Loft conversions are the most economical way of extending a property without using external space. They are a great way to make sure you are utilising all of your property. You could add an extra bedroom, bedroom with en-suite, a home office, or entertainment space. Though most lofts are convertible, it is worth knowing the few restrictions that could oppose your project.
Is My Loft Big Enough?
Having a good-sized space to work with is a great place to start. A good way to calculate how much floor space you have at your disposal is by measuring the whole floor area of the storey below the loft. Most lofts can provide at least 20m2 of gross floor area, which is enough for a double bedroom.
Headroom
What you have to keep in mind is that not all this floor space will be useable. You are at the mercy of your roof, in regard to how much headroom will be available.
You will need at least 2.8m clear vertical space under the highest point of your roof. This may sound like a lot, but you must appreciate the fact that once new floor structure is constructed and the rafters are lined with thick insulation, the available space will shrink.
If most of the available space is restricted to the centre of your roof, a box dormer conversion can be installed; this will greatly increase the useable floor area. This is something Bespoke Construction Group could offer you.
The Staircase
One thing you do not want to overlook is how the stairs to the loft will fit inside your home. Often, the best and most economically efficient place for the loft stairs is above the existing flight.
You are required to have 2m head height above the staircase into the loft conversion. Where your staircase is going to go is a major decision that has to be made.
Fire Regulations
In terms of fire regulations, multi-storey houses face a more serious concern as opposed to a property with two or less floors. When you’ve got more than two existing floors, adding another can bring with it some challenging obstacles, such as, adding external escape stairs or including sprinkler systems.
Two storey houses are much more straightforward, often only requiring an ‘escape corridor’ which leads to the main entrance.
Older Properties
If your home is old, it may not take kindly to new structural alterations without expensive upgrading. Though older roofs (pre-1965) are actually more suited for a loft conversion, newer roofs tend to take up more loft space, meaning more work may need to be carried out in enlarging and extending the roof.
Final Thoughts
Loft conversions are an amazing way to create additional space within your home without the need for creating an extension. It’s also a great way to add value to your property. So, if you’re on the fence about whether or not to go ahead with your loft conversion, please feel free to contact us, we have the right people on hand to help answer any questions you might have. You may be shocked by what we can do for you and your property.