Types Of Loft Conversions

There are various types of loft conversions available which means that it is important to know which one is going to suit your loft better and what you can get planning permission for.

Dormer

Dormer loft conversions are typically used when there isn't enough room in the attic for the planned extension as they add additional headroom. This method requires an actual extension onto the roof in order for a more standard shape to be created that would be suitable for a room.

These extensions are named after the type of window that is installed to fit the conversion style and involves a dormer window being put in as part of the exterior conversion. It is built at the rear of the roof to provide floor and living space and is generally a square section construction which maximises the overall living area. The extra space that is left will have been created by adding extra depth to the existing roof.

One of the main advantages of dormer loft conversion is that it's cheaper than some other types of conversions, yet can increase the value of your house by 10 - 20 percent. Often you don't even have to get planning permission for this type of conversion but it is advisable to find out about this first.

Rooflight/Velux

This option is generally adequate for those contemplating smaller loft conversions for a single bedroom, study or something similar. They are typically carried out where adequate height is available within the existing loft space. Like the dormer style, this is named after the type of window that is installed to fit the conversion style.

Rooflights can be installed with a minimum disruption and are available in a range of designs and styles for flat, sloping and pitched roofs, in wood and polyurethane frames, with various shutter designs, rollers and glazing, and with electric controls.

Velux extensions are a great way of providing you with extra light in your house. The popular modern windows admit large amounts of light and measurements can be tailored to meet your exact requirements. With a variety of different shapes and sizes to suit most loft conversions, increased heat insulation, extra light and space, you can see why so many people choose to have a velux loft conversion.

They are also ideal if you don't want a full conversion but want to get some extra light coming into your loft. The reason why this is so popular is because the windows we use are top quality, double glazed and it is the cheapest conversion to do as no alterations are made to the roof itself. On top of this, as the windows come in such a large variety of shapes and sizes you can choose a style that compliments your house and suits your taste.

Mansard

This type of conversion is generally designed within the inner London areas, where clients are following the Mansard trend of similar conversions within their locality. This type of conversion was the preferred design a number of years ago although is still popular today.

Mansard loft conversions can be created to the rear and sometimes to the front of your traditional style home; normally to a terraced property and sometimes to a flat roof property.

With so many different types of loft conversions available it's hard to know what is what. However, with enough research and with the help of your conversion team you will pick out the perfect extension for yourself.