Converting your loft space is a great way to maximize your space, increase your property’s value, and expand your home. There are many options available, so working out what will best suit your property and family needs will assist you in making the final decision. Here is a quick look at the variations to help you decide your next steps.
Identifying Property Type
The majority of homes have loft spaces, but the specific type of property you have will affect the types of loft conversions you can invest in. Whether you live in a bungalow or terraced house, there are plenty of options for most property types and the first step is to identify what kind of property you live in, so that you can make the correct building decision and get started on improving your home.
Hip-to-Gable
This type of conversion turns the sloping part of your roof (hip) into an extension of the sidewall (gable), raising a significant part of your roof. This creates a lot of useable space and is of most benefit for a semi-detached or terrace house – depending on the style of roof.
Dormer
A dormer conversion creates more headroom in certain places, without the cost of raising the whole roof and wall. It is, therefore, possible to use the roof space as a bedroom (for example) in-line with local regulations. This type of conversion is compatible with many home and roof styles, making it wonderfully versatile. It is also one of the cheapest ways to add value to your property, so is well worth the investment if you are thinking of selling. There are many different kinds of dormer conversions, which is why they are so popular and flexible.
Rooflight or Velux
This is probably the quickest and cheapest type of loft conversion. There are no alterations to the roof – you are simply using the space that already exists. Rooflights or Velux windows are placed in the roof to make the space light and provide ventilation but they provide no extra headroom so rely on a certain size of loft space to work.
Trussed roof loft conversion
This type of loft conversion changes the structure of the roof to convert the loft space into a usable room – which may be necessary depending on how and when your house was built. If you have ‘W’ shaped beam structure in your loft, you may need this type of loft conversion, which normally requires a specialist company to perform the work to ensure there is no damage to the roof or house below.
Mansion Apartment
Converting the loft space above a mansion apartment can be tricky, but it is well worth the work and investment. There is often plenty of unused space available, but the problems that arise can include trying to buy the space and negotiating with owners and tenants. However, once you have overcome these, the benefits can far outweigh the work, with wonderful additions to the property coming in the form of additional bedrooms and bathrooms, and even balconies and terraces. Converting roof space in a mansion apartment is a great way to maximize the potential of the entire building, and can increase its value and appeal.
