Wednesday, December 11

Exploring the Different Types of Loft Conversions – Which One Is Right for You?

Your loft is an often-overlooked space in your house with its potential neglected. For some homeowners, the thought of transforming this space into a room with a purpose could be an exciting prospect.

Loft conversions are a popular way to create more living space and add value to your property. There are several types of loft conversions, each with its advantages. In this blog post, we’ll explore the different types of loft conversions so that you can choose the right one for your home.

Rooflight Conversion

Rooflight conversions are also known as Velux or skylight conversions. As the name suggests, it involves adding roof lights that allow natural light to enter the room.

This is the most straightforward and cost-effective type of conversion. Rooflights are installed flush with the roofline, making them suitable for properties with limited available loft space. One advantage of this conversion is that it often does not require planning permission.

Dormer Conversion

Dormer conversions are a popular choice as they increase both the floor space and headroom in your loft. A dormer is constructed from the roof, protruding vertically from the slope of the roof. They come in different sizes and shapes, including flat roofs, hipped, gable-fronted, and L-shaped. Dormer conversions are versatile and can be adapted to suit most properties.

Hip to Gable Conversion

Hip-to-gable conversions change the sloping roof of a property – usually found on the side of the house, to a vertical wall (gable) at the same height as the ridge. This increases the viable space in the loft as well as the aesthetic appeal of the property. It is perfect for semi-detached houses, detached bungalows as well as those properties built in the 1930s and 1940s.

Mansard Conversion

The mansard conversion is named after Francois Mansard, who popularized this type of conversion in the 17th century. It involves creating a flat roof with a box-like structure on top. This conversion creates more floor space than other types of loft conversions, although it is often the most expensive. Mansard conversions require planning permission in many cases, and they are best suited for terraced houses.

Modular or Full Conversion

A modular conversion, a.k.a. Full conversion, is where the loft space is entirely restructured and rebuilt internally. This type of conversion is the most extensive and costly as it involves extensive architectural and structural changes. However, it is the conversion that offers the most possibilities. The space can be converted into a bedroom, a bathroom, and a quirky living space, depending on your unique needs.

Conclusion

Loft conversions can add value and much-needed space to your home. The type of conversion you choose depends on various factors. Consider your budget, the size of the loft, the style of your home, and any planning permission requirements before making a decision.

Each type of loft conversion has its benefits and perks. Rooflight conversions are the most affordable, Hip to Gable conversions work well with the existing roof, Mansard conversions create more space, while Dormer conversions offer a blend of increase in space and headroom.

No matter which type of loft conversion you choose, be sure to partner with an experienced loft conversion company to bring your vision to life. Happy home improvement!