruptive than, a major extension to an existing living space.
How will I use the space? This is another question that you might have done to yourself.
Once you have determined your home is suitable for a loft conversation, think about how you would like to use it; maybe a den or playroom for your growing children. or perhaps an extra bedroom with en-suite bathroom. How about a space to chill or study?
Also it could be a multi- purpose room with a combination of uses, such as extra living space which could be a perfect solution for your as guests accommodation. If you are going to include a bathroom, will it be a shower room or will there be space to include a bath? When you are thinking about planning a bathroom in a loft, remember to leave plenty of headroom.
Also think about storage, as built-in space can often be included, especially in the eaves spaces.
Converting a loft requires a lot of knowledge and experience. Unless you are a specialist in the loft conversions sector and you have a team of specialised workers; we wouldn’t recommend you to try build it yourself.
To who should i trust my loft conversion?
To do so there are a few options:
1. Assign an architect/technician or building surveyor. They will prepare planning drawings and designs for your proposal, also obtain all of the necessary Approvals and if required they will also help you find a suitable builder and manage the project for you.
2. Assign a specialist loft conversion company. These kind companies offer a one-stop solution for loft conversions: their design department will prepare the necessary drawings and obtain the necessary approvals and their construction departments will translate the designs into reality. If you looking for one trusted company you can have a look at our Services.
3. Use an experienced builder. Some builders have experience of loft conversions and may well be able to offer you a package similar to the loft conversion companies.
You can also ask friends, neighbours or search online to find a trusted architect, loft conversion company or experienced builder for your loft conversion project. Don’t forget to get three quotes and make sure they visit the site and quote based on accurate measurements. Being prepared and knowing how you want to use the space will be essential to getting a few good quotations.
Apollo Loft Extensions is a loft conversions specialised company and you can request a free quotation today no strings attached.
Another question : Do I need a planning permission and building regulations?
Planning permission in most of the cases is not required, unless you are extending the roof space or exceed specified limits example: any dormer is higher than the current highest part of the roof or you live within a conservation area. It’s best to check with your local planning department to understand what you are allowed to do.
Building regulations apply to loft conversions to ensure, that the structural strength of the new floor is sufficient; the stability of the existing structure is not endangered, there are safely designed stairs to the new floor and reasonable sound insulation exists between the conversion an the rooms below. There are also fire safety regulations with which you may need to comply.
You will also need to consider whether your loft conversion project is subject to; The Party Wall Act 1996 under which you must give adjoining owners notice.
Three types of loft conversion:
Hip to Gable Loft Conversion
Hip to gable or raised gable is a good way to convert a hip-end 1920s -1930s semi detached house property. this sort of loft conversion is usually applied on roofs that has 3 sloping sides
Dormer Loft Conversion
A dormer loft conversion is an extension to the existing roof that projects vertically from a sloping roof, creating additional floor space and headroom within the property. Internally, a dormer has vertical walls and a horizontal ceiling.
Mansard Loft Conversion
Mansard loft conversion space transformations frequently require more development work than different sorts of space changes, however can bring about making a lot of additional living space in your home,