If there is one great way of adding more space to your home, it is a loft conversion project. Whether it is an extra bedroom, a master suite or a home office, the potential for that otherwise difficult to utilise space is huge. And once you execute it well, you will not only have a useful room but also add a lot of value to your property.
But before you embark on your loft conversion journey, you need to consider a few important factors.
Let’s Find out the Answers to some Important Questions about Loft Conversion
Is the place suitable for a loft conversion?
Not all roofs are created equal, and in some cases, a loft conversion will be out of the question. The main considerations in regards to such a project should be:
- The available head height
- Roof structure and roof pitch
- Potential obstacles – chimney stacks, water tanks, etc.
The most suitable roof types for loft conversion projects are the traditional framed type roofs. With the space can be opened rather easily. Trussed roofs are much harder to convert, although it is not impossible. But because of their W-shaped rafters, the project is going to cost more.
How much headspace do you need for a loft conversion?
In the ideal case, you will have at least 2.2 meters of space for a suitable loft conversion. That is measured from the bottom of the ridge timber up to the center of the room. If the roof pitch is of a higher angle, then the central head height will be proportionally higher. With the roof being about 35 degrees, a loft conversion is easy enough to execute. If the head height is less than 2.2m., then there might be a need for adding a mansard roof or a replacement of the roof structure, which is extra work and complication.
Do you need planning permission for a loft conversion? 
You don’t always need planning permission for this kind of project, because most of the time work falls under Permitted Development rights. Yet, it is important to remember that the final design needs to adhere to some parameters, such as that the property must not have used its permitted development rights for adding a storey. It should also not add more than 40 cubic meters of volume if it is a terraced house or 50 cubic meters of volume for any other type of house.
In case work doesn’t fall under the category of permitted development, then it is required to obtain planning permission. Certain designated areas don’t consider loft conversions permitted developments – namely in conservation areas and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
What is the average cost of a loft conversion?
In a spacious loft that doesn’t require much adjusting, costs are usually lower. The most important factor is generous height, as well as the area being of reasonable size. The most basic of projects cost as little as £20,000 and go up as high as £70,000. The high end of the price is reserved for full rebuilds where a new roof is required.
How long does the project take?
Depending on the complexity of the design, a loft conversion project can take anywhere between 6 to 10 weeks. If structural reinforcements are not required, the project will be much quicker to execute. In any case, homeowners should always prepare for a longer project, especially since it can cause some disruption to their home in the meantime.
