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Why you should consider converting your loft space

Converting your loft space can be a great way to increase your home’s space, without the need to move. It can also increase the value of your property by up to 20%, so even though you might not be looking to move right away, it can be a worthwhile investment. Plus, converting your loft can be a far less disruptive task than any other major extension work in your existing living space.

However, there are many other factors you need to consider when you’re planning a loft conversion. These can include:

  • Costs
  • Design
  • Potential planning permissions
  • Building regulations

In order to approach your loft conversion correctly, all of these elements need to be assessed accordingly.

guide to planning permission

Can your loft be converted?

Before you get carried away, you need to work out whether your loft space is suitable for a loft conversion.

The majority of properties will come with an allowance for permitted development, which means you can get started without the need for planning permission. However, don’t go hammering away just yet – If you live in a conservation area, for example, it could be a little more complicated.

Also Read: Looking For Projects You Can Do Without Planning Permission?

Take a look at other homes in your area

A quick way to help you get an idea regarding converting your loft is to take a look at similar homes in your area. If you can spot a loft conversion nearby, the chances are, you’re going to be good to go. If you’re friendly with your neighbours, ask to take a look to get some ideas for your own loft conversion project.

Check out your roof type 

Depending on when your home was built, your house will either have roof trusses or rafters. By looking through your loft hatch, you should be able to tell straight away what type of roof you have.

converting your loft space

What type of loft conversion is for you?

In order to maximise your living space and build the right loft conversion for your home, the first step is to decide upon the type of loft conversion.

Also Read: Add Value To Your Home With a New Kitchen

There are four main types of loft conversion: roof light, dormer, hip-to-gable and mansard. The type of loft conversion you choose is likely to be determined by a number of factors, including:

  • The type and age of house you live in
  • Your budget

Roof light conversions

Roof light conversions are by far the cheapest and least disruptive option, as you won’t have to make any changes to the shape or pitch of the roof.

Dormer conversions

A dormer loft conversion is an extension that protrudes from the slope of the roof. Dormers, in particular flat-roof dormers, are the most popular type of conversion. They are suitable for pretty much any house with a sloping roof. 

Hip-to-gable conversions 

Hip-to-gable conversions work by extending the sloping ‘hip’ roof at the side of your home outwards to create a vertical ‘gable’ wall, creating more internal loft space. This type of conversion will only work on detached or semi-detached houses, as it requires a free sloping side roof.

Mansard conversions 

Mansard extensions run along the length of your home’s roof and will alter the angle of the roof slope, making it near enough vertical. These tend to be the most costly type of conversion, but will result in a significant amount of extra space.

Adding value to your home with a loft conversion 

Loft conversions are one of the best ways you can invest in your home. 

Housing Market Research has shown that your house value can increase by as much as 20%.

Adding value to your home with a loft conversion 

Loft conversions are one of the best ways you can invest in your home. 

  • Housing Market Research has shown that your house value can increase by as much as 20%.
  • Nationwide revealed that loft conversions have the potential to increase the value of the average home by around £37,000.
Also Read: Why Hire an Estimator?

Plus, the value added by converting your loft doesn’t necessarily have to wait until you sell your home. With the rise of Airbnb, it has become super popular to rent spare bedrooms to those looking for a place to stay.

Why convert your loft space?

Now’s the time to make the most of the space you have in your existing home – and converting your loft is the best way to do it.

Little disruption 

Unlike house extensions, loft conversions are relatively minimal when it comes to disrupting your home life. 

Add value to your home

Whether you’re looking to sell soon, or thinking ahead, loft conversions can add considerable value to your home. Especially when used for an extra bedroom with an en-suite bathroom.

Avoid the hassle (and cost!) of moving

It’s not only stamp duty, solicitor fees and property costs that continue to rise: the true cost of moving house seems to get higher every year.

Also Read: How To Build a Home on a Budget

This means that there’s less hassle, associated with moving home. Such as changing jobs, extra commute time, new schools or even just the stress of packing up and relocating.

Are you considering a loft conversion?

If you’re looking to add some extra space to your home, talk to the experts here at Nest Estimating for an accurate building cost estimate.

Keep your loft conversion project on track with our accurate cost estimates, meaning you know exactly where your money is going.

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