Loft conversions are a common type of home improvement which can add a considerable amount of value to your home together with space. From the reformation of the attics that are usually vacant and useless into new living areas that are appealing to the eye, home owners are able to gain more space to live in without necessarily having to expand the house. Below and in the following sections of this guide, important matters such as the benefits of loft conversions, the main types of the loft conversion, planning, and design are described.
Benefits of Loft Conversions
1. Increased Living Space:
The benefits of a loft conversion include increased living space, which is considered one of the most valuable aspects. If you are in need of an additional room or space for working from home or to create a playroom, then the conversion of your loft space can come in handy without having to add on to the structure.
2. Enhanced Property Value:
A loft conversion can be also done in the house and it can raise the value of the house. Loft conversion therefore improves the living space and also adds the aesthetic value of the house if you plan to sell it in the future.
3. Cost-Effective Alternative:
Loft conversion can be more affordable as compared to the moving to a bigger house or constructing a new room on your property. It normally causes less interferences and can be done within a short period of time.
4. Better Use of Existing Space:
Attics are often left as a dead space in most houses, but they can be converted to functional living spaces. Loft conversion fits this space well, they are functional and can be used to suit one’s needs or desires.
Types of Loft Conversions
1. Dormer Conversion:
A dormer conversion is the process of lifting roof to increase the headroom of the room as well as creating the floor space. Both front or rear, or side ones can be built, and they are quite sought after because of the amount of opened space and light they provide in the house.
2. Velux Conversion:
Velux conversions or rooflight conversions are a process through which individuals primarily add Velux windows to the roof to admit natural light inside the loft. Such a conversion is usually easier compared to the others because unlike the other types, the roof does not have to be reconstructed.
3. Mansard Conversion:
Mansard conversions are where the change is made so that a much greater amount of the living space is at the top of the roof. This type of conversion usually entails raising the roof and also installing windows on this new roof slope; this brings in a larger living space, flexible conversion.
4. Hip-to-Gable Conversion:
This type of conversion is performed in order to extend hipped roof, which is a roof with sloping sides and construct a complete gable end. The gain in the area within the house resulting from this change can be used in effectively creating a new room or living space.
Planning and Design Considerations
1. Planning Permission and Building Regulations:
It must be noted that prior to embarking on a loft conversion it is always advisable to see if you will require planning permission. Loft conversions are often examples of PD rights but the specifics might differ based on the region as well as the extent of the alterations. Another permission that needs to be sought is the one for building regulations for safety and structural integrity of the conversion.
2. Structural Integrity:
A loft conversion should be approached with caution concerning the architecture of the home. An architect or structural engineer will then evaluate the current status of the roof and confirm whether it can finish the new entire load of the conversion work. Additional materials may have to be added for them to support the structures that are required.
3. Insulation and Ventilation:
Insulation and adequate ventilation should be done well in order for the loft conversion to be successful. This is taken to ensure that the temperatures inside a given building are regulated and energy is saved through insulating services while provisions for air circulation to avoid production of dampness and the consequent formation of molds is provided for.
4. Interior Design:
Depending on the type of conversion it is, the design of your loft conversion must bear features of such a conversion. Elements like the arrangement of the room, lighting, as well as how it is furnished, especially the cabinets can be a great guide in designing the room. Of additional features, it is possible to mention lighting, furniture that is a part of the structure, and optimization of the available space. Contact LMB lofts for more information.
See also: 5 Reasons to Choose Mansfield Roofers
5. Access and Safety:
The second aspect is to provide a safe and functional staircase in order to utilize the loft space which may be reached. The design should meet building regulation standards and should be easy to use. Also, have proper fire precautions as well as have exit routes in case of fire in the new created loft space.
Therefore, a loft conversion is an excellent idea; it increases the rooms that you have and therefore the value of the property. So if you get to appreciate the advantages, the different ways, and the relevant factors that surround the process you are in a good place to walk through a successful attic conversion project. No matter whether you are contemplating on a dormer, Velux, mansard or hip-to-gable conversion, a good loft conversion will considerably add value to your house as well as amend its usability.
