Advantages of a Loft Conversion

A loft conversion is one of the most popular and effective forms of home improvement. Taking advantage of this unused space can give you a nice bright room and add a whole new perspective to your house. Not only will a loft conversion give you that much needed space but it can also add value to your property.

On average 30% of your house's potential space is in the loft, therefore you should make the most of this space. The loft conversion can be a versatile space used as a bedroom, living space or even as an office.

What different types of loft conversion are there?

There are four basic types of loft conversion. The original design of your roof you will determine which type of loft conversion you can have and which will look the best.

Rooflight Conversion

Rooflight conversions involve fitting windows into the roof at the same angle as the roof, so that the structure of the roof is untouched. Rooflights usually don't involve planning permission and because there isn't any structural change they are cheaper and quicker than other conversions.

Side Dormer Conversion

Usually, these smaller dormers are built to retain the character of your property. A side dormer is often constructed instead of raising the hip to create a full gable extension. Often these conversions are where strict planning regulations are in force.

Mansard Conversion

A mansard roof is one with two slopes, one at an almost vertical 72 degree angle and then the top section slope which is almost horizontal. This roof style will maximise available space in your loft. Mansard roofs are not seen much in suburban areas, they are usually seen on older properties in cities. 

Mansard  loft conversions  usually require planning permission and because of the changes in roof structure it can be expensive.

Hip to Gable

A hip to gable conversion requires changing the external form of the roof. It allows more headroom and this means you can capitalize on the floor space. Because of the structural changes to the roof, this type of conversion usually requires planning permission.

Attic Conversions in London

Attic conversions in London are becoming more and more popular.  This is due to the fact that London has some of the highest property prices in the UK and is still considered a “hot property spot” as so many people love visiting London purely for buzz created by the Royal Family, the West End and the nightlife.

An attic conversion in London is a good investment as they can not only add significant value to your property but also give that much needed extra space.  This is especially useful if you have a growing family or want have an extra room to let.  The rental market in the city of London is red hot at the moment so having an extra room to rent out can add another source of income at the same time as increasing the value of your home.  A loft conversion is cost effective and you will find it very easy to find numerous articles outlining the reasons why converting your loft is such a sound investment.  You should seriously consider an attic conversion as today any money you have in the bank is being eaten away by inflation and bringing you little return.  It would be a lot more beneficial to invest in a loft conversion and you can reap these benefits immediately. 

There are so many properties in London that are perfect for converting.  Whether it be a top floor flat, a detached house or a bungalow. Dormers and Mansards are types of attic conversion that will maximise the space available in your roof space.  An attic conversion will also help to insulate the top of your house and stop heat escaping.  With the rising cost of energy a conversion will help to keep these bills down and at the same time keep your home snug and warm.

When choosing a company to convert your loft you need to choose very carefully.  Attic conversions are a simple building process and will require an expert who has planning knowledge and expert building skills.  You will need a loft conversion specialist with years of experience.  Using an experienced loft conversion company you can feel assured that you are in good hands.  They will know the entire process like the back of their hand and this will enable them to complete the project in a timely manner.  Not only will a professional create a beautiful room in your loft space, they will also be able to provide you with expert and invaluable advice on questions like whether you are able to have a bathroom or if you can have windows.  Another huge benefit is having the help of a professional when it comes to the design of your room.  Instead of just using a blueprint you can make the room unique and personal and also make the room more functional as well as comfortable.  Make use of the expert skills and advice available to you and create the attic conversion of your dreams.

Is a Mansard Loft Conversion Right for You?

If you are finding your home a little cramped and want to make use of wasted attic space then a loft conversion is probably the way forward.  Up to 30% of most building’s space is in the attic area and with a lot of people’s mortgage costs so high it makes sense to make the most of the building you are paying for.  You can avoid the stress of moving house just by converting the space you already have available to you.  The question you need to ask yourself is what style of loft conversion you should go for.

Mansard loft conversions  are named after the French architect Francois Masart. Mansard loft conversions are designed so you get the optimum amount of room possible out of your loft conversion.  The easiest way to understand them is to think of it as an extension across the entire plane of your roof.  It is almost as if your home came with an additional storey to begin with.  The increased space you will get is enough to have an office, play area or even an additional living room.

Before you start the process of converting your loft you need to consider a few things.  The first is the suitability of your property.  Mansard loft conversions are suitable for detached and semi-detached houses, terraced properties, chalets and also bungalows.  The fact they are suitable for all these property types makes them very popular and their popularity is only increasing.  It is best to consult a property developer or surveyor to check your home is suitable for a mansard loft conversion.  You will also need to take into consideration the time scale of the project.  The amount of time a mansard loft conversion will take will depend on the size of your home.  The average time for a loft conversion is five to eight weeks with a four man team.  Any loft conversion that takes less time than this is an indication of poor workmanship which could leave you with repairs to pay for at a later date.  Any more than eight weeks and your contractors are probably hanging around longer than they should be.

You may also have to apply for planning permission as there have been major debates as to whether a mansard loft conversion falls within the requirements set out in the Town and Country Planning Order, Amendment No.2 in 2008.  If you are unsure of how to go about applying for planning permission then you should contact your local authority to find out how the law will affect your personal circumstances.

Lastly ensure you get at least three quotes and compare these.  Generally if you hire locally you will be able to find a better deal.  The cost of your mansard loft conversion will depend on whether you are installing plumbing and electricity on top of the main construction work.  A mansard loft conversion is a worthwhile investment and you will be able to enjoy all your extra space.