5 June 2012

Different Types of Loft Conversions and How to Choose the One that Suits You

Are you looking for some extra space in your home, and you have got some adjustable space in the form of loft or attic, then you should seriously consider converting your loft into a livable space. But before you get in touch with a loft or attic conversion company, you must read about the different types of loft or attic conversions.


True that the architect or loft conversion company you are contacting will explain all these types along with their pros and cons, but at times these professionals will tend to favor a particular type or design (intentionally or unintentionally) for their own reasons. Doing some research in advance, and weighing different options before you call in a professional is always helpful, because you know your budget and requirements the best, and making these decisions on spur of the moment is not a good idea. After reading about the different types, you will be able to pick out the one that suits you the best, and then you can call the professionals and negotiate from a better position.

Let’s take a look at some of the most common types of loft conversions.

Velux Conversion:

Probably the most simplest and basic form of loft conversion is Velux style conversion. Velux, if you are not already aware, is a popular company with an entire range of products like Roof Windows, Blinds, Shutters, and Sun Tunnel, and because Velux windows are extensively used in this type of conversions, it is known as Velux Loft conversion. When you opt for Velux Conversion, the loft conversion professionals will simply install a floor structure and Velux windows to control the sunlight and heat according to your requirements. The roof stays intact except of course the addition of windows. As you can see, this one is a basic and probably the cheapest form of loft conversion. In most cases, Velux loft conversion wouldn’t require a planning permission, especially if the windows will be installed on the backside of roof (the side that is not facing the road);still you should check with your local authorities because the laws might differ from one place to another.

Dormer Conversion:

Another commonly used type of loft or attic conversion, in Dormer conversion; you can go one step ahead and build a dormer which is an extension on a side of your loft. Dormer conversion will provide you with a bit more space, and you can use Velux windows in the Dormer to manage the sunlight. Dormer Loft conversion will be a little costly as compared to simple Velux Conversions, and you will have to check for the planning permission, especially if you are building the Dormer at thefrontside.

Mansard Loft Conversion:

Mansard is one of the most spacey types of loft conversion, but along with this benefit will come the downsides like heavy costs or extensive construction. Mansard Conversion isquite similarto Dormer conversion, except that in Mansard conversion,the entire side of your loft will get an extension, resulting in lots and lots of space. You should be going for Mansard Loft conversion if you are looking for more than a simple room, as Mansard loft conversion will result in quite some space for your use.

Choosing the One that suits you:

• To choose the one that suits you, you will have to know your requirements, for example if you are looking for a single room, then you should be going for Dormer, and when you are looking for maximum space, then you should be going for Mansard type conversions.
• Another very important factor to consider is of course your budget, a Mansard style conversion will cost a lot more than a simple Veluxstyle conversion, so you need to decide accordingly
• Another thing to mull over is the different time periodsthese types will take, because you will have to bear the noise and disturbance created by the construction work.

Bashir is writes on topics related to home improvement and real estate. He writes for a company providing loft conversion services in Middlesex, Hertfordshire, Essex, and London.

1 comment:

  1. Well, i don't know.. My Kid's room space is really small.. I don't know which one would be better ? :s

    ReplyDelete