Loft conversions are one of the leading home improvements people consider for their home. They can add as much as 20% to the value of a home and provide a way of extending living space – perfect for accommodating a growing family without the need to move home.
With more of us working from home than ever, loft conversions in Brighton are increasingly being considered to create a home office area. This is perfect for separating your working and living space and being apart from distractions and disruptions.
Another popular use for a loft conversion is often the addition of an additional bedroom and bathroom, this can make a great guest bedroom or granny annexe to provide accommodation that still provides independence and privacy under your roof.
Whatever your vision for your newly converted loft conversion, there are a few things to consider before you get started. Here is our lowdown on things to consider when planning a loft conversion.
Is Your Loft Suitable For A Conversion?
If you are considering a loft conversion, there are some things you will need to consider. Firstly, you will need to work out if your loft is appropriate for a loft conversion. You can easily do this yourself by measuring the maximum height of the loft area, which must be a minimum of 2.2m to meet building regulations. In most cases you will not need planning permission as they usually fall under permitted development but if you live in a listed building or designated area, it may be required.
Next, you will need to work out the type of roof you have, this will usually depend on the age of the house, but lofts will either have roof trusses or rafters. Rafters run along the edge of the roof leaving a triangular hollow space, while trusses are support that run through the cross section.
It is possible to have a loft conversion with both types, but it is easier with rafters as trusses will need to be replaced with other structural support, making a conversion more complicated.
Next you will also need to consider if you have enough space on the floor below for a staircase to be installed leading to the loft conversion; can you afford to lose space in that area? How would it work into the layout of your home? It is often something overlooked when considering a loft conversion, but well worth considering.
What Type Of Loft Conversion Should You Go For?
Once you have worked out whether your property is appropriate for a loft conversion, you will also need to consider what type of loft conversion you would like. Again, this will depend on how you are considering using the space, whether your home is terraced, semi-detached or detached and the size of your loft space.
The three most common types of loft conversion are roof light, dormer and hip to gable.
Roof Light Conversion – This is the cheapest and least disruptive type of loft conversion and consists of adding skylights for daylight, laying a suitable floor and building in a staircase. This is ideal if you have a large loft already as it will need to provide sufficient living space. With this type of conversion the walls will usually be angled, so sufficient headspace is required.
Dormer Loft Conversion – A dormer loft conversion provides an extension to the loft area protruding from the slope of the roof. They help to add headroom and floor space, making for a more practical and liveable space. They are usually added to the rear of the property but can also be added to the side or front of the property pending planning permission. They can either be single or extend across the full width of the roof to maximise space. Because of the different types of dormer available, there is usually a style that can be added to most types of homes.
Hip To Gable Loft Conversion – A Hip to Gable loft conversion is only suitable for a detached or semi-detached home as it involves extending a sloping hip roof at the side of the property outwards – creating a vertical gable wall. The roof is extended over these gables to create additional floor and headspace.
Building Regulations
While you will not normally need planning permission for a loft conversion, you will need to follow building regulations. These will include ensuring the structural strength of the floor, stability of the structure, safe escape from fire, safely designed stairs to the new floor, adequate height and reasonable sound insulation.
You will also need to consider elements such as thermal insulation, sound insulation, heating, electrical supply, windows, ventilation and lighting. Your loft conversion supplier will be able to help and advise on this and suggest the best solutions.
Choosing A Reliable Loft Conversion Specialist
Finally, before any work can begin, you need to find a reliable supplier of loft conversions in Brighton. At The Brighton Loft Company, we have helped transform hundreds of homes across the Brighton area building a reputation as one of the best loft conversion companies in the area.
We ensure we provide full attention to each and every client, so only ever take on three clients at a time, so we can be available for any of your questions and can provide you with regular progress updates on your conversion. We will even take care of the building regulations and any planning permissions for you.
If our guide has helped you and you would like to find out more or consult us for a free quote for a loft conversion, please get in contact. We will be happy to answer any questions you have and book you in for a consultation.
FAQ’s
How much does a loft conversion cost?
The price of your loft conversion will really depend on the type of conversion you get and the amount of work that needs to be done, but most loft conversion are between £30-50k. We can provide you with a quote following an initial site survey and discussion with you about the type of conversion you are looking for. We are happy to work with you to adjust this to include or remove any elements to fit your budget and need, simply contact us to start your journey.
We only charge you for the work we have done, so you will only receive a bill once each stage of the conversion is complete.
How long does a loft conversion take?
Again, the length of time it takes to complete your loft conversion in Brighton will depend on the size, layout and requirements of the loft conversion. We will provide you with an estimate when we draw up your plans, but the average time is between eight and ten weeks.
As well as reshaping or extending the roof, the floor will need to be fitted, walls insulated, electrics fitted, plumbing installed if necessary and the building of the staircase. We aim to provide as little disruption to your home or neighbours as possible with work primarily confined to the loft space.
Do you have examples of your previous work?
Yes of course, you can take a look at our work from previous projects and see what a transformative effect it can have to a loft space, creating beautiful new living areas and naturally creating additional space. You will see just how smoothly they can complement your home.
In our portfolio, you will see case studies from our previous projects and clients and see first-hand how we worked with them to make their vision a reality. We have provided examples of a variety of different loft conversions in Brighton that we have worked on so you can get an idea of the benefits of each one.
