One of the first things to consider when thinking about a loft conversion is whether your loft is suitable for a conversion. In most instances, loft conversion suitability isn’t an issue. However, that’s not to say that there aren’t some properties where the roof space presents more of a problem than others.
If you’re wondering about the loft conversion suitability of your attic, here’s a general guide to the types of properties often found in the UK, and the suitability of this type of property for a loft conversion. Of course, there are always exceptions to the rule, so it’s worth consulting with a loft conversion specialist in the first instance.
Bungalow loft conversions
Bungalows are often ripe for a loft conversion. Because of the large footprint of a bungalow, many people like to convert the loft space as it gives a generously proportioned room, or rooms.
A bungalow’s loft conversion suitability will depend on the structure of the roof. Often, this is down to when the bungalow was built. For most bungalows constructed before 1960, because they were built with a large open roof, conversion isn’t usually a problem.
Many bungalows from this period will also have walls that can structurally bear the load of additional rooms, and well-pitched roofs.However, if you own a bungalow with a shallower-pitched roof, don’t feel that this will ruin the loft conversion suitability of your home. Extra head height can be obtained through the use of dormer windows, so speak to a loft conversion specialist about this option.
Terraced property loft conversions
Terraced properties are also a great choice for a loft conversion. Just as older bungalows are a good choice for conversion, Victorian terraced properties are ideal for a loft extension. Dormer extensions or mansard loft conversions are perfect for a terraced property, giving plenty of extra head height.
You may also be able to add a roof terrace, particularly if there has already been an extension added to the two floors below.
New build loft conversions
If you’ve outgrown your new build home, you may be considering its loft conversion suitability. If this is the case, there are certain things that you need to be aware of when converting your home.First of all, you’ll need to consider the presence of truss rafters. These are a complex lattice of rafters which stretch across the roof. If truss rafters are present, the structure of your roof space will need to be altered to allow the space to be opened.
You will also need to find out if there’s a protective covenant on your home. By this we mean a covenant that is set by the property developers at the time of the build, to ensure that all the homes in the development look the same. If this applies to your home, you’ll need the permission of the developers before your loft conversion work begins.
However, as with most types of home, these aspects are not insurmountable, and a loft conversion specialist will be able to walk you through any new build loft conversion hurdles that you may need to be aware of.
Loft conversions for detached and semi-detached homes
When it comes to loft conversion suitability for detached and semi-detached homes, much of it comes down to age, as is the case with all properties. Many pre-1960s homes are great for conversion, with open loft spaces. However, this isn’t always the case, and indeed in much older homes or those within conservation areas, this rule may not apply.
Of course, as is the case with all homes, there will still be certain aspects to look out for, which can include the following:
Truss rafters: as with many new build homes, modern properties are usually built with truss rafters. This means you’ll need to speak to your loft conversion specialist about altering the structure of your roof to remove these safely and open up the space.
The presence of a water tank: if you have a water tank taking up space within a loft conversion, particularly if it’s in a prominent position, you may want to move this. This can be overcome either by moving the water tank to a less prominent position, or installing a combi-boiler (which does not require a tank).
Head height: if there isn’t enough head height, you’ll need to rectify this. This could mean altering the structure of your roof, for example with the inclusion of dormer windows. However, this is something that a loft conversion specialist will be very used to dealing with.
Any home, regardless of its type or design, can come up against these issues, so it’s worth speaking to a loft conversion specialist at the very start of your loft conversion journey in order to check whether your loft is suitable for conversion.
As a general rule, there is no loft that cannot be made to meet loft conversion suitability!
Want to find out about loft conversion suitability? Contact Bespoke Lofts
If you’re wondering about the loft conversion suitability of your property, get in touch with Bespoke Lofts. We can easily assess the suitability of your roof space for conversion, and also propose solutions for any obstacles. Contact us today to find out what you can achieve in your property with a loft conversion.