admin A loft conversion refers to the process of converting an empty attic or loft space into a functional living area. It involves renovating and modifying the existing loft space to create additional rooms or living spaces within a residential property.
It provides an affordable way to add extra living space to a home without the need for an extension or altering the footprint of the house. By utilising the unused loft area, homeowners can maximise the potential of their property and increase its value.
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What Are Common Types of Loft Conversions?
For your information, the specific design and layout of loft conversions in Wandsworth depend on various factors, including the available space, building regulations, and the homeowner’s requirements.
Common types of loft conversions include:
Mansard Conversion
This type of conversion requires more extensive roof alterations, as it involves replacing one or both slopes of the roof with steeper slopes. Mansard conversions often provide a significant amount of additional living space and can be visually appealing.
Dormer Conversion
This is the most popular type of loft conversion, which involves expanding the current roof to make additional headroom and floor space. Dormer windows are added to provide natural light and ventilation.
The types of dormer conversion include the following.
Single Dormer
Often preferred in conservation areas, this type of dormer can be used in pairs to increase space and create symmetry, subject to planning permission.
Side Dormer
Commonly utilised to enhance head height in houses with hipped roofs, allowing convenient access to the loft located beneath the hip.
Full-Width Dormer
A loft conversion option that maximises space and creates a distinctive atmosphere, providing a unique loft area compared to other conversion types.
L-Shape Dormer
Suitable for certain properties, such as Victorian houses with rear extensions, this dormer design offers a significant amount of additional space, complementing the existing architectural features.
Velux Conversion
Also known as a roof light conversion, this involves installing roof windows (such as Velux windows) to bring in natural light and transform the loft into a habitable space. This option is usually more affordable and suitable for lofts with sufficient headroom.
Hip-to-Gable Conversion
This is commonly used for properties with hipped roofs. The hipped end of the roof is converted into a gable end, creating more space within the loft.
What Is the Process of Loft Conversion?
When you get loft conversions services in Milton Keynes, these typically include a range of tasks to transform an attic or loft space into a functional living area. Here are some common things that professional builders do during the loft conversion process:
- Initial consultation to discuss requirements and feasibility
- Design and planning, including architectural services and obtaining necessary permissions
- Structural work, such as reinforcing floors and modifying roofs
- Insulation and soundproofing installations
- Electrical and plumbing work, including rewiring and adding heating systems
- Staircase design and installation
- Window and roof installations for natural light and ventilation
- Joinery and finishing, including doors, storage solutions, and custom cabinetry
- Flooring options and carpentry services
- Final inspections, certifications, and compliance with regulations
Remember that these are general points, and the specific services offered by loft conversion providers may vary. It’s always advisable to consult with professionals to get a comprehensive understanding of the services they offer for your specific project.
What To Consider When Converting the Loft?
Feasibility
Determine if loft conversions are feasible by observing other properties in the same street that have already undergone conversions. Look for flat roofs at the back and skylight windows at the front as indicators.
Cost
Consult with a builder or loft conversion company to get an estimated cost for the entire project. If you don’t own the property yet, you can gather information from proposed plans of similar conversions or by researching already converted properties for sale in the area.
Financial Worth
Assess the potential financial value of the conversion by researching property sale prices in the street, and comparing properties with and without loft conversions.
Utilise online resources like property price databases, estate agent websites, and floor plans to determine the impact on property values.
Head Height and Space
Evaluate if there will be sufficient head height and usable space for the conversion. Study other converted properties in the street, consult with professionals to measure the area or review loft conversion plans available through local Planning websites.
Permission
Understand the permission process based on property ownership. For freehold owners, discuss plans with the local Planning officer and seek agreement in principle from neighbours.
Share of freehold owners should involve other freeholders and neighbours. Leaseholders will need written permission from the freeholder, potentially involving negotiation and fees.
