Loft conversions are an increasingly popular way of maximising space in a property.
Depending on type, size and exact specifications, a loft conversion can cost anything from £30,000 to in excess of £100,000. However, bear in mind that converting a loft into an en-suite master bedroom could potentially increase your home’s value by up to 20%.
Key considerations when thinking about loft a conversion
The main things to take into consideration are property type and age, structural integrity, planning permissions, budget, disruption and timescales.
If you are considering a loft extension to your property, there are a number of specialists, such as silverferndevelopments.co.uk/exeter-builders/loft-conversions, who offer loft conversions Exeter and the surrounding areas.
Types of Loft Conversions
There are three popular types of loft conversions: dormer, rooflight/skylight, and hip-to-gable.
1. Dormer Conversion
Roof dormers involve adding a box-like structure to an existing roof. They are available in various shapes, sizes, and styles.
The advantages of these are that they can add headroom, floor space, and light – and can also offer different views, and improved airflow. The main downsides are that they need considerable structural work, may need planning permission, and are more expensive than a basic conversion.
2. Rooflight/Skylight Conversion
A rooflight conversion is the simplest type. Instead of structural alteration, it simply involves the addition of windows, reinforcing the floor, and general redecoration.
The advantages of this type are its simplicity, which means less disruption and shorter timescales. It is also usually the cheapest option of the three. The main negative with this type is that it relies on existing roof slopes, so there may be some limits to floor space and headroom.
3. Hip-to-Gable Conversion
This type of conversion involves extending the sloping side of the roof. This creates a vertical wall/gable end.
This type of conversion can add a substantial amount of space, as well as improve the property’s external appearance. However, it does require extensive structural changes, may require planning approval, and is also the most expensive of the three main types.