Understanding different types of loft conversions
If you’re considering a new project Oakwood Lofts can help you understand the different types of loft conversions and discover which one is best for your home.
If you’ve outgrown your current home, a loft conversion can be a cost-effective way of adding extra space. Whether you need an extra bedroom or are looking for some cosy living space with a view, there is a type of loft conversion that can realise your vision.
The minimum height requirement for a loft conversion is 2.0m, so to give you adequate headroom you would ideally want 2.3m from the top of your loft joists to the underside of your ridge. Some eras of property were typically built lower than modern ones. If your loft doesn’t currently measure up, all may not be lost.
Your house will either have roof trusses or rafters, which you can see by looking through your loft hatch. Rafters run along the edge of the roof and will leave most of the triangular space below empty, whereas trusses are supports that run through the cross-section of the loft. If you’re looking to convert a loft with trusses, it’s possible to add extra structural supports to strengthen them but this will increase the cost of your conversion.
There are four main types of loft conversion, each with numerous variations: roof light, dormer, hip-to-gable and mansard. The best one for your home is likely to be determined by a number of factors, including the type and age of the house you live in, and your budget.
Roof light loft conversions
Roof light loft conversions are the most common and often the most cost-effective. No major structural changes are needed to the roof other than the addition of roof lights. A new structural suspended floor is added along with a staircase for access.
Dormer loft conversions
A dormer loft conversion adds an extension that protrudes from the slope of the roof to give more headroom. Dormer windows are usually added to the rear but subject to planning permission, they can be added to the side or front of your home.
Hip-to-gable loft conversions
A hip-to-gable loft conversion involves one or more of the hips being replaced with a gable wall (where the roof slopes in from the side as well as the front and back). The roof is then extended over these gables to add extra space with full headroom for your loft conversion.
Mansard loft conversions
17th-century French Architect Francois Mansard lends his name to the mansard loft conversion, which is usually situated at the back of your property. A Mansard loft conversion works by creating an almost vertical-looking profile to one side of the slope, raising the wall to an angle of at least 72 degrees and flattening the top of the roof. This is a major structural work that affects the profile of your home and will require planning permission.
Get in touch
Still not sure where to begin? Oakwood Lofts has over 30 years of experience in building fantastic lofts all over Sussex. We can help to advise you on the right conversion for your property, incorporating your needs and ideas. Give us a call on 01273 424336 or complete our enquiry form.
