Loft conversions remain top on the list of the nation’s favourite ways to add space to a home, and with help from Bromley north builders in Mitcham, you could be one of the many thousands of happy homeowners who’ve created a new and functional space from a neglected, underused loft.
If you’re considering converting your loft, here are a few factors to consider:
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The type of roof that you have
The structure of your home’s roof plays an important role in any successful loft conversion, and there are two main types of roof: traditional and modern trussed.
Traditional roofs
These are typically found in homes constructed before 1965, and their rafters form a shape similar to that of the letter ‘M’; meeting in the middle of the loft, unlike modern roofs built after that time. At their highest point, they usually measure around 2.2 metres.
Modern trussed roof
Constructed so that their rafters form a W shape, these types of roofs are usually around 2.4 metres at their highest point, and are generally harder to convert than their traditional counterparts.
Space: is there enough?
It’s vital to make a few basic measurements before determining whether your loft could undergo a conversion, and when doing so, here are two things to keep in mind:
Floor area
Generally speaking, the internal walls of your loft should expand across 7.5 metres from front to back, and 5.5 metres from side to side.
The roofs angle
In an ideal world, the pitch of the roof should be at a higher angle, leaving the most height in the centre of the space as possible. Generally, any angle more than 30 degrees should be suitable.
Can you extend your roof?
With the right dimensions and space available, the existing loft structure could be made into a new living space, but, if more space is what you need, you may be able to extend your loft and straighten out the walls to create a more traditional space.
Talking to a local construction firm with plenty of experience of loft conversions, will help you determine how much (if any) extra space you can achieve by extending your roof.
Should you choose a flat roof/box dormer?
These types of loft conversions are the most popular, and they are when a structural extension is built which projects vertically from the slope of the roof that’s already in place. This creates a box shape and helps to give homeowners bags of new floor space, plus additional headroom and the opportunity to install conventional windows.
When considering converting your loft, it’s important that you also think carefully about party walls, planning and building regulations, and any permissions you might need to apply for. The last thing you want is for your loft conversion to be halted midway due to a lack of planning permission, or worse yet, have the entire project dismantled. Finally, don’t forget to check in with your neighbours and keep them updated as to your plans.
