Things To Consider Before Deciding on a Loft Conversion
Extra space is always valuable in a home. Attics, for example, make great storage spaces for things that are needed during seasonal times of the year (ex: Christmas, Halloween, etc.).
However, there is one better way to repurpose these empty spaces: loft conversions. This is the process of turning an empty or unused room into a living space of your choice—ranging from guest rooms to entertainment rooms and libraries. If you’ve always wanted to extend your property, a loft conversion is a sensible choice.
However, it can turn out to be pretty expensive, and what you gain in extra living space is also what you lose in storage. Here are some things to think about before going full speed ahead on your new loft conversion:
1. Reasons for Adding a Loft Conversion
Apart from the ease of adding new living space and transforming an empty part of your house into the room of your dreams, loft conversions are also cost-effective ways to increase your property’s value, as it achieve a home extension without having to build a new structure from the ground up.
2. Types of Properties for Loft Conversions
Fortunately, most properties can have a loft conversion. Homes like mid-terraced houses, bungalows, and flats are especially suited for such improvements. As long as your property has ample space, there’s a way to develop a great new living area to your liking.
3. Sufficient Space for the Conversion
There are no hard and fast rules; sufficient space for your loft conversion will depend entirely on the objective for converting the room. In the case of attics, some parts of the repurposed room might require people to duck. These spaces can be used for furniture and storage items or other things that don’t require space for standing upright.
4. Planning and Permits
Loft conversions don’t typically require approval from the local authorities, but home extensions that change the height or width of your house may need prior approval. Make sure that your loft conversion is fully compliant with existing building regulations, such as the presence of a fire escape and the floor strength. Builders in Richmond will typically include this in their specifications before they work on your loft conversion.
5. The Cost of Converting a Living Space
Loft conversions can cost anywhere between £20,000 to £50,000 depending on how basic the build is. Those that cost more usually include changes to the building’s structure, like the installation of new plumbing and wiring as well as materials used.
Types of Loft Conversions
Deciding what type of loft conversion will suit your home depends on how the loft will be used, the budget, and the roof type.
Velux Loft Conversions
Otherwise known as roof light conversions, these loft conversions are the most affordable because they cause the least disruption in the home’s structure. There are no changes or expansions to the living space, only additions of windows, a stronger floor, and stairs leading up to it if needed.
Mansard Loft Conversions
These are the most expensive and disruptive of the options, and it suits terraced houses the most. It can completely change your roof’s slope, turning it vertical as it runs along the length of your home while adding a significant amount of space.
Dormer Loft Conversions
These are the most popular loft conversion type in Britain and are characterised by a protrusion from the existing roof that looks like a box shape. It’s a great way to add more space than a room light conversion while still staying relatively budget-friendly.
Hip to Gable Loft Conversions
Hip to gable loft conversions work best for end-of-terrace houses and detached homes. An inwardly slanted roof (the “hip”) is straightened into a vertical wall (the “gable”) to add a significant amount of space. These can also be quite pricey.
Conclusion
Loft conversions can transform your home without having to add an entirely separate building extension, which can be much pricier. Kill two birds with one stone by making use of your dusty attic or the spare storage room that nobody really uses for anything—and it can add value to your home, making it a place to enjoy living all the more.
A good loft conversion company can transform your unused space into a beautiful loft you’re sure to love. Here at Embury Building Services, we transform residential and commercial spaces in South West and West London into custom designs through quality carpentry, plumbing, electrical wiring, and home decorating. Contact us today to get a quote!
