Loft Conversion Types

Loft conversions in the United Kingdom can be broadly classified into four categories. A loft conversion may be utilized as a guest room, study, or playroom, increasing the size of your home while also increasing its value. Converting your empty roof space into a loft will cost between £20-45,000 and take 4-8 weeks.

You must consider the current roof’s shape and line, your budget, and your permitted development rights while deciding on the type of conversion you want. With the help of a skilled architect, you can learn how to draw the best plans for your home.

There are three sorts of structural changes.

1. dormer loft conversion

Flat roof dormers are the most common style of loft conversion. This box-shaped structural addition extends vertically from the current roof’s slope. This loft addition usually does not need any major adjustments and allows for standard windows installation.

Pros:

In a small attic, it provides much-needed headroom.
Flat ceilings and straight walls are the results.
Adds a significant amount of interior space as a result of its design.
Good light and ventilation.
Cost-effective in comparison to other options.
Suitable for a wide range of British home designs.
Permitted development is frequently the case here.

Cons:

not always the most visually pleasing option.

An L-shaped dormer, which wraps around the side and back of the home, is a common alteration for a mid-terrace period property.

Consider a gabled dormer for a more classic inverted “v” shape roof. This might be a more appealing option for the front of your house. However, it is usually the more expensive alternative, and it also limits headroom.

2. mansard loft conversion

In order to build a mansard loft conversion, you raise the party wall (the wall shared with your neighbours). One of the exterior walls dips somewhat inwards, but the roof stays flat. Although they may be suitable in various properties, mansards are especially common in terraced homes.

Pros:

considered more appealing than a dormer from an aesthetic standpoint.
Easily integrates onto existing properties.
The most headroom of any conversion method.
Allows for more natural light to enter your loft.

Cons:

Planning permission is almost always required.
Long Construction time.
They are more expensive than other types of loft conversions.

3. Hip to gable loft conversion

A slanted end roof can be straightened out to create a vertical wall with a hip to gable loft conversion. An increasingly popular choice for homeowners, this seemingly insignificant alteration may have an enormous impact on the home’s interior design.

Pros:

Visually attractive as it merges in with the existing home.
This addition works well with a dormer loft in the back for additional living space.
Appropriate for use in chalets and bungalows

Cons:

Not appropriate for mid-terrace houses
Overpriced in comparison with a dormer conversion
If your neighbour hasn’t had one, it might make you feel imbalanced

If you don’t want to make structural changes to your home or have a limited budget, you might want to investigate a roof light loft conversion as a fourth option.

4. Roof light loft conversion

A roof light conversion involves adding windows and reinforcing the floor to turn an attic into a suitable living area without altering or expanding the current space.

Pros:

Up to 25% less expensive than other forms of conversion.
In conservation areas, it is more likely to be permitted.
If you use your eaves creatively, you’ll have plenty of storage space.

Cons:

2.25m of head height is required in the centre of the room, providing enough space to build up the floor securely.
It does not provide any more usable space, unlike other forms of conversions.
Due to the lack of headroom, steps may have to be installed in the centre of the room.
If the windows are at the front, planning permission may still be required.

Get a quote today to discover more about your project and get a Udex expert.

If you’re thinking of a loft conversion but aren’t sure where to start, our expert staff can help you. Make an appointment with us for a free consultation call.