Introduction To Loft Conversions

Types of Loft Conversions

	Dormer Loft Conversion Dormer loft conversions create extra space in your loft. Front dormers are generally smaller than rear dormers to maintain the aesthetics of a building. Rear dormers can run the width of the roof and create the most space. Planning permission is not always required for dormers.
	Roof Light / Velux Loft Conversion Roof light / Velux conversions work with the space already in your loft. It is unusual for these conversions to require planning permission.
	Hip To Gable Loft Conversion Hip to gable conversions replace the hip of the roof (the sloped edge) with a gable end. Hip to gable conversions require more work but can create a lot more space.

It is not unusual to combine these types of loft conversion when converting attic space. A common approach is to build dormers to the rear of the property, install velux windows on the front of the property and increase the lofts width by converting hip ends of the roof to gable ends.

Roof trusses and loft conversions

Houses use a truss frame to support the roof. The roof trusses often take up a lot of space in the loft and may lead you to think that you can not use the space. However it is possible to convert a truss roof by replacing the existing trusses with steal trusses that do not protrude into the loft space.

Considerations for Loft Conversions

When converting a loft the following things need to be taken into consideration

• Roof - Typically changes to the roof to support either dormer or roof lights will require an engineers design to show how the existing roof structure will support the modifications.
• Floors - In general existing ceiling joists will not support an additional floor above. This may mean that additional support will be required to ensure the new space has a solid floor and wont adversely affect the rest of the structure.
• Walls - Any new floor must be fully supported by load bearing walls. Under the Party Wall Act of 1996 it is necessary to give notice to adjoining properties for some types of work on shared walls.
• Stairs - The new floor must have adequate access for fire and health and safety considerations. Straight flights of stairs are the preferred type if there is enough space. Spiral staircases, Ladders and alternating tread stairs can be used when space is an issue. Steps should have a tread area of at least 22cm and rise no more that 22cm with a pitch of no more than 42 degrees. Stair width is more flexible with no major restrictions however remember that you may want to get bulky furniture up and down the stairs. Stairs should have at least 2 meters of head room.

Want To Know More About Loft Conversions?

• Introduction To Loft Conversions

• Planning Permission And Loft Conversions

• Building Regulations And Loft Conversions

• Raising Finance For A Loft Conversion

• Links And Further Reading On Loft Conversions

Amazing Space will be happy to help you with every stage of your loft conversion but to help you understand just what is involved we have compiled some useful information you may want to know when converting your loft.

View our loft conversion video