When planning a loft conversion there are several considerations you need to make such as your budget, your existing roof line and whether you need planning permission, just to name a few. At this point employ a skilled architect who will help you design the perfect conversion for your home. In the UK there are four popular types of loft conversion.
Dormer loft conversion
The most popular style of loft conversion in the UK is a dormer loft conversion. They design these loft extensions to project vertically from an existing roof, creating additional space by adding a box shape. These are popular for a variety of different reasons, may be because they cost effective they allow for the installation of traditional windows and don't involve any major dramatic changes to your house. It's not uncommon to have one or two of these in a single roof for the sake of adding symmetry.
Pros of a dormer conversions
A simple way to add additional headroom to your attic space
A cost-effective way to add extra ventilation and light
It's easier to get planning permission for them
Cons of a Dormer conversions
A little outdated and no longer considered aesthetically pleasing
Mansard loft conversion
This type of conversion is done by raising the dividing wall between your and your neighbor's home. The roof itself remains flat, but one out of one is constructed to slope inwards. Mansard conversions involve more structural work, this type of extension is more expensive than a dormer.
Pros of a mansard conversions
Offers is a more modern and aesthetically pleasing look than a dormer extension
For an older property, this can blend seamlessly in with the architecture
Provides the greatest level of extra Headroom when compared to any of the other styles
Invites a lot of natural light into your attic
Cons of a mansard conversions
This type of conversion will almost always require planning permission
Construction time because of the level of complication is always longer
One of the more expensive options
Hip to gable loft conversion
This type of loft conversion is primarily used in detached homes at the end of terraced properties. It's used to create a vertical wall by straightening a slanted end roof. This minor structural change can make an enormous difference to how your loft living space feels. As it falls somewhere between the lower cost of the Dormer and the aesthetics of a Mansard, this type of loft conversion is becoming increasingly popular.
Pros of hip to gable conversions
Can be designed to seamlessly blend with your property making it more ascetically pleasing
Can provide maximum space by combining with your home's rear Dormer
Cons of hip to gable conversions
Cannot be used on a mid terraced property
More expensive than a dormer
If your neighboring property doesn't have one, it can affect the aesthetics of a terrace, and possible impact planning permission
Roof light loft conversion
Roof light conversions will allow you to expand your existing living space without having to make any major alterations. All you have to do is reinforce the attic floor and add windows to provide a wellness and comfortable living space. These are becoming increasingly popular as they're very affordable.
Pros of a roof light conversions
They are a minimum of 25% cheaper than any other option
Easiest to get planning permission for because they require minimum structural changes
If designed correctly, you can add a lot of storage space
Cons of a roof light conversions
Head height space only in the middle of the room
This type of conversion doesn't add any additional space
Adding stairs is usually only possible in the middle of the room
When considering a loft or attic conversion there are several key factors you need to take into consideration including budget planning permission and the style of loft: the best suit your home.