Are you considering turning your attic space into a loft? This actually might be a great idea! The new addition will increase the value of your property and give you and your family some extra space. Your home's exterior will also change, giving it a new and more attractive appearance. However, the loft conversion is typically a major undertaking. It requires a large investment and a well-thought plan. You should consider your budget and what type of loft conversion will suit your space. Before beginning the project, it is crucial to discuss all its details with the right specialists. Communication like this will be beneficial to you because you will get the overall picture of the project, like the timeline, the overall cost, problems that may arise while doing the job, along other things. The professional remodelling company can also give you advice on what type of loft conversion is appropriate for your home.
This article will introduce you to the various types of loft conversions in Surrey and what kind of homes each one is suitable for. Furthermore, we will give you a brief overview of the costs of loft conversions in the UK. We hope this guide will help you make a wise decision. However, be sure to consult an expert for further information and professional recommendations.
How many loft conversions types are there?
You can choose between five types of loft conversion.
Dormer loft conversion
This type of conversion is very popular in the UK. It involves cutting off the rear of the roof and building a box dormer. With the dormer loft conversion, you can build square standard rooms starting from the centre of your house and ending at the rear of the wall. Most box-like structures use standard windows and have a flat ceiling and walls. We have an article on dormer loft conversion ideas if you're interested in learning more.
What kind of properties is it suitable for? The flat roof dormer works well for most UK house styles.
Is planning permission necessary for dormer conversions? The majority of flat roof dormers do not need approval.
What is the price of a dormer conversion in the UK? As you might guess, the cost of the dormer loft conversion (and any other type) will be affected by many factors including the size, scope of work and where your home is located within the UK. Hence, the prices that are given here are only approximate. According to research we have done, the expenses for dormer loft conversions range between £35000 and £60000.
Mansard loft conversion
It is similar to adding a whole new storey onto the property. Typically, mansard conversions are seen in houses or apartments that have three or more storeys. They create much more space because they give you more space in the front section of the roof as well as the rear section of the roof. Loft conversions of this type are performed by reshaping the sloping roof into a vertical wall. In case you live in a terraced house you will also need to upgrade the party wall to minimize noise to your neighbours.
What kind of properties is it suitable for? Mansard loft conversions would work well on terraced, detached or semi-detached houses as well as bungalows or chalets.
Do you need to get planning permission for a mansard loft conversion? If you want to convert your loft into a mansard, you will probably need planning permission.
How much does a mansard loft conversion cost in the UK? You can expect to pay anything between £50000 and £70000 if you are considering a mansard loft conversion.
Hip to gable loft conversion
During this kind of conversion, the inwardly slanted end roof (hipped roof) is straightened out leaving a vertical wall (gable end). Hip to gable conversions creates a good space internally with a full head height. You can add standard window openings for natural light. You may also want to combine this type of loft conversion with a rear dormer to achieve maximum space.
What kind of properties is it suitable for? You can do a hip to gable loft conversion on a bungalow, detached or semi-detached house. Keep in mind that the extension will only be appropriate if your property has a free-sloping side roof.
Do you need planning approval for a hip to gable loft conversion? Your conversion may be allowed if it is under permitted development. All permitted development has volume restrictions so depending on what type of house you build there are limits on how much volume can be added. It means you can build a loft conversion without planning permission as long as you stay within the volume limits.
How much do hip to gable loft conversions cost in the UK? The price of the hip to gable loft conversion may start at £20000 and can reach £80000. Costs for such a project are estimated to be around £45000 - £50000 on average.
Roof light loft conversion
Loft conversions of this type are also known as Velux loft conversions. It is a small project where the existing roof structure remains the same, but new roof windows are installed. Besides adding skylight windows, you should build a proper floor and stairs. Also, to make the space habitable, you will need plumbing, electricity, and insulation. Adding roof lights is an easy way to convert a loft that requires relatively minimal disruption to your existing roof space.
What kind of properties is it suitable for? Velux loft conversion is a great solution if your property already has a large roof area that you want to use for a room.
Do Vellux conversions require planning permission? Planning permission is typically not needed for such a project.
What is the price of roof light conversion in the UK? Roof light conversions are the cheapest type of loft conversion. In most cases, it does not cost more than £20000.
L-shaped loft conversions
The L-shaped loft conversion is another good way to maximise space in your home. One of the pros of this kind of loft extension is that it gives a lot of additional headroom. It involves creating two small dormers which are joined together. L-shaped loft conversions are flexible, offering several configuration possibilities, such as multiple rooms.
What kind of properties is it suitable for? This type of loft conversion is well fitted to houses with an L-shaped plan and existing rear extension. Hence, if you have a house with a small backside and a larger front side, an L-shaped dormer may be a good way for you to maximise the use of your space.
Does it require planning approval? L-shaped conversions normally fall under permitted development rights so that you don't need to apply for planning permission.
How much does it cost in the UK? It is estimated that an L-shaped loft conversion in the UK could cost from £45000 to £55000.
What kind of loft conversion is right for you?
Here are some things you should consider when choosing your loft conversion type:
- Is your empty roof space appropriate for conversion? You need to get some measurements such as internal head height, roof pitch and footprint to determine whether your attic room is suitable for such a project.
- What kind of roof structure does your house have? Is it a flat roof, a gable roof, a hip roof, or something else?
- How would you like to use the new space? Are you going to create a new living room, master bedroom or maybe bathroom?
- Will you need planning permission? In most circumstances, your extension will not require planning approval. However, be sure to check this before starting any loft conversion.
- What is your budget? Do you want a simple and affordable conversion like a Vellux loft conversion? Or would you like to maximize your space by doing a mansard loft conversion? The construction company should know about your ideas and your budget. Be honest and upfront with the company when discussing your plans.
Loft conversions can be done in different ways, and the experts can provide you with the right suggestions and ideas after visiting your home. However, at the end of the day, it should be your decision. Your loft conversion should be based on your own needs. Therefore, it is crucial to consider all aspects before starting the project.
What are the advantages of loft conversions?
Here is how your home can be improved through a loft conversion:
- This will give you more space, and you can customize it to suit your needs.
- You can boost your property value with it.
- You will have a new room and more storage space.
- It is possible to make a room with a beautiful view.
- If you convert your attic room into usable space, you can add insulation to your home and make it more energy-efficient.
To conclude
No matter which type of loft conversion you choose (dormer, hip-to-gable, or rooflight loft conversion), your home will gain both value and beauty. By doing so, you can transform clutter and unused area into a calming space that will satisfy the needs of you and your family. Feel free to contact us if you're interested in loft conversion in Surrey for a quote.