If you’re thinking about expanding your living space without the hassle of a full-on extension, loft conversions are your answer. Say your family needs an extra bedroom. Instead of moving to a larger house, you can convert the unused attic into a spacious bedroom to add functionality and value to the home.
Types of loft conversion can range from simple roof light installations to more complex dormer conversions. Each type has its specifics, but the goal remains the same: to make the most out of your existing space. If you’re unsure which type of loft conversion will match your space and construction requirements, we got you. Keep reading to learn all about these conversions.
Top 10 Types of Loft Conversion
The difference between different types of loft conversions comes from the way they’re constructed and their alteration requirements. Here are the main loft conversions you can consider:
Rooflight/Velux
A Rooflight or Velux loft conversion installs windows flush with the roofline to allow natural light to flood in. It does so without altering the existing roof structure so there is no extensive construction work, which means it’s a cost-effective option. This type of loft conversion is less disruptive and often doesn’t need planning permission. However, consider how you’ll access the new space because installing safe and convenient loft conversion stairs is important for usability.
Dormer
A Dormer loft conversion extends outward from the existing roof to create more headroom and floor space. It constructs a box-like projection with vertical walls and a flat roof to integrate with the original structure. These types of loft conversions provide ample room for a bedroom, office, or bathroom. Dormer conversions are popular because they balance the newly added space with a relatively straightforward construction process. Just remember that the design should complement your home’s exterior to maintain its aesthetic appeal.
Hip-to-Gable
Hip-to-gable conversions are for homes with a hipped roof that slopes on all sides. It extends the sloping side of the roof (the hip) outward to create a vertical wall (the gable) to increase the internal loft space. If your house is detached or semi-detached with a hipped roof, this conversion can expand your loft area. However, you may need planning permission because major structural changes are involved in these types of loft conversions.
Gable-to-Gable
A Gable-to-gable loft conversion builds up the gable end walls and extends the roof in between. It transforms the loft into a large, box-shaped room with plenty of usable space, so it’s ideal if you want substantial additional space, perhaps for multiple rooms. It offers a near full-height ceiling throughout the loft area so they provide the most room but know that they require more extensive construction work.
Mansard
A Mansard loft conversion alters the entire slope of your roof to create a flat roof with some incline. Such a design maximizes the space in your loft by transforming the roof’s structure. It’s usually constructed at the rear of your property and is common in urban areas with limited space. These types of loft conversions are recommended if you want a noticeable extra room in the house as it will offer ample headroom and can accommodate multiple rooms or large master suites. However, it requires extensive construction work, so consulting with loft conversion specialists will help you understand the process and ensure quality.
Modular Extension
Modular extension loft conversions are prefabricated structures built off-site and then installed onto your existing roof. Conducting the loft conversion in such a way reduces on-site construction time and minimizes disruption to your daily life. The modules are craned into position and assembled quickly which results in a lower loft conversion cost. If you’re short on time and want a hassle-free option, this could be suitable as it provides high-quality finishes and can be cost-effective.
L-Shaped Dormer
An L-shaped dormer loft conversion combines two dormer builds at a right angle, forming an ‘L’ shape. Most Victorian and Edwardian properties go for these types of loft conversion since they have an existing rear extension. It creates substantial additional space, often enough for multiple rooms. This option works best if you need more space without altering the property’s exterior drastically.
Trussed Roof
Different types of loft conversions support different kinds of roofs. Since trussed roofs have W-shaped supports, it makes conversions more complex. Therefore, a trussed roof loft conversion reinforces or replaces these supports to create usable space. It’s more challenging than converting traditional roofs because of the structural changes required.
Shell Loft Conversions
A shell loft conversion provides the basic structural work and leaves the internal finishes for you to complete. The construction team handles the external aspects like roof alterations and window installations. You then take over tasks like insulation, plumbing, and decorating. If you’re hands-on and want to save on costs with small loft conversion ideas, this type will give you control over the interior design while ensuring the structural work is professionally done.
Pitched Dormer
As the name says, a pitched dormer loft conversion adds a dormer with a pitched roof to your existing loft. It increases headroom and brings in natural light without altering the roofline a lot. The pitched roof helps the dormer blend with the existing structure and is a good choice if you want extra space with a traditional look. It’s less obtrusive than flat-roofed dormers and can elevate your home’s exterior.
Convert Your Loft For Added Usable Space
All these loft conversions maximize your home’s space and potential. Whether you want another bedroom, a study, or wish to increase your living area, the right loft conversion can transform your loft into a valuable and functional part of your home.
FAQs
What are the three types of loft conversion?
The three main types of loft conversions are dormer, mansard, and hip-to-gable loft conversion.
A dormer loft conversion constructs a vertical extension to create more floor space and headroom within the existing roof. Likewise, the mansard one changes the structure of the sloped roof to an almost vertical slope at the rear. Lastly, the hip-to-gable type converts the hip (sloped) side of the roof into a gable end, extending the roof and increasing the usable space.
What is the cheapest type of loft conversion?
The cheapest type of loft conversion is typically the Rooflight or Velux Conversion. It adds windows to the existing roof structure without altering the roofline to minimize structural changes.
What is the most common loft conversion?
The most common loft conversion is the Dormer Loft Conversion. It’s popular because it provides a significant amount of additional space and is suitable for most types of homes. It extends the existing roof to create more headroom and floor space, often used to add bedrooms or bathrooms.
