Loft conversions

CREATING A NEW ROOM AT THE TOP OF THE HOUSE WILL NOT ONLY ADD SPACE TO YOUR HOME, BUT CAN ALSO INCREASE ITS VALUE

- AMY CUTMORE

Need more space? There are many good reasons to convert or extend your loft. For a start, it’s possibly the largest square footage of unused space in your home, yet often the least disruptive to convert. Plus it’s certainly more cost-effective than moving house. And all you may need to do is strengthen the floor, insulate and add windows. ‘Interest in loft conversions is increasing as homeowners look to add more space to their properties,’ explains Adrienne Minster of Rated People. ‘Converting your loft can not only provide more space, but it can also add value to your home if you decide to sell.’

ASSESS THE SPACE

There are certain head-height requirements you must adhere to. As a rule of thumb, if you can measure 210cm from the floor to the roof at the tallest part, you have sufficient height for a loft conversion. To make for a comfortable attic room, at least half the loft space should be this high. However, you could consider placing a loo or bathroom under the sloping eaves.

Pre-war buildings with pitched roofs are often the easiest to convert, but there’ll always be structural considerations and most lofts need support from steel beams to strengthen the floor and roof.

THE PLANNING PROCESS