A loft conversion is one of the most popular ways of converting your non-functional and non-usable roof space into something functional, like an accommodation space or storage space.
The terms loft and attic are often used interchangeably; however, they are very different from each other. The term attic is used for the entire story of the building that is present under the roof. The term loft refers to one of the spaces or rooms that is present beneath the roof.
Traditionally loft conversions were used as a way to convert the space beneath your roof into a small room that could be used for daily operations. However, with the advent of technology and exploration, there are so many different ideas that can be put into a loft conversion.
In today’s time, a loft conversion can be turned into something amazing that can leave you in awe of the place. It can add plenty of natural light to the space, increase the living and usable space, add aesthetics to your house, and work as your relaxation room.
Some of the most popular loft conversion ideas that are being adopted by people in today’s time are,
With Covid-19 changing the way people work and work from home taking over our work lives, a home office is a great addition to the house. If you have a home office setup, the transition from work in the office to work from home is not a difficult one for you.
With the current pandemic situation, this transformation is going to be a long-lasting one, and therefore, the loft conversion to a home office can be the perfect separation between your living space and the workspace.
Some of the common benefits of a home office loft conversion are,
● It provides a dedicated space without any distractions.
● It adds to the value of the house.
● It saves time for traveling to the office.
To avoid cluttering the loft with things that don’t make sense, there are a few ideas that one can stick to, to avoid losing the eye-appealing essence of the home office. These are,
● Build into nooks
A loft converted office will have a lot of nooks all across the room. You can plan your shelves and tables in a way that complements those and is cut in a way that they are suited better in those spaces.
● Multi-task your space
It is not necessary to convert the entire loft into a home office. You can also accompany it with a small bed, sofa, or you can even build two rooms in that place one of which could be your office and the other your comfort zone.
● Add space for natural light
You mustn’t underestimate the importance of natural light while you are building and designing the loft. Plenty of natural light can add to the productivity of your work, and also reduce the stress on your eyes.
● Add colors
The right colors can also add to your productivity as they can make you feel calm and relaxed. Color coding can also be done to enhance the office and it also makes it easier for you to find stuff.
Adding other features like lights inside the office, adding insulation and heating systems, and enough spaces for storage are some of the major considerations that one should make while converting your loft into a home office.
As your family grows, the stuff that you have to store in the house starts to multiply too. Earlier the house might seem to be spacious and clutter-free, but as time passes there can be a lot of stuff that needs to be stored properly.
Converting your loft into a storage space is the solution to control the overcrowding of stuff and the overflowing boxes as well.
You can start the process by asking yourself certain generic questions about your storage needs that will help you understand what exactly you want. This will help you better plan your loft conversion design. Later, you can also measure the available space to ensure that your expectations and the plan match the criteria of the space that the loft has to offer.
The next step is to decide what kind of loft conversion you want for your future storage space. You can go as simple as the simple loft boarding loft conversion process or as luxurious as the non-habitable loft conversion process.
Check the budget of the entire process and see if it fits your pocket. There are many other options that you can decide on if the process exceeds your budget, as there are multiple loft conversion options available for a storage option.
The last step would be to either DIY the whole project or hire a professional to help quickly and efficiently perform the entire procedure. Once your storage space is built, all you have to do is get those boxes into the room and organize them in your new storage space!
With the pressure of the ongoing pandemic, it can be highly exhausting to not have a space where you feel at peace. Having a dedicated room in your house where you can go sit and relax all by yourself is an amazing addition.
A loft conversion is one of the most suitable ways to do so. All you have to do is plan what you want to have in your relaxation room and this conversion can guarantee you get what your soul wants.
Some of the additions that you can make to enhance the entire space of the l0ft to give it the aesthetics of the relaxation room are,
● Sound system
Adding a sound system or even installing speakers in the loft allows you to play calming and meditative music which can help you relax. It will be your getaway from all the noise of the city and your house.
It will keep you away from the distraction of the housework and people, and help you gain peace and tranquility.
● Uncluttered space
The idea of a cluttered and full space can be frustrating and irritating for some people. It can be distracting for some people. Having a space that is clutter-free and spacious will help you gain peace and keep you stress-free.
● Calm and serene paint colors
Aside from the furniture and other additions to the room, you might want to keep the colors of the walls and other surrounding materials in a light and calm tone. As the color of the room affects your mood, it is essential to choose colors that elevate your mood and make you feel stress-free.
You can choose the theme as light or dark depending on what makes you feel good and happy.
● Bring nature to your relaxation room
Adding some natural elements to your room can be soothing and healing at the same time. Meditating and relaxing are all about letting yourself lose and connecting with nature and surroundings.
Adding small plants, shells, or even a small water fountain can all integrate into a harmonious experience.
● Natural lighting
Plenty of natural light will make you feel warm and cozy. You want to consider adding windows that help diffuse light into the room.
There are many other ideas that you can consider adding adding to your loft according to what suits you the best!
Loft conversions are one of the best possible ways of converting unused space in your house into something that you have been wanting forever. A loft conversion can be a game-changer for the property, as it adds value along with the benefit of providing you with extra usable space. In a study by Abbey Lofts in London, they found that the increase in value of the house after a loft conversion was almost 25%.
It is one of the smartest and most innovative ways of renovating your property; therefore, it requires extra consideration on your part. It is a fairly sizable and expensive project and has got hundreds of different points to consider before actually going through with it.
The loft conversion project is not straightforward because of the major building work and the amount of investment made in the project. Therefore, exploring all the things that could go wrong and others that would make it a successful and worthy investment are important.
Here are some questions that you should ask yourself before making up your mind about a loft conversion in your home,
Is your loft suitable for a conversion?
Assessing your loft’s suitability for conversion before you cash into your attic is important, as it helps you put numerous factors into consideration, including,
Measuring from the top of floor joists to the bottom of the ridge beam, there should be a minimum of 2.2 meters of headroom available for a loft conversion to be suitable. The limit is often set to 2.4 meters to avoid any feelings of being trapped in a small box later.
If the headroom available is less than 2.2 meters, there are some options available for the loft conversion to happen, but they are costly and time-consuming.
Traditional frame-type structures and steep roofs make the conversion an easy process as they allow for more space. Also, ensure to measure the angle of the roof, as the higher the pitch angle, the higher the central head height of the room will be.
The rafters of the roof might be required to strengthen with additional supports as with a loft conversion the weight that the original rafters were supporting increases manifolds.
The presence of water tanks and chimney stacks is a common problem in older homes. You must turn their locations into an advantageous one for yourself so that your loft conversion turns out to be obstruction-free.
What will be the cost of a loft conversion?
A spacious and well-heightened loft will automatically reduce the costs involved in the conversion. It makes the installation of large beams and rafters easier, without any major construction job.
The important factors that affect the costs of a loft conversion are.
Along with the costs involved in the loft conversion, the costs required to cover any damage or additional work required in the lower levels of the house are also considered.
Some of the additional costs involved in the entire conversion project are,
What are the building regulations that you need to keep in mind?
Unlike planning permissions, building regulations are a must when you are converting a loft. These regulations ensure that the construction work complies and conforms with the minimum safety and performance standard guidelines.
A building control surveyor inspects the site and checks for the following,
You can entail building regulation approvals in two possible ways,
Once the plan is confirmed and approved, you receive a completion certificate that gives you the green light to go through with the project.
Are planning permissions required?
Most of the conversions are straightforward and thus, don’t require planning permissions; however, sometimes, the procedure of conversion does not fall under the Permitted Developments. In such cases, planning permissions are a must to proceed further.
There are certain parameters that you will need to consider to figure out if you need planning permissions or not, like the total volume of additions, the roof height, dormers, or any other extensions that you are getting, etc.
In case you are confused about whether you need to apply for planning permissions or not, your builder, architect, or the supervisor you hired can help you understand better.
Who should you hire to accomplish your loft conversion?
While you plan the conversion, hire a professional architect or designer. He or she might help in getting better options and understanding. Choosing the right people is necessary as it affects the entire project.
Some of the options are,
They are professional people and will prepare designs and drawings for you. They will make it easier for you to understand the project and also get approvals for the same as and when required.
These companies are your one-stop-shop for all your loft conversion requirements. They have separate departments that will work in coordination with one another to bring your dreams to reality with the utmost dedication and creative mindset.
Not all, but, certain builders have experience with conversions, and they might be able to provide you with the required insight and understanding for the project.
For hiring the best builder, architect, or company, you should check credentials, reviews, and explore their past work. This gives you a better understanding of selecting the very best for your dream project.
For a fair estimation of the costs, get at least a minimum of three quotes from them. Go online, check for accreditations, and ask for recommendations to hire the best.
What are some of the other vital things to keep in mind?
The ideal location to install the staircase is either in line with the roof ridge or have it as access run from the existing stairwell. If these options are not viable with your plans, you can look out for other options while bearing in mind that you don’t lose too much space that your loft conversion is no longer worthwhile.
In reality, the actual position and plans related to the staircase depend upon the layout and design of the floor.
Parts of your floor and ceiling will need up-gradation in their joists to support the additional weight that comes with the conversion. There are many ways to approach the same, either you can add additional joists to the existing ones, or in some cases, you just add completely new joists.
If there is limited space, the idea of thick joists should be avoided as they will decrease the available room height.
To enjoy the area of your attic with utmost comfort, it is essential to insulate the loft. Your roof and the floor need to be insulated carefully, as they are checked by the building authorities to ensure that maximum energy-saving methods are in use. Some of the common ways of doing the same are,
The space between the rafters is filled with 70mm thick slab foam insulation that also ensures that there is a space of 50mm left between the insulation and the roofing felt.
100mm thick Celotex rafters are used over the roof that is followed by tiles and tile battens. It is most commonly used with dormer options and flat roofs.
The insulation of the floor can be achieved by lying thick carpets between the joists.
To maintain good air quality and avoid any breathing problems, it is imperative to keep the loft as ventilated as you can. The loft is made airtight to maximize energy efficiency, but at the same time, it becomes essential to introduce ways that allow for air exchange with the outer surroundings.
Immediate ventilation can be provided via windows, background through tiles and walls, and areas like bathrooms and kitchen require exact ventilation mechanisms.
A safe means of escape in any kind of emergency is a must when building a loft and also from the perspective of getting approvals from the building regulations committee. There are no existing ways of escaping while you convert your one-story house to a multi-story house with the loft conversion project. This means that you need to additionally keep your focus on creating a safe escape route for the same.
Some of the common yet effective methods that you can opt for are,
Keeping this checklist in mind will drive a successful and beautiful loft conversion for you!
We all know that loft conversion is a smart solution to any space concerns in your house. However, there are a lot of regulations and permits that one needs to go through to reach the project’s completion. In these, there also lies fire safety regulations that are extremely important and should be one of your major concerns while getting a loft conversion.
Fire regulations are so significant as they are concerned with the safety of the people. They are not very complicated, and it is essential to ensure your house’s compliance with them.
Before we discuss the fire safety regulations, the Part B of Building Regulations makes it necessary to install certain mechanisms to ensure the safety of people. Some of them are,
Some of the requisite loft conversion fire safety regulations that you should be aware of are -
Transforming all doors into fire doors is an essential process while doing a loft conversion. Building regulations state the necessity of the creation of a safe fire door to the outside of the house. It is suggested to have an accessible fire escape route, other than windows for floors above the first one. Therefore, it is crucial to have fire doors and a planned escape route to the outside of the house.
Building regulations have now allowed people to keep doors without self-closers, as some people don’t like the aesthetics of its look. Though, self-closing doors are recommended for maximum safety. Fire doors typically have thicker construction than standard doors.
Historically, it has been observed that fire doors are not very attractive to look at; however, with time, style and elegance have been a part of the modern-day fire door designs. Fire doors are generally heavy, but when placed correctly they can open and close without much effort.
According to the Building Regulations, smoke alarms are mandatory. Ideally, a smoke alarm should be installed on every floor of the house to ensure the safety of the people in case of any fire. These alarms are supposed to be installed at a distance of approximately 7.5-8 meters from the habitable space.
There are a few points to keep in mind with the smoke alarm system. These are -
It is considered safe to have an escape route through the staircase, as it is unsafe to escape through the window beyond the first floor. Building Regulations state that this route including the staircase, if any, should have a fire-resistance of 30 minutes. The entire escape route might need plaster boarding and plastering below to ensure maximum fire safety.
The protected house escape route for single-storey homes -
The fire regulations are simpler for single-storey houses than double-storey. A mains-powered smoke alarm interlinked at both levels is necessary. Apart from these, you need an escape window in every room of the house on the first floor.
The escape window needs to have the following specifications -
The protected house escape route for double-storey homes -
The escape route from your loft to the outside is mainly through the hallway and staircase, so this area needs to be as protected as it can be from the fire. For a double-storey house, this can be achieved by
Based on the construction of your property, there are some other considerations that one needs to make to contain the fire. Party walls between the neighbor and your house should be made fire-resistant. Fire-resistant curtains are also a measure that you can take.
Apart from these, fire extinguishers can be kept in a visible and accessible place to help diminish small fires.
Sprinkler systems are not mandatory; however, you can install one for additional safety. Before installing one, just make sure to keep these points in mind -
There are a variety of sprinklers available and you can choose the one that suits your budget and the property’s requirements.
You cannot get away without getting proper fire safety regulations in place as the loft will be inspected to ensure that all the measures are followed. Working with a professional expert can help you get hold of the best ideas and measures that will keep you and your property safe.
If you ever consider the option of a loft conversion, a significant aspect that needs your attention is the flooring of the loft. The entire interior of the loft is important as it adds an aesthetic and warm vibe to the room; however, if you work right with your flooring, you will not have to worry about it looking out of sync with the entire room’s decor.
Even if your loft is already boarded with the best materials possible, you would still need to reinforce them with stronger materials and joists. This eventually means the scraping and digging out of the entire floor, which provides you the perfect opportunity to do whatever you want with the new flooring.
You can use the opportunity to cable the space if you want. Before flooring, you can consider laying down the wires of any new connections that you might be thinking of getting. After this, choose a flooring option that enhances the entire look of the room.
Some of the most common types of flooring that you can choose from are,
Solid wooden flooring -
Solid wooden flooring is the best option when you are opting for a modern setting in your loft. It creates an appearance of quality and is a viable option to cover exposed beams and joists. There is a wide range of colors and materials to choose from that fit with the atmosphere of the room.
Some of the solid hardwood flooring options that you can select from are,
The Pros of this type of flooring is,
The cons of wooden flooring are,
The warmth of carpet flooring -
A carpet flooring under the feet gives a soft and warm feeling. This type of flooring is especially useful when the loft is converted into a bedroom or a living room, making the place feel more cordial and safe.
You can select a carpet that blends and matches the entire color scheme of your loft and makes you feel cozy at the same time. There are a lot of choices concerning textures, materials, colors, etc. Some of the carpet flooring options that you can choose from are -
Pros -
Cons -
Laminate your flooring -
Laminate flooring is an even better option than actual solid wood flooring as it gives you more options to choose from.
Pros -
Cons -
The tiling stories -
With a lot of varieties to choose from, these make a good flooring option for a loft. The tiles are laid down to create a regular geometric pattern. Some of the tiles that you can consider choosing are,
Pros -
Cons -
Before starting the work on the flooring of the loft, it is ensured that it is up to code and safe. The headspace in a loft decides the usable space in your loft. In many areas, there is a fixed requirement for the ceiling length, and anything less than that is not permitted. The flooring plans vary with the amount of usable space available in the loft.
The transmission of noise should be considered beforehand especially, when the members staying up there would be playing, working, etc. A quieter and more delicate surface on the floors will act as a good buffer to the noise of footsteps, voices, etc.
Flooring is not a complex procedure if the right methods are used. It can add value, aesthetics, and a whole new vibe to your loft. Choose it wisely and get floor-boarded today!
Cost of a Loft Conversion in 2021
Introduction:
Keeping your possessions and aged, discarded items in storage is not the easiest way to make use of unused space in your house. Why not turn the lofts into bedrooms or dining areas for homeowners who are still undecided on what to do about them? Yes, loft conversions are costly, but they can be a cheaper option than buying a new home.
Loft Conversion London is a fantastic place to start. We provide you with up-to-date and comprehensive updates about everything you need to know about converting your loft, from loft conversion stairs to loft conversion preparation approval. We'll come up with a design for the most stunning loft conversion based on what you tell us about your home and your needs. We are one of the best loft conversion companies in the region and ensure to be affordable.
What is a loft conversion?
A loft conversion is a method of converting a loft (or attic space) into additional living space, thus increasing the value and usefulness of your home. Your builder can either repair your roof to make more room or simply install a frame on top of your current roof, depending on the style of loft conversion you choose. This loft conversion is a cost-effective way to add space to your home, and you can do anything you want with it. It can be used as an extra space, a children's playroom, a gaming room, or an indoor theatre, among other things.
The time it takes to complete a loft conversion is about 5-6 weeks, depending on the style and configuration of the loft conversion. A loft conversion is more of an investment than a cost since the property value rises by an average of 20% as a result of the lofted space, and when you sell the building, you get all of your money back plus 20% more.
Loft conversion possibilities:
Pre-assemble loft conversions and built loft conversions are the two most common styles of loft conversions. These factory-built loft conversions are disassembled. These ready-to-assemble lofts are available for purchase and assembly at your place. The time it takes to put these lofts together is almost half that of building a room. Construction is the most popular form of loft conversion, and you'll need to employ a contractor and an architect to draw up plans and get started. The builders erect dorms, extend walls, and make plans for making the roof habitable.
Is a Loft Conversion Need Planning Permission?
One of the most commonly asked questions is whether or not we need permission when it comes to loft conversions. Yeah, you must stick to particular parameters in certain situations, but not always. If you want to expand the area above what the PD (Permitted Development) allows, you'll need to apply for planning permission. The same is true if your house is in a contentious neighborhood. Another factor to bear in mind is that while PD permits dormers and roof lighting, they must not be placed ahead of the main elevation or roof plane. They're even not expected to stand higher than the house's tallest roof. Aside from that, you are free to continue with your loft conversion project as you wish.
What are the advantages of converting your loft?
Living in the same house can feel monotonous, and you will choose to move to a new place and do new stuff as time passes. If you're expecting a change and the first thought that springs to mind is that you should move. Moving to a new venue, on the other hand, could be expensive.
When relocating to a new place, you must take into account several considerations in addition to the living conditions. You'll need to find colleges, clinics, food stores, emergency care, and other necessities. Rather than going through all of this hassle, it is preferable to have a room lofted.
How Much Does It Cost to Convert a Loft?
The second most common query we get from our customers, after determining which rules and regulations to be enforced, is how much will a loft conversion cost? So, there you have it. This depends on several variables. First and foremost, we must assess the current roof configuration. Apart from that, we'll need to look at your venue and any coworking ideas you have. The expense would primarily be determined by the home designs you choose. There would be a fair understanding of cost until a schematic of designs has been developed. We provide a free site survey and estimate to provide you with more information. If you simply need more rooms, the cost would range between 15000 and 25000 euros. However, if you want a livable room, you'll have to pay a little more.
A loft conversion is a huge investment, so think wisely about the right choice for your property form and budget before you go ahead with it. Here are some important price considerations:
Is it a cost or an investment to convert your loft?
As a result of the loft conversion, your home's value will increase. Your home becomes more unique after you transform it. Almost all lofted homes are appealing and sell quickly. This will help you make money in the long run. As a result, turning a loft into a living room is a financial investment rather than a loss.
Types of loft conversion:
A loft conversion is a trend in which we renovate an extra room in your house and transform it into what you like and use. Loft conversions can be done in a variety of ways.
The positive thing about loft conversions is that they come in a variety of styles to fit any budget. It all depends on what you want to do with your loft conversion and your budget.
Dormer Loft Conversion:
For those with pitched roofs, this method of conversion is suitable. If you go for a dormer loft upgrade, one of your roof's slopes would be converted into a box-shaped frame. Since this structure has a flat roof, homeowners would be able to have tall furniture and large windows. Since this form of conversion necessitates a full overhaul and many internal renovations, a typical conversion will cost anything between £25,000 to £50,000. It will cost between £40,000 and £75,000 to convert an L-shaped dormer.
Loft Conversion with Rooflights:
If you want to let more light into your loft, a roof light loft conversion may be the best choice. Floor reinforcement, plasterboarding, insulation, and floodlight construction are only a few of the many tasks involved. Roof light conversions make it possible to keep changes to the minimum. As a result, you won't have to pay for intensive electrical maintenance, plumbing, and other services. The estimated cost of this conversion in the United Kingdom is between £15,000 and £25,000.
Mansard Loft Conversion :
This style of loft conversion, like a dormer loft conversion, creates a flat-roof space. However, since the exterior walls are slightly slanted, it is slightly noticeable. Mansard loft conversions bring an additional story to homes, allowing them to be extended. This form of conversion is typically large and necessitates planning consent. Furthermore, it is currently the most expensive loft conversion alternative, ranging from £40,000 to £70,000.
Hip to Gable Loft Conversion :
Roof slopes are common in detached homes. A vertical brick wall will replace a roof slope in a hip-to-gable loft conversion. To optimize the room, this conversion style can be combined with a dormer loft conversion. The roof modifications are more substantial than dormer transformations. A hip-to-gable conversion will cost anything from £32,000 to £60,000.
The cost of conversion would be determined by a variety of factors:
Loft conversions require a variety of considerations, each of which contributes to the final cost. Homeowners in more populated and busier regions should face higher prices as well. This will assist you in estimating the cost of a loft conversion. When it comes to ensuring that your extension is worth your money, consulting a reputable local estate agent is your best bet.
Conversions of lofts based on the form of property:
The cost of your loft conversion is also determined by your home. Homes constructed before the 1960s, for instance, have fewer roof trusses, making them easier to convert and potentially saving money. Steel beams are more common in modern houses and are more complex to deal with. However, a professionally completed loft conversion that complies with building codes will bring considerable value to your home, making it well worth the investment.
What are some of the secret costs of loft conversions?
If you're curious why your loft conversion quote is so much higher than you expected, it's most likely because you haven't factored in all the hidden costs. Additional costs for surveying, ventilation, window construction, and interior work add up quickly. It's important to negotiate all future fees with your provider upfront so that you're well aware of the costs.
Is it worthwhile to invest in a loft conversion?
A loft conversion is an excellent way to increase the value and space of your home without needing to relocate. There are several advantages of having a loft renovation, whether your family is expanding or you need a new home office. Make sure you hire a reputable, supervised firm to do the job and they can ensure that it is done to a good standard, increasing the value of your house.
Conclusion:
Loft conversions are becoming more common, and you can now find a beautiful lofted space almost anywhere. These loft conversions are affordable and provide many advantages. If you're considering transforming your loft, make sure you employ a reputable firm. You can find reviews and inspiring stories from our customers since Loft Conversion London has some of the best facilities.
We all love some extra space, and practically every household struggles to find that and balance with perfection. 'Lofft Conversion London' can help you to implement incredible solutions according to your needs by adding some benefit to this. You can revamp your home, but the loft conversion is one of the best ways to take it all to the new level of extra space.
Below we are highlighting the main benefits of loft conversion -
Dormer and l-shaped dormer loft conversion - A simple flat roof dormer conversion, is the most popular one. It is an extension to the existing roof and projects vertically from a slanted roof, which creates additional floor space and headroom within the property.
Mansard and l-shaped mansard loft conversion - The best-suited conversion for the rear of the property. It has a back wall sloping flat roof, that significantly changes to the roof shape and structure at an angle of 72 degrees. Mansard and l-shaped mansard loft conversion open up space and add more value to your property.
Hip to gable loft conversion - Suitable for the end of terrace and detached homes, a hip to gable loft conversion levels a naturally slanted end roof to create a vertical wall. It's becoming an increasingly popular option for homeowners.
Roof light or Velux Loft Conversion - In a roof light conversion you can add windows and reinforce the floor to convert an attic into a comfortable living space, without altering or expanding the existing space.
Many loft conversions can be done as approved construction, but are subject to a number of restrictions. It also depends on the type of property you own, and whether any authorized improvements in the house have already been completed.
Have a maximum volume of 50 cubic meters (40 for terraced houses)
Not to extend beyond the existing roof space plane
Not to be higher than the highest part of the existing roof
Be built with materials that blend into the existing house.
Not have any verandas, balconies or elevated platforms.
Switch to the original eaves as far as possible (at least 20 cm)
Using dark glazing for any side-facing window or for any opening 1.7 m above the floor.
House extension London is a certified designing company comprising a full-fledged service and creating inspiring spaces and safe environments to live, for clients. Contact us to enhance your enjoyment of your home and its value. A million of homeowners have utilized their loft space to get more area out of their property.
Bathrooms once had the most basic functions, and that was to facilitate bathing. The bathrooms were small and had no showers. There were concrete tiles and had a primary drainage system to reduce the outflow of water. The whole perception of bathrooms has changed, and these bathrooms are a space where people seek comfort and wish to relax while fulfilling the common aim, that is, to have a bath.
We have luxury pools with inbuilt geysers, huge bathtubs, high-pressure water jets, and even inbuilt television sets and music systems to allow all kinds of activities while inside the bathroom.
We are here to help you design part of the perfect bathroom and help you avoid any mistakes.
The costs involved with getting a perfect bathroom
You should create a budget and estimate all the expenses that you are expected to incur. This will give a rough idea of which things to include and what to ignore.
If you are planning to renovate the bathroom entirely, you should focus on the planning layouts. The change in arrangements can completely change the look of the bathroom and can also increase the expenses.
Working with Space -
It is essential to assess the space and then think about the furniture that you can include. If you have a huge bathroom, it can consist of a walk-in rainforest shower, jacuzzi bath, jack and Jill sinks, and even a hot sauna.
If you have limited space, you will have to cut back on the furniture and interior and make the best use of the available space.
The interior and lighting -
The key to creating a perfect bathroom is to focus on all aspects and essential elements in the interior. The small factors like the tiles' design, the interior decorations, and the lighting play a significant role.
You should pay attention while purchasing tiles because some tiles are too sensitive and start to corrode when you polish them with bleach or cleaning agents. You should make sure that you are using the right products to clean the tiles. The tiles shouldn't be too smooth or too rough.
Lighting is also an essential factor because you have to decide to include artificial light or make provisions to allow sunlight to light up the bathroom. Having proper lighting helps in creating the perfect aesthetic environment and helps to relax. You can also use neon lights or have a multicolor led strip installed to change the color of the lighting whenever you want.
Integrating technology -
If you plan to have a sound system or a television set inside your bathroom, you should work on waterproofing certain parts near these gadgets so that water doesn't splash on these devices and create a short circuit. It would be best to think about internet connectivity because a slow connection can always ruin your mood.
You can integrate technology like automatic toilets, tile warmers, etc. These tile warmers heat the tiles so they don't have to step on a freezing tile on a winter morning.
Who should you hire to carry out these home refurbishments?
There are some DIY tips and tricks which can bring you closer to having the perfect bathroom, and with your skills and knowledge, you can work on making some complex modifications, but it is always a better option to hire a professional to carry out the refurbishments tasks. These professionals are far more knowledgeable and are experienced, so they know exactly what to do and know the alternatives if something goes wrong.
You can hire a -
– A laborer to rip out the old bathroom
– A plumber to fit the new bathroom
– A safe gas engineer (some plumbers are gas safe but check beforehand)
– An electrician for electric showers, lights, underfloor heating, extractor fan, and shaver point.
– A tiler to work on tiles
– A plasterer to plaster and insulate the walls
– A carpenter to work on the wooden floors or to hang other decorations
– A painter to paint some designs or paint the interior of the bathroom
How long does a bathroom refurbishment take -
The time taken for a bathroom refurbishment will depend on the number of ideas and features you are implementing. If you are changing the layout, adding new tiles, making storage space, working on adding lights and TV, the refurbishment can take as long as 3-4 weeks. If you are doing the basic stuff like polishing the tiles, changing the bathtub, adding new decorations, etc., the refurbishment will take only about 1-2 weeks.
The time taken will also depend on the workers' efficiency and the availability of the required materials. It takes almost 1-2 days to clean up everything and add final touches, and then you can finally use the bathroom.
Can a bathroom be used when the refurbishment is taking place?
It might be possible for you to use the bathroom when there are only minor refurbishments taking place, but it is suggested that you leave the bathroom being worked on and use the spare or guest bathroom.
The tiles, wiring, drain are all exposed, and one wrong step can lead to a fatal accident. Hence, it is better to wait till all the work is done. Once the work is done, you have to work on the maintenance, the tiles might get corroded or there might be rust on some appliances.
Conclusion -
Getting a new bathroom can be a small part of your house renovation but this is something you should pay close attention on. You spend a lot of time in the bathroom and practically start your day.
Getting the perfect new bathrooms is always worth the investment; this bathroom can be your personal space where you can ignore all your problems and have a nice hot bath. Having a shower or a bath can also help in releasing stress and works to uplift the mood. These relaxing spaces can also help in triggering creativity and new ideas.
A loft conversion is an addition of space or room into an existing space and this involves extending a part of the roof or replacing the roof entirely and building a new one. Loft conversions are so popular and are seen everywhere because they are the best option to do something new with the house and it doesn't take up too much money.
If you want to shift to a place with an extra bedroom you will end up incurring a lot of expenses and on the other hand, if you simply loft an additional bedroom into your existing house, the costs are much less.
How loft conversion helps in value addition
Loft conversions not only allow you to have the specially modified place you want, but they also help in generating money. The value of the property increases if you loft an extra room and this value keeps increasing and after 6-7 years you could see the value increase from anywhere around 15-20%.
Loft conversions are an investment that you put in and for example, if you spend 20,000$ for loft conversion on a 100000 house, the value of the house can increase to about 122000 just because of the loft conversion.
Things to look out for before considering a loft conversion?
Getting a loft conversion done might sound simple but there are many different things to consider to make sure that the property can complement a loft conversion. Below mentioned are three factors to know if your roof is suitable for a loft conversion.
How can you use this lofted space?
Once you go through all the requirements and are sure about your house supporting a loft conversion, you can go forward and make plans on how you want to use this additional space. You can use the space to create an extra bedroom with a master bathroom to facilitate guests. You also make it a dedicated room for mediation or make it a kid's play area. Hosting parties and having movie nights are also extremely fun in these areas.
You can also use your creativity and make it a multipurpose room. You can add a TV, Home theatre, projector, and a folding couch to have good family time and lay down a carpet so that kids can play. Decorating the room with the required ornaments or gadgets also helps to lift the essence of the place.
Can you do a loft conversion by yourself?
A loft conversion is not a simple task and you want to include local planners and Architects and take their help to get the best loft conversion. There are DIY loft conversion ideas that you can follow and these small conversions can be done alone.
You can also find pre assembled rooms that can be lofted into your room and all you have to do is purchase the lofted room, get it dismantled and delivered to your doorstep and then have the room assembled on your roof.
Who should You approach to get help with a loft conversion?
1. Appoint an architect/technician or building surveyor.
These architects and local technicians have a good understanding of the different plans and designs that you can use to get your loft conversion. These architects and technicians have the required experience and can help in providing the best options.
2. Appoint a specialist loft conversion company.
Many companies deal with loft conversions and these companies have their own architects and designers. You can get help from these companies and they will take care of everything right from purchasing the raw materials to cleaning the house after the loft conversion is done.
3. Use an experienced builder.
You can also approach a local builder and this builder might have been doing the loft conversions for other houses in the area as well. Hiring these experienced builders can be the best and affordable option for some.
Should You consider taking permissions?
Permissions are a must when it comes to getting a loft conversion. If you hire a company or an agency to do the loft conversion for you, the agency will work on getting the required permissions. If you hire a local builder, you should personally go and visit the local planning office, lay down your lofting plans, and show proof that your house is suitable for a loft conversion. The planning authorities will examine the documents and cross-check all the details and you can proceed with the loft conversion only if they give the required permissions.
There are certain types of basic loft conversions and if you are going with these basic designs, planning permissions can be ignored. It is important to get permissions if you are making changes on your roof like changing the height of the roof, changing the ceiling and floor, etc.
Conclusion -
The cost of getting a loft conversion depends on the type and design of the loft conversion you choose and it is important to know the requirements of every type of loft conversion changes from property to property. Spending too much on a loft conversion is not advisable too because you won't be able to get back the investments or proper returns. If you are planning to get help from companies, you should do enough research and find good companies like Loft Conversion London, who offer quality services at low cost. The loft conversions take about 7-9 weeks and sometimes seven more and you should look for a different place to stay and also make sure to visit the site to ensure everything is going according to the plan.
Loft conversions have become a major trend and this is one of the most economic and suitable ways of creating some additional space in a house. A loft conversion is so suitable because there are no insane costs involved and you can customize the room in however way you want. This lofted space can be a special room for watching movies, it can be a gaming room, it can be an extra guest bedroom, or a place where you can leave all your problems and enjoy your personal space.
Insights on lofting
Lofting is not just an expense because it adds value to your house. A survey revealed that a lofted house adds more than 20-25% in value and this conventional extension can be a huge plus point.
If you plan to do a loft conversion, there is no limit to your imagination. There are various types of loft conversions available and you can choose a type that will suit your budget and will compliment your residence. There is no need to get additional permissions generally, but if you are doing something special and adding various elements, you have to get the required permissions from the concerned authorities.
Loft Conversion London takes up lofting activity and takes care of all the steps involved in lofting. Right from procuring the required resource to cleaning up after the job, we do it all. Our services are highly reliable and we offer the best services when it comes to lofting. We work closely with our clients, understand their expectations, and work on creating the best living space.
There are also pre-assembled lofts available in the market and the living spaces can be dismantled and then can be assembled in the house. These pre-built lofts are slightly expensive but it takes a lot less time to assemble them. There is a lot less scope of customization with the pre-built lofts.
On average it takes about 6-8 weeks to finish lofting and this timeframe is just acceptable.
Costs and other expenses involved in a loft conversion
A loft conversion is kind of a makeover and you can have a dedicated personal space for yourself so it is a great investment. The additional advantage of this loft conversion is that it adds to the value of the house. There are various costs involved in the prices of lofting and you need to shell out some extra cash to buy the interiors and decorate the room.
The important areas to look at are insulation, plumbing, and wiring. There should be enough insulation from weather conditions and there should be a heater available at all times. If you ha a washroom in your lofted room, the outlets have to be connected properly to the drainage system. Wiring should also be looked at to make sure you have electricity and to avoid short circuits.
Conclusion
It is important to plan the whole activity before you get started with lofting. As said earlier there are a lot of factors like, types of lofts, permissions, interiors, etc which play a major role, and once you consider all these factors you can set some expectations and allot a budget to get the lofting in place.
The lofted room will be totally worth the investment as these rooms can be used for various purposes.
A loft conversion is the practice of converting an empty space (generally the attic) into a fully functioning room. This room might be a dedicated space for watching movies, a bedroom, gaming room, gym, etc. A loft conversion can completely change the essence of the house and when you have a dedicated space to do something you love, you enjoy the living experience even more.
Loft conversions are of different types and it depends on you on how you want the room to look. It depends on the creativity and the opportunities the house presents.
Advantage of getting a loft conversion
A loft conversion not only allows you to have a dedicated special space but also adds value to the house. Research has proved that a loft conversion increases the value of the house by at least 20% and the value can even go up later. You can use this lofted room as a place to host parties, meditate, play games, and just use it to spend some quality time with your family. The room can also be an extra guest bedroom for when your relatives are in town. The lift also gives a good look to the house and makes it stand out from all regular houses.
How to get started with a loft conversion
There are various types of loft conversions and some loft conversions are simple and some are complicated. You have to understand the structure of the roof, the flooring, and the insulation to know the type of converso that will suit your house. It is generally suggested that you go to an architect or a builder to know more about the plans for lofting but you can do the whole loft conversion by yourself.
You can find blueprints of the house and other important documents in the city library and you can download them or borrow them for free. These documents will help in giving valuable insights about the structure and the layout of the house. These blueprints have all the measurements like the length, breadth, and width of the rooms. You can carry out all the activities relating to loft conversion but it would be a lot of work to carry out alone.
There are pre-assembled lofts available in the market and you can simply purchase the lofted room, get the dismantled pieces delivered to your house, and reassemble them all on your own.
Cost of getting a loft conversion
The cost of getting a loft conversion depends on the type of loft conversion you choose, There are various styles and models of loft conversion you can choose and the maintenance costs of these lift conversions also add up.
Some loft conversions are very cheap and the overall cost for getting a loft conversion can end up costing as little as about £12000 or as much as £50000 or more.
It is better if you set a budget and then go forward with the idea of a loft conversion. When you are on a budget, you can compare the costs and can adjust in suitable places. If you select the best model, equipment, and utilities the costs can go sky high and you will have to make additional monetary arrangements that you can not afford.
What are the planning permissions?
If you are going with a basic form of loft conversion, you can go forward with the conversion without taking any planning permissions. The advanced and complex types of loft conversions demand planning permissions from the authorities because an illegal loft conversion can be a hazard to the house and the neighbors. The local planning authorities can grant you the required permissions and all you have to do is submit the blueprints of the house and the plans for the type of loft conversion.
It must be noted that the planning authorities allow the loft conversion only if the house is suitable for the type of loft conversion.
Various types of loft conversions
Rooflight loft conversion is one of the easiest and basic forms of a loft conversion. This includes turning the existing space into a lift and all you have to is create provisions for allowing light into the room. Their roof should have a strong ceiling and insulation to facilitate general living conditions. This loft conversion is cheap and effective. The only disadvantage can be a limited amount of headspace.
A dormer loft conversion is one of the most chosen types of loft conversion because it is economic and changes can be made according to the needs of the user. There are dorms added to the front, back, or side of the roof to add living space and the owner can choose to add a single form or a full-width dorm. These dorm loft conversions add much more value to the house because they are attractive.
A hip-to-gable loft conversion is also an economic loft conversion model where the roof slopes of one side are taken as a gable and extend over to create a triangle-like structure. This type of loft conversion is spacious. It is mandatory to get permission from the planning authorities when you are going for this type of loft conversion.
