Deluxe Lofts – Complete Guide to Loft Conversions

One of the most increasingly prevalent avenues for those seeking to create extra space in their home is via loft conversions. Here at Deluxe Lofts, we know what transformation loft conversions bring to your home, and therefore, everybody shares their wise words on how to accomplish the ideal Loft conversion.

Loft conversion being shown in London

Introduction to Loft Conversions

As much of a headache as buying and selling real estate can be, expanding your already-built home might also feel like quite the task. One of the best alternatives is by going for loft conversions. With the dead space in your house (approximately 20% of the whole floor area), you could create functional and customised living areas to suit what you need with no money stress.

Design and Build Loft Conversions

Designing and building are the two main phases of loft conversions.

Design Phase:

  • Survey and Quote: Your home is surveyed, and a detailed quote is provided.

  • Architectural Plans: After contract approval, architectural plans are created.

  • Planning Permission: Necessary permissions and structural calculations are obtained.

Build Phase:

  • Construction Team: A committed building team executes the plans.

  • Project Management: A project manager will manage the build to ensure things stay on time and within budget.

Regarding the design and build of your loft, Deluxe Lofts are here to take care of everything. If you have existing architectural plans, we can add them to our buildout schedule through our trusted contractors.

Prior Considerations

Things to consider before starting a loft conversion:

  • Purpose: Identify why you want a loft conversion and what will you use the space for.

  • Budget: Identify your budget and put away a bit as a backup if time develops true unexpected charges.

  • Timing: Examine whether this is a good time in construction, if you have the slack to absorb any disruptions.

  • Property Type: Determine the Feasibility of your property for loft conversions, depending on what type of lofts they could be.

  • Conversion Type: Discover different loft conversion styles.

Types of Loft Conversions

Velux Loft Conversion

Pros:

  • Least expensive and simplest option.

  • It doesn't alter the roof structure but adds skylight or Velux windows.

Cons:

  • Limited to existing roof space.

  • Suitable for spaces with maintained headroom.

Cost: £32,000 – £36,000 incl. VAT

Velux loft conversion being shown

Rear Dormer Loft Conversion

Pros:

  • Provides substantial headroom and an open feel.

  • Most of this work is external, so it minimises internal disruption.

Cons:

  • May require planning permission, depending on local regulations.

Cost: £38,000 – £50,000 incl. VAT

L-Shaped Dormer Loft Conversion

Pros:

  • Adds a large and flexible space.

  • Ideal for Victorian and Edwardian properties.

Cons:

  • Generally more expensive and complex.

Cost: From £45,000 incl. VAT

hip to gable loft conversion being shown on a london site

Mansard Loft Conversion

Pros:

  • Provides the most additional space.

  • Aesthetically pleasing and suitable for most property types.

Cons:

  • Most construction work is required, thus making it more disruptive.

Cost: From £45,000 incl. VAT

Mansard loft conversion being shown

Hip-to-Gable Loft Conversion

Pros:

  • Increases headspace significantly.

  • It can be combined with a rear dormer for maximum space.

Cons:

  • Only suitable for semi-detached or detached properties.

Cost: £45,000 – £60,000 incl. VAT

hip to gable loft conversion being shown

Planning Permission and Building Regulations

The process of planning permission is essential, and so are building regulations. Although most loft conversions come under permitted development, more complex mansard roof structures will fail unless full planning permission is obtained for many applications. The building regulations are in place to ensure your loft conversion is structurally safe and sound.

Party Wall Agreements

A party wall agreement is required for works that involve the rendering or repairing of shared walls between properties. This legal condition prevents disputes and defines tasks for everyone during construction.

The Loft Conversion Process

This starts with a site survey, moves on to the design and planning stages, and then finally reaches construction. Here's a week-by-week overview:

  • Week 1: Delivery of materials, scaffolding set up and initial roof removal.

  • Week 2: Installation of grand staircases, rough plumbing and electrical.

  • Week 3: Window fit and set, insulation, and plaster.

  • Week 4: Completion of plumbing, electrics, and carpentry.

  • Weeks 5-6: Roof installed, decoration inside, and finalising the fittings.

  • Weeks 7-8: Final touches, snags, and completion of projects.

Conclusion

By increasing extra space in your home, one of the best methods is loft conversions. Any individual who would like to have a high-standard loft conversion and is searching for trustworthy, excellent-quality interior design should contact Deluxe Lofts. Contact us for a free quote and see how we can help turn your loft into an organised, beautiful space.

Visit Deluxe Lofts for more information and a free quote. Let's make your dream loft conversion a reality!

John Kinsella

John Kinsella is an accountant by trade with a passion for the construction industry. At Deluxe Lofts, he combines his financial expertise with his love for construction, writing insightful blogs that explore the latest trends and tips in loft conversions and home renovations.

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What You Need to Know for a Loft Conversion for a Top Floor Flat or Maisonette