Loft Conversion Ideas, Planning & Advice
Loft conversions are an ideal solution to the need for expansion, without losing outward space like an extension or conservatory.
To help get you started with ideas, here are the basics to any loft conversion and the possible aspects you should start to think about.
Can my loft be converted?
The viability of a loft conversion depends on varying factors, but in most cases there is no obstruction. I will organise all aspects that are required to go ahead with your new conversion, but a few initial guidelines to keep in mind are;
- the rights you own to your property
- your permitted development allowance
- your local councils terms of development
- the height of your existing loft (too low may require a complete roof rebuild)
Do I need to apply for planning permission?
In most cases, this will not be an issue, but it will depend on the type of your accommodation, the surrounding area and your permitted development allowance. If you are unsure, you can contact your local council or book an initial consultation with myself. In the event of requirement, I will be able to sort all neccessary agreements on your behalf, inclusive of the contract price.
Examples of loft conversions
There are two predominant forms of loft conversions; the dormer and the velux.
Velux conversions, appropriately named after the window used in such conversions, makes use of the existing loft space with no external additions or alterations. Typical work involves insulating the roof, inserting Velux windows and reinforcing the floor to accommodate people safely. This has the advantage of significantly less work than a Dormer, and so costs and timescale are smaller too.
Dormer conversions involve extending the roof with vertical projections, to increase the loft space and recreate a more typical room. Dormer conversions will need significantly more work compared to velux conversions, but have the resulting advantage of greater space and, at places, head-height ceilings.
Dormer conversions can be constructed on any side of the roof, either the side, rear or front. Dormer conversions can be as large or small as required. Other smaller dormers, also known as dormer windows, are small extensions to the roof with a pitched roof of its own.
Hip to gable conversions reconstruct a sloping end of a roof into a vertical triangular wall to add volume to the loft, typically to incorporate the new stair case (see roof styles below).
Roof styles
Gable ends are the vertical triangular portions of a roof, most usually found on mid-terrace properties.
Hip ends are different from gable ends, in that they slope from the roof tip to the wall. These are more common in detached properties, as well as bungalows and cottages.