loft conversion
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Is your home suitable for a loft conversion?

Loft conversion is not suitable for all types of roof structures. It is very important to determine the type of roof you have. Particular roof structure types are easily convertible but other types have to be replaced completely to be made suitable for living. Before undertaking loft conversion, it is advisable to consult an experienced professional.

Prior to 1960s, the majority of roofs were constructed by carpenters. These were also known as traditional roofs and they made a basic frame by using large section timbers. As the techniques for constructing roofs developed further, builders started using smaller section timbers. This allowed for the roof framing geometry to develop further in order to satisfy different roof designs.

The most obvious indicator of whether your home is suitable for loft conversion is head height. The general rule of thumb is that there must be at least a 2.2 meters distance between the floor and the ceiling. If the ceiling is sloped, this distance must apply for over half of the floor space. This requirement is necessary in order to ensure that people can stand up straight in the room.

People with lofts lower than 2.2 meters in height must consider remodelling as it allows for a new height to be achieved.

The second most obvious consideration for loft conversion is access. According to the regulations, there must be a permanent access for loft conversion to be considered as a living space. Usually the access is in the form of a staircase, which means that there are a number of other considerations to take into account, such as placement and structural work.

Staircases allowing access to the roof normally rise from the room’s center. This is necessary in order to ensure that people are not required to duck when they enter the room.

When in doubt whether your house is suitable for loft conversion, don’t hesitate to contact a professional team. Such a team will also survey your property and offer a free quote and an advise for loft conversion.

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Design ideas for loft conversions

Loft conversion is not as difficult as you might think but you need to have some design ideas before you begin. The following are a number of ideas and advices on how to increase the flow of light in the premise and make the most out of the available floor space.

Ensure you decorate effectively

Usually, your loft has a sloping ceiling and walls, so ensure you paint them the same colour. Paint the entire room the same colour where you have sloping elements and consider using close tints of the same colour for a more modern look.

Make sufficient space for the stairs

The staircase should occupy as little space as possible, not only on the storey below but also in the loft. Usually it is best to renovate the existing main staircase. In case the space is very tight, the best option is a spiral staircase.

Preserve your privacy

You can build a more neat look by fitting Velux windows with sliding blinds. Consider using pull-down blinds or plantation shutters for dormer windows.

Create an atmosphere by using lighting

Generate different effects by layering your lighting. In the flat part of the ceiling, you can place low-energy spotlights, and you can also fit directional spots to exposed beams. Adding bedside wall lights can also improve the atmosphere.

Ensure the floor is soundproof

Cushion wooden floors or even better discard them to avoid problems with people living below. Try sound-deadening materials if you thing that the noise could be a big issue.

Allow for enough natural light

Increase the flow of natural daylight by maximizing the number of windows. You can place a number of double-glazed windows in a roof section to create one big glazing expanse.

Consider an extra bathroom

If you add an extra bathroom to your attic, it will increase the quality of your loft conversion. If you don’t have the money right now, try to at least install the plumbing so that you can make the addition in future.

loft conversion drilling
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The benefits of a loft conversion

What are the benefits of a loft conversion?

Many people think of a loft space of an existing house as nothing more than a storage place. The rising housing costs in many cities, such as London, motivate certain individuals to consider loft conversions. Transforming an old attic into a loft is associated with several benefits.

  1. New homes are not as affordable as lofts. Renovating an old attic into a loft can be accomplished at only a fraction of the expenditure needed to purchase a new home, this is because the base structures are already in place and it is easier for a contractor to install plumbing and wiring into a new loft.
  1. Lofts are known for their energy efficiency. Heat rises from the bottom to the top of a house in a cooler climate. This provides a loft with free heating. Many people living in lofts do not use heating even in the winter when someone heats the premises below.
  1. A loft conversion can increase the price of a London home (by as much as 40%). The cost of London properties has risen substantially during the last few years, which prompted many people to look for new ideas for rebuilding and renovating existing home to allow for more tenants. A loft conversion in London is a great way to make the most out of this.
  1. An loft space can be converted into a room and rented out. A loft is often considered as an affordable traditional housing alternative. It can be an additional income source for homeowners.
  1. Costs for maintenance are usually low because a loft is a part of the existing home infrastructure. Regular home maintenance usually includes loft maintenance and doesn’t incur additional expenditure.

The popularity of lofts is on the rise in recent years as building space in large living areas becomes increasingly expensive. There are a number of installation options for loft conversions in London and they are designed to fit different budgets. Loft conversion is a challenging task for a DIY fan, so it is best to use professional services.