Loft Conversions And Your HomeFull scale loft conversions are possible in most UK properties though the amount of work needed will vary from home to home. But, for larger loft conversions, it is necessary to assess the potential in your roof space before making plans. The advice of a builder or architect will be needed before your plans are finalised but the homeowner can quickly work out if his / her roof space is suitable for a conversion by inspecting the loft for themselves. Prior to making any firm plans climb into the roof space and take a quick look around. The key to most loft conversions is how the roof was built and the headroom available.
A truss rafter roof will essentially mean that a number of structural alterations will be necessary to the property whilst a traditional rafter and purlin style roof should mean that any loft conversions will be relatively straight-forward. If your home is a bungalow then other factors will need to be considered. To convert the loft most bungalows will need strucural modifications as many were built without load bearing walls. This isn't as drastic as it seems but bungalow owners can get more details by clicking here. Types of roof Trussed rafter – will be a shallow pitch with the supporting timbers formed into a distinctive ‘W’ shape – usually built post 1965 Rafter and purlin – steep pitch to the roof with supporting timbers shaped like an ‘M’ – usually built pre-1965 For more details on how to assess how your roof was built – click on the highlighted text. Other points to consider Headroom – the headroom in the existing loft should be between 7 and 8 feet, though obviously the more room the better.
Staircase – a staircase is an absolute must if planing an habitable room in your roof space. There are different options when thinking about loft stairs but one thing you must be clear on is the actual location of the stairs. Often it may be necessary to sacrifice a second floor room in order to accommodate a staircase to the loft Safety – when assessing the suitability of your roof space bear in mind the need for safety - especially escape windows in the loft and fire safety. Planning – most loft conversions don’t need planning permission but if your roof space is restricted then you will probably need to install a dormer in which case planning permission will be needed. Also remember to take into account the building regulations and the Party Wall Act. Plumbing – will your current central heating system be able to cope with the addition of heating into your roof space. The cost – adding a conversion to your home will increase its value but obviously the initial outlay or available budget will impact on your plans. Click here for a brief guide to prices paid for loft conversions. Apart from these basic considerations most loft conversions will be possible though it is obviously best to have your plans professionally drawn up to your own specifications. Related Articles How A Loft Conversion Can Add Value To Your Home Or Click here to return to the home page
Click here to return to the top of this page
Top photo by Stephen Moretti
|
