Loft Conversions: A Guide for Beginners
A contemporary loft conversion could potentially increase the value of your home and add much needed space for your family. But it’s a big project to take on, so how do you get started? Our loft conversion guide for beginners will help point you in the right direction to make it seem more manageable.
Is my loft suitable for conversion?
The idea of converting your loft may sound appealing, but not all lofts are suited to the process. First of all check whether you have an allowance for permitted development which means you do not have to seek planning permission to convert the space. Houses that are in a conservation area or are marked as a listed building may find things a little more difficult.
Building regulations state that the loft must have a minimum head height in order to be converted. You must have at least 2.2m of usable space measuring from top of the ceiling joist to the bottom of the ridge timber. If the head height is lower you may still be able to proceed, although this tends to be a more costly option.
An architect or building contractor will be able to help you address all these areas to determine what your next steps should be.
Will a loft conversion increase the value of my home?
Aside from wanting to expand living space, one of the main reasons people invest in a home extension is because they want to increase the value of their home. A Nationwide report previously stated that on average homeowners could expect to see an increase of 20% to the existing value of your home. For example, average Cambridge house prices stood at £513,663 as of July 2021, so a well-planned modern loft conversion could add at least £102,732 to that valuation, making it worth £616,392.
What am I using the loft for?
Once you know if you can convert the loft, you must give thought to what you will use the space for. This will help with planning of the construction, as building a home office or entertainment room will require a different approach to building a new bathroom or bedroom. Headroom is important for any loft conversion and if you have an angled ceiling also consider the amount of actual floor space you will have available to use.
What type of roof and floor do I have?
Changes will be made to both the roof and floor below so you should take a closer look at their design and construction before making any solid plans.
First of all head up to the loft to see what type of roof you have in place. If you have trusses they provide support that runs through the cross-section of the space, while rafters run along the edge of the roof. It is easier to convert a loft with rafters, although it can still be done with trusses as long as additional structural support is put in place.
Think about where you want to put the staircase that will link the existing downstairs space to the converted loft. It will likely take up a fair amount of room, so settle on a space that won’t impact the space you have below too much.
What are the different types of loft conversion?
Dormer loft conversions: Dormer’s are the most common type of conversion and work on most properties with a sloping roof. It extends from the slope of the roof and provides more floor space and headroom.
Mansard loft conversion: Mansard conversions are ideal for most homes, changing the angle of the roof slope to create a flat roof and is better suited to the rear of the property. Planning permission is likely needed for this type of conversion.
Hip-to-gable loft conversion: This is suitable for semi or detached houses only. Internal space is increased by altering the sloping ‘hip’ roof at the side of your home and extending outwards to become a vertical ‘gable’ wall.
Roof light loft conversions: As long as you already have enough roof space, this is the cheapest and most straightforward conversion as the only changes made are the addition of skylight windows, flooring and a staircase.
Who can do a loft conversion?
If you have the space and money to carry out a loft conversion there are few professional options open to you:
Loft conversion company: These companies offer to do everything involved with the conversion, including design, planning permission and construction. However, they can be a more expensive choice.
Independent contractor: You may be able to go direct to a building firm who will offer a similar package to a loft conversion company. The prices can also be quite similar.
Architect: Not only can an architect consult with you directly to prepare building plans, but also help you hire a reliable builder and manage the construction stage on your behalf. This means you get expert advice from start to finish of the project.
Tereyn Architects have experience managing loft conversions in Cambridge and can ensure your dream home extension comes to life. Whether it’s a bathroom, bedroom, office or entertainment room we’ll find the best solution that matches your budget. Call us today on +44 (0)7984 760920 or send us a message here and let us know all about your project.
