Loft conversion – Advantages & Planning methods

Loft conversion is getting more popular among families. It has many advantages. When you need extra space for your increased requirements like kid’s room, guest room or a study, you don’t have to buy a larger property. Property prices, although not as high as they used to be, are still significant. A loft conversion also adds value to your property. You can get a handsome return when you sell the property. It also enhances the look of your house. You might have used your attic as a store room or a dead space earlier. If you run your imagination and creativity, you can have light-filled space, wonderful and useful place to spend your spare time.

In most of cases, loft conversion can be achieved without going for major structural changes. In case of any structural change should be made, you need to consult a professional to check the feasibility of the structure. Any alteration of the structure should not weaken it.

Loft conversion involves many processes like building stairs, electric, heating, construction, flooring, windows and more. Loft conversion does not come cheap. It is rather an expensive change and it can take up to four - six months to get completed.

Is Your Loft Right for Conversion?

You can easily find out whether your loft is suitable for conversion or not. Highest point of the loft should be at least 2.3 m so that a normal person can stand up there. To keep the appearance of the house same from the street, loft should be put at the back of building. To let the proper lighting and ventilations, roof windows should be put in the front.

Extra Bathroom

If you want to create an extra bathroom by having a loft conversion, then you need to consider few factors. Hot water and heating system need to be considered. A soil pipe has to be provided. Your heating system may not be capable of heating that extra space.

Planning for Loft Conversion

Planning is very important while going for loft conversion. It may need new beams in the roof and the floor to balance the weight of the new structure. If this change involves sharing of wall, ceiling or floor with other properties, you need to discuss it with your neighbours.

When planning for loft conversion, you will have to follow building regulations. You should put all your plans of loft conversion to your local authority.

Fire Precautions

When you add a new floor to the property, you should go for fire precautions. With changed regulations, you need to have higher level of insulation. It will keep your extended part of home warm during winters and prevent from overheating during summers.

Discuss with your Architect

You should discuss with your architect about your expectations from the loft conversion. You need to tell him about requirements, function of the extended space, number of rooms and other things. Be flexible with your requirements and expectations.

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