If you’re planning on having your loft converted, you’re likely aware of the benefits: not only does a loft conversion add extra space, but it also adds value to your property. However, you might not be sure how to choose which type of loft conversion to have that would fit your home best.
We’ve put this mini guide together to help you get a better idea of the main types of loft conversions available and the steps involved in deciding which may be the most suitable for your property.
How to Choose Which Type of Loft Conversion to Have: The Main Steps
Ultimately, the loft conversion type you should choose depends on your budget, the shape and height of your roof, as well as the type of property you have (detached, semi-detached, terraced, etc.) Here are the main steps you’ll need to take as part of your decision-making process:
Understand Your Property Type
As already mentioned, different loft conversions suit different property types. Start by identifying what’s structurally possible for your home.
Set a Budget
Budget will play a big role in choosing which type of loft conversion to have. Mansard conversions, for example, are pricier but provide a lot of extra space. Rooflight conversions, on the other hand, allow you to work with a smaller budget.
Think About Your Goals
Are you looking for a simple extra bedroom? An office? A gym? Is lots of natural light a priority? Your end goal will help you determine which type of loft conversion would work best.
Check Planning Permissions
Some conversions fall under planning development, while others (especially those that involve lots of structural changes to the existing property) will require planning permission. For more information on planning permission, have a look at our guide.
Consult the Experts
If you’re still not entirely sure how to choose which type of loft conversion to have, don’t worry! It can be a lot to handle on one’s own. This is where bringing in professional help can be greatly beneficial. We at Alvaston can carry out a survey and recommend the best option for your needs, space and budget. To make an enquiry, get in touch with our team today.
The Main Types of Loft Conversions and Properties They Are Suitable For
Since different types of loft conversions suit different budgets and properties, it’s important to understand the main available options. Have a look at our guide below:
- Dormer Loft Conversion
A dormer loft conversion consists of adding a box-shaped structure (dormer) to the sloping roof of a house, essentially creating an entirely new room with a flat roof and vertical walls. This helps increase both headroom and the floor area, making it especially suitable for attics that don’t otherwise offer much space.
What’s great about this type of loft conversion is that it’s suitable for most types of houses, including terraced, semi-detached and detached, as long as they have a pitched roof and loft space. Additionally, planning permission isn’t required in most cases as it falls under permitted development rights (accessible on the gov.uk website by clicking here).
On the other hand, this type of loft conversion can be slightly more expensive. However, if your budget allows it, a dormer loft conversion is one of the best ways to add a significant amount of space to your loft.
If you’d like to learn more, we have a dedicated blog post on dormer loft conversions which you can check out here!
- Hip to Gable Loft Conversion
A hip to gable loft conversion consists of straightening the sloping roof of a house and converting it into a gable roof which forms an ‘A’ shape that sits between vertical walls. It’s an effective way to increase headspace and usable floor space in your loft, and it’s one of the most popular types of loft conversions.
If you own a detached, semi-detached home, or a bungalow, a hip to gable loft conversion is a great option for you. Keep in mind, however, that it is only suitable for properties with a free sloping side roof and those that offer sufficient roof space.
However, if your home is suitable for this type of conversion, it’s a great way to create lots of extra space and it offers better value in comparison to an external extension.
To learn more, feel free to have a look at our blog on hip to gable loft conversions here.
- Mansard Loft Conversion
Named after the 17th-century French architect Francois Mansart who popularised this conversion style, mansard loft conversions involve partially or entirely removing the existing roof and replacing it with an almost vertical 72-degree wall. The resulting roof is flat and extends across the entire property.
Although mostly popular with terraced homes, this type of loft conversion is suitable for most property types and is very effective at creating a particularly spacious loft flooded with lots of natural light. Needless to say, it’s also a great way to add substantial value to your house.
One thing to keep in mind about mansard loft conversions is that they are one of the most expensive types of conversions due to the amount of work they require. However, they still offer a cheaper option to increase space without having to move house.
Curious to learn more? Have a look at our blog that tells you everything you need to know about mansard loft conversions!
- L-Shaped Loft Conversion
Do you own an Edwardian or Victorian property that has an existing wing (also known as outrigger) at the rear of the building? If so, you definitely need to consider an L-shaped loft conversion!
L-shaped loft conversions involve building two dormers – one on the main roof and one on the rear wing – and joining them together. This not only creates additional height, but allows you to create two larger rooms instead of just one, giving you various options as to how you could utilise this added space.
Of course, this type of conversion is only suitable for properties that do already have a rear extension as part of their structure. If you own such a property and are looking into having your loft converted, check out our blog on L-shaped loft conversions and how one can help maximise the space in your home.
- Rooflight Loft Conversion
Are you looking into how to choose which type of loft conversion to have and only working with a small budget? A rooflight loft conversion might be the perfect solution for you!
Rooflight loft conversions aren’t as expensive as other types of conversions since they don’t require any structural changes to the existing roof. They are a way to make your existing loft space usable by installing skylight windows, a functional floor and a staircase to make the space accessible. Due to its simplicity, the construction process only causes minimal disruption to your day-to-day life and doesn’t usually require planning permission.
Keep in mind, however, that a rooflight loft conversion is only worth it if you already have sufficient existing roof space and head height.
Want to know more about this type of loft conversion? You guessed it: we have a dedicated blog detailing everything you need to know about rooflight loft conversions! Feel free to have a look.
Still Not Sure How to Choose Which Type of Loft Conversion to Have? Alvaston Can Help!
At Alvaston, we’ve been providing individuals and families with loft conversions for over 60 years. We can work with your budget, property type and vision to plan and build the perfect loft conversion for you and your home. What’s more, we can handle all technicalities like planning and building regulations to help you make an informed choice.
Get in touch with our team today and we’ll be happy to provide you with expert advice!
