Loft conversions on a budget: 6 important things to know
More space doesn’t only add room but increases your property value. Convert your unused space into a loft. Besides, it’s the least disruptive and simplest space to convert.
Certainly, it’s less stressful and the most cost-effective compared to relocating. Loft conversion rewards you with a light-filled space, giving you a fabulous view of your neighborhood. Most importantly, it improves your home’s insulation and, in the process, lowers your heating bills.
Here are things you should know concerning loft conversion.
1. Safety considerations
Incorporate safety regulations from the onset of your loft conversion. Ensure you use fire-resistant building materials. Go ahead and fit your rooms and hallways with a fire alarm and sprinkler systems.
Use fire doors and provide an emergency exit to your roof if the loft has more rooms. As mentioned by the team behind Proficiency Design and Build, have a building company in London to incorporate this in your design and build ideas for the loft conversion. Also, remember to provide other safety measures too in your design.
2. Access to the loft
Consider the position of your staircase. Expect the loft to take up some space, so find a suitable stair placement to access the attic quickly. Make sure it runs from the existing staircase. Create extensions or use dormers.
If it’s not possible, repurpose the space in the floor below or use an alternating tread staircase or a fixed ladder.
Decide on the things to put in your loft after conversion. Consider the floor space, height, and vertical space. The vertical space should be at least 2.5 m to allow enough headroom for comfortable access.
3. Budget and time
The project requires at least five weeks. Expect the work to be both messy and noisy if you are doing a ground-floor extension. You will use scaffolding until you finish the staircase linking your house to the loft.
Choose a loft conversion design that suits your budget. Remember to budget for the unexpected to accommodate everything.
4. Approvals and permissions
You don’t usually need permission unless you are extending the roof space. Some improvements require planning permission.
Under the building regulation, you need approvals to make loft conversions. It lowers risks and helps you determine if the house requires underpinning for the extra weight. You may need a party wall if your work affects the adjacent property’s wall, ceiling, or floor.
5. Lighting and windows
Pick an appropriate window for the loft to make it livable. The right window allows ample sunlight and ensures optimal aeration. Use windows fitted with trickle vents to enjoy maximum background ventilation.
For example, use dormer windows to provide extra headroom and light. However, it needs planning permission before installation because it alters the house’s interior space. You can use them at the back of your house to avoid the planning permission requirement.
Skylight or top-hung windows are perfect for lofts and are easy to install. They improve the flow of natural light, which brightens the room. Plus, windows open outwards, giving you an uninterrupted view and more space.
6. Insulation
Loft spaces are prone to extreme temperatures. The loft can get extra hot during the summer or very cold during winter. Having good insulation prevents condensation and is a requirement by building regulations.
Use the proper insulation for the ceiling, floors, and walls. Ensure your insulation is 150-250 mm thick to satisfy the building regulations for fire, thermal, and sound insulation. It makes the loft comfortable even during harsh weather.
The most overlooked factor is the company you hire for your loft conversion. Pick a suitable design and build that complements your property. Never use substandard materials to avoid costly repairs and maintenance costs.
Work with professionals to create a customized loft conversion service and complete the project on time. You get help with planning, design, and complete adherence to both building regulations and approvals.