Loft conversions are an excellent way to add space and value to your home. In Bolton, Worsley, Warrington and Wigan, there are several types of loft conversions to choose from, each with its benefits and considerations. Here's a comprehensive guide to the most common types.
7 Types of Loft Conversions
Dormer Loft Conversions
Dormer loft conversions are among the most popular choices in the UK. They involve extending the existing roof vertically, creating additional floor space and headroom. This type of conversion is particularly suitable for homes with limited roof space and can dramatically increase the usable area. One of the main advantages of dormer conversions is that they allow for full-height windows, improving natural light and ventilation in the new space.
However, dormer conversions may require planning permission and can alter the external appearance of the house, which might be a consideration for some homeowners.
Hip-to-Gable Loft Conversions
Hip-to-Gable conversions are ideal for semi-detached or detached properties with a hipped roof (sloping on all sides). This type of conversion extends the sloping side roof to create a vertical wall, maximizing space in properties with hipped roofs. One of the significant benefits of hip-to-gable conversions is that they can be combined with a rear dormer for even more room, making them particularly suitable for bungalows and chalets.
This type of conversion is not suitable for mid-terrace houses and is generally more complex and potentially more expensive than some other types. Despite these considerations, hip-to-gable conversions can provide substantial additional living space when done correctly.
Mansard Loft Conversions
Mansard conversions involve altering the angle of the roof slope, making it almost vertical. They typically run along the entire length of the house, offering the most substantial increase in living area among all conversion types. This versatility makes mansard conversions suitable for most property types, including terraced houses, and they can dramatically change the look of your home.
It's important to note that mansard conversions usually require planning permission due to the significant changes to the roof structure. They are also more expensive due to the extensive structural work involved and can significantly alter the external appearance of the house, which may or may not be desirable depending on your preferences and the local architectural context.
Velux Loft Conversions
Also known as roof light conversions, Velux loft conversions involve installing windows into the existing roof slope without altering the roof structure. This makes them the most cost-effective and least disruptive option for loft conversions. Velux conversions are excellent for bringing natural light into the loft area and usually don't require planning permission, which is a significant advantage for many homeowners.
Velux loft conversion doesn't create additional floor space and offers limited headroom compared to other conversion types. Despite these limitations, velux conversions can be an excellent choice for those looking to enhance their loft space without major structural changes.
L-Shaped Dormer Loft Conversions
L-Shaped dormer loft conversions are a variation of the standard dormer, typically used on Victorian terraced houses. This type combines a rear and side dormer to create an L-shape, maximising space in properties with a rear extension. The main advantage of L-shaped conversions is that they create a larger, more versatile space than a standard dormer and can often accommodate multiple rooms, making them ideal for larger loft conversion projects.
They are more complex and expensive than a standard dormer conversion. Additionally, L-shaped dormers may require planning permission due to their size and impact on the property's appearance, which is an important factor to consider when planning this type of conversion.
Piggyback Loft Conversions
Piggyback loft conversions involve raising the height of the entire roof to create more headroom. This type of conversion can create significant additional space and is often a good option for houses with very low roof pitches where other conversion types might not be feasible.
They are one of the most expensive conversion types due to the extensive structural work required. This work involves removing the entire roof and rebuilding it at a greater height, which is a major undertaking. Because of the significant changes to the property's structure and appearance, piggyback conversions almost always require planning permission, which can add time and complexity to the project.
Modular Loft Conversions
Modular loft conversions are a more recent innovation in the world of loft conversions. These are pre-fabricated conversions that are constructed off-site and then craned into position. The main advantages of modular conversions are their faster installation time compared to traditional conversions and the fact that they can be less disruptive to daily life during construction. They are often more energy-efficient due to their factory construction under controlled conditions.
Modular conversions do have some limitations. They offer limited design flexibility compared to traditional conversions, as they come in pre-designed formats. They may not be suitable for all property types, particularly those with complex roof structures or limited access to cranes. Additionally, while they can save time on-site, modular conversions can be more expensive than some traditional conversion methods due to the manufacturing process and specialized installation requirements.
Get in touch
When considering a loft conversion, it's important to consult with a professional to determine which type is best suited to your property and needs. Our builders in Bolton, Warrington, Worsley and Wigan are here to help you every step of the way. Get in touch by calling us on 07429 519982.
