If the space in your home is no longer sufficient to cater to your needs and you do not intend to move to a new house, then a loft conversion may solve the space problem. Converting your loft is a perfect option for adding more living space in your home, but it requires careful planning, and there are several things you need to consider, such as its cost.

The cost of converting your loft will depend on different factors like the available space in your loft, the roof structure, and the changes needed for the staircase. The cost of the interior decoration is another thing you have to factor in.

Some loft conversions may not need permissions, so it is a simple and the most cost-effective option for adding more value and living space to your home. You may decide to get a conversion that doesn’t change your loft structure or conversion, allowing structural changes.

Why loft conversion in the UK

Converting lofts in the UK to extra living spaces is a common project carried out to improve a home, and you should consider converting your loft for the following reasons.

• Adds value

Reliable sources like the Nationwide Building Society and Federation of Master Builders state that converting a loft can increase the property’s value by about 15 – 20%.

• Cost-effective

Converting your loft is a cheap way of increasing your home size, compared to moving to a new home or carrying out a full extension

• Simple project

Converting a loft is simple and requires less stress. In some cases, loft conversions get completed within one week or two.

• Versatile

You can use your converted loft for different purposes, like an extra bedroom, home office, cinema, gym or bathroom.

Prices and costs of converting lofts in the UK

Converting a loft in the UK is a relatively cheap option for adding value to your home and increasing its size. The loft conversion price depends on several things but mostly on the location of the property.  After inspecting your property, you can get a quote for the exact cost of your loft conversion.

A loft conversion for a room in the loft

This loft conversion usually starts from £15,000. Room in the loft is the cheapest and simplest form of a loft conversion. Most times, it involves the following.

• A staircase
• Added insulation
• Fire safety measures
• Heating, lighting, and electrics

This loft conversion’s exact cost will depend on the level of quality needed for each of the above aspects.

Hip to Gable loft extension

A hip-to-gable loft conversion is a common construction, which involves converting the roof’s sloped side to a flat edge to create more space in the loft. Its price varies, depending on the work you want to be done in the loft. However, it could cost between £30,000 – £35,000.

Dormer loft extension

Converting a dormer loft involves extending the loft from the side or back of the roof to form a box shape. Dormers are also known as box or kennel conversion. The cost of converting a dormer loft is about £19,000 – £30,000. However, the exact cost depends on the number of dormers you add.

Cost of changing the roof structure

Changing the structure of a roof is the most expensive and difficult task in converting a loft. It requires removing and rebuilding the roof to create the right shape to accommodate a loft. Changing the structure of a roof requires planning permission which comes at an added cost. On average, changing a roof stricture cost £40,000.

Addition of natural light

Your loft will need natural ventilation and light, so you have to consider a means for natural light to enter your loft—the following natural light options.

• Roof light

This is the simplest way to add natural light to your loft. You could use roof lights that follow your roof’s pitch line.  It requires removing the battens and tiles on the roof to accommodate the roof light after reinforcing the rafters. The next step is fitting the roof light frame and adding flashing before adding finishing touches to the tiling.

Fitting a roof light may not require planning permission, and it is very economical.

Dormer windows

Dormer windows give you natural light and add space to a loft. It is best to use a dormer window when the pitch angle is high to increase the floor area. A mansard type will maximise the roof space because it enhances the available headlight, giving you more floor space. Having a hip-to-gable conversion will provide you with a similar effect.

If you are thinking about a loft conversion London, contact Loft London on 020 7100 5428 to consult our experts on the suitable conversion you need depending on your budget and specification. You would also need sound insulation between your neighbour’s loft and yours and upgrade the existing party wall.