Although every loft conversion will vary depending on the size and scale of the work being undertaken, it’s important to have an idea in your mind of how long it’s likely to take. It’s a fairly big home renovation project, so it’s therefore imperative that you know how long you’ll have to live through the work.
Obviously, there will always be variations and outside factors to consider, but for loft extensions London wide, here is a rough idea of how long it ought to take:
Week 1:
In the first week, your loft conversion company will erect the scaffolding if it’s required, and the first delivery of materials will arrive. This is also when an access hole in the roof will be created so that the work can begin.
Week 2:
Structural work will begin during the first and second weeks of the build. Steel joists will be fitted if necessary, and if dormer windows are to be fitted, dwarf walls will be built to support them. The roof will be stripped back and your home will be protected with a temporary cover.
Week 3:
Most of the external roof work will be undertaken during week three. This will include the likes of roofing, lead work, and fascias, soffits, and guttering.
Quite often, the plumber and electrician will arrive during week 3 to complete their first fixes. These are the vital behind-the-scenes plumbing and electrics which will allow your new loft conversion to be fully serviced.
Week 4:
During week four, your loft room floor will be installed, as well as the roof and dormer windows. The internal stud walls may also be erected and insulated, and the roof ventilation fitted.
Week 5:
The plasterboard will be erected by week 5, and this will then allow the plasterers to come in and skim the walls. By this point, you’ll really be starting to see your new loft room taking shape.
The electricians will also arrive to do their ‘final fix’. This will include the likes of wall plates, ceiling roses, and light switches.
If it hasn’t already been done, access for the new staircase will be created and the stairs themselves will be fitted.
Week 6:
At this point, we really start to see the finishing touches come into play. Doors will be hung, the final electrics and plastering will be completed and then here comes the exciting bit: the decorating!
Week 7:
If you’ve opted for a complete loft conversion package, at this point the decorating will really be in full swing. Painters and decorators will be called in to bring your new loft room to life, and tilers will put the finishing touches to any bathrooms you’ve had installed.
A good loft conversion team will also clean down at this point and remove any waste, as well as be checking for any snagging.
Week 8:
Week 8 consists of final inspections to make sure everything is as it should be. And then? Then it’s all yours! The official sign-off will take place ahead of handover to you at this point.
So there we have it! If you’d like a more detailed timeline, it’s important to consult a loft conversion specialist, such as Bespoke Lofts, during the quote stage. Ask them for their time scales and for testimonials from satisfied customers. Then you can sit back and let the work commence.