Loft conversions are a stylish and clever way of creating extra space in your home without moving. It is an effective way of making the most of idle space and is much easier to transform into a usable space than the basement. The additional benefit of a loft is that being at the top; you get to see great views and blue skies. Another thing you’ll appreciate is that a loft conversion will add significant value to your home. However, you must be careful when planning a loft conversion and consider various important factors before commencing the project. Some important tips:
Ensure the Loft Space Is Suitable for Conversion
Before you start planning the conversion, you must ensure you have enough space in the loft for the conversion to work. The most important thing to establish is whether there is adequate headroom. According to Fast Plans, a reputed loft conversion company, you need to have a difference of height of at least 2.2 m between the ridge and the floor joist, with at least half the space adhering to this height requirement to make for a comfortable living room or bedroom.
Decide What You Will Use the Loft Space
Depending on what you want to use the loft space for, you should determine the layout and the design. The opportunities are endless – a stylish bedroom, a lounge, a living room, a gym, or even a home office. If you want a new bedroom, you need to figure out whether you have enough space to accommodate the necessary furniture and have an attached bathroom. One way of using space efficiently is a dressing room with a door or a walk-in wardrobe. You can make the plumbing easier by locating the bathroom outside. According to Forbes, an extra bedroom or bathroom is among the most popular home additions.
Find Out If You Require Planning Permission
Typically, most loft conversions do not need planning permission, with some exceptions for listed houses or houses and flats in conservation areas. Carrying out the loft conversion under permitted development rules can make it faster. However, you will still need to obtain a Building Regulations approval and, depending on the conversion type, a Party Wall Agreement with your neighbors.
Check the Building Regulations
You must ensure compliance with the building regulations before commencing a loft conversion project. You will require it for installing a permanent staircase when the conversion is for an office, bedroom, or bathroom. You may consider a spiral staircase or a ladder if the space is tight. Also, plan for pitting in high-quality insulation to keep the space cooler during summer or reduce heat loss during winter. The building material must be fire regulation compliant, and you must have emergency exits and smoke detectors installed.
Conclusion
Proper budgeting for the loft conversion is essential. A good way of estimating the cost is to get comparative quotes from three or more loft conversion companies and allow for contingencies for cost overruns and unplanned expenses. Look into the credentials and experience of the conversion company before signing it up. Read more
