Loft Conversion

Loft conversions are growing in popularity as households look to acquire an extra room in their home for less money than forking out for a full-on extension.

For most growing families, space can be an issue. But what happens if you can’t afford to move to a bigger property?  The obvious answer would be to extend. But again, that’s not always practical. And that’s why many homeowners are turning to conversions rather than traditional extensions.

The idea behind any type of home conversion is to release the untapped value that may be lying dormant in your property. In some instances, that can include a garage conversion or perhaps converting a cellar or basement. Loft conversions tend to be the quickest type of conversion – and one of the most cost-effective.

Whether it’s an extension or a conversation, planning is everything – it’s imperative that you design and plan properly. Planning and design needs to be given careful consideration and attention. So before you even consider turning to an architect to draw up some plans, check out that dusty old loft space for yourself. It’ll help you to visualise what could be because on paper your loft will probably seem to be bigger than it actually is. Equally important, you need to familiarise yourself with and make sense of the actually amount of available head space.

Key to a successful loft conversion

Once you’ve checked out your dark and dingy loft space and had a good old poke around up there, there are a few things you need to consider, including:

• Think carefully about what you want to use the space for. While any additional space will add value to your home, think about the best way to utilise the space – whether you want to add an extra bedroom or want to convert the loft into a study.

• Lofts need lots of natural light. So think about what sort of windows will best suit the conversion. Velux rooflights are a popular choice, but dormer windows are another option.

• If you opt for a bedroom with an ensuite or a luxurious wet room, bear in mind that it can be tricky to get the services up there.

• Get the staircase right – in a loft conversion nothing is worse than feeling like you’re climbing a loft ladder!

• Don’t forget to use the opportunity to insulate the loft space – and the more insulation the better!

Reasons why a loft conversion makes sense

• It’s cheaper than moving and a lot less stressful.

• It will increase your property’s value.

• Your loft can be transformed into a wide range of rooms, from a kids playroom and an office to an extra bedroom or an extra bathroom.

• In most cases you won’t need planning permission like you do with an extension, although you will need to comply with building regulations.

• A loft conversion won’t have any impact on your property or garden size and is quicker to complete than other extension jobs.

Call in the specialists

Converting the loft space can be a tricky complicated process. And like any conversion or extension, it’s very important that the job is done right. We have a range of specialist loft conversion firms and building specialists who will be able to take your dreary and dull loft space and take it to lofty (pardon the pun!) new heights, transforming the area into a functional room to be proud of.