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Sussex Downs
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LOFTS
Different Types of Loft Conversions in the UK
If you have decided to explore the option of converting your loft space into another living space, you may find yourself a little overwhelmed with the different types of loft conversions available. There are various options to choose from for varying budgets and suitability to the space available.
When researching your loft conversion, you should be familiar with the type of roof you have. If your home is pre 1965, it is likely you have a traditional cut rafter and purlin roof, these are easier to convert than more modern post 1965 roofs which are likely to be the modern trussed roof – which can be more difficult to convert and may need further structural support.
You will also need to consider the height and space of your loft area, is there enough room to stand comfortably? Is there enough space to use the area as a functional space? What do you envision using the space for? There are many different types of loft conversion but generally you’ll want to gain the maximum space that your property type will allow.
We have helped break down the most common types of loft conversions in the UK for you to read through below to help you decide what might be the most suitable option for you – this will often depend on the loft height and space available, but we are happy to advise and guide you based on our years of knowledge. We will only recommend the most suitable option for your vision.
Dormer
A dormer loft conversion is the reshaping of the roof to give a greater internal height and space, and is the most popular type of loft conversion in the UK.
Within your dormer conversion we can often find the space for at least one bedroom and an en-suite bath or shower room. This is why this a dormer loft conversion remains one of the most common types of loft conversion as it makes it ideal for creating an additional bedroom in your home.
All our dormers are clad with a built up felt flat roofs to give the best protection from the elements. Typically, they have Velux roof light windows on the front face of the roof and full sized UPVC windows at the rear.
Dormers are normally situated at the back or side of your property, although you may have noticed some properties around Brighton with dormers on the front face of the roof. However, these types of loft conversions have various restriction on them, and so would need planning permission which is becoming increasingly hard to obtain.
Dormer conversions are kept light and airy by utilizing Velux roof lights in combination with full sized UPVC windows at the rear.
Hip to Gable
A Hip to Gable conversion is typically only suitable for detached, semi-detached and end of terrace properties. It involves extending the hip line of your roof to form a new gable end.
These types of loft conversions increase your roof space and so give a greater area for conversion. Often the new gable end will also allow your new staircase to be installed directly above your existing one, maximizing usable floor space as well as creating flow through your home.
We have found that we are often able to find the space for two decent sized bedrooms and a bath or shower room within a hip to gable conversion.
Roof Light
A Velux or Roof Light Conversion is converting your loft without changing the roofs existing profile.
Only a small amount of alterations are required to the roof structure. This is one of the simplest types of loft conversions and hence a great option for those looking for more space on a budget. However, they aren’t suitable for all loft spaces as good existing head height in the loft is essential.
How we work at Sussex Downs Construction
- Firstly you to make contact with us here or through our contacts page and one of our team will get back to you.
- We will then agree a time to visit your property and discuss which type of loft conversion is best suited to you space and help you decide whether you need a dormer, Velux or hip to gable style loft conversion. You can have a look at some of Pinterest boards for inspiration or take a look at some of our previous projects here.
- Once we’ve helped you draw up the plans and bring your dream to life we will agree on timeline and work flow for the build so you can plan what you do while we’re in the space.
- We provide an all-in-one-package which means we do EVERYTHING; from plasters to plumbers. ** We can also help with finding painter decorators or help build bespoke storage.
- As our construction team work on transforming your loft space you will be able to have weekly meetings make sure everything is on track. This is your opportunity to tell us if you need us to put you in touch with people for additional services like painters and decorators.
- Voila, your space is transformed! But that's not the end...
- We operate a no snags policy, which means you won't make the final payment until both of us are happy that your loft is fully finished and ready for your family!
Ready To Start New Project With Us?
Embark on your next project with confidence! Sussex Downs Construction is ready to turn your vision into reality. Let’s build something exceptional together.
"We are very pleased we went with Sussex Downs Construction. A great team, who were tidy, polite, friendly and helpful throughout. Any queries were answered in a timely manner and they gave good advice along the way. After a small number of snagging issues were resolved (as expected in any big project) we are very happy with the end result and would not hesitate to recommend Gilles and his team at SDC."