DIFFERENT TYPES OF LOFT CONVERSIONS
There a several different types of loft conversions and the one that you choose will depend on factors such as size needed, budget and property type. Here we'll run you through the different type of loft conversions.
DORMER
A dormer-box type structure is added to your existing roof and the walls are at a 90 degree angle to the floor, just like the photo. Re-shaping the roof in this way creates additional headroom and maximising the height within the roof. A dormer loft conversion is one of the most popular types of conversions as it works with most property types. You can also have the dormer situated on the side or rear, and sometimes the front, of the property. It’s also popular as a dormer usually allows for a bathroom to be added as a shower requires the height.
The dormer structure is fixed to the existing roof, with a wooden beam structure and a steel frame when required. There is also the option to use blocks and brick gables, the structure is then clad with ply and breathable membranes, with a flat roof made of Rubber or GRP with a 20 year non leaking guarantee. Matching concrete or slate tiles are used to ensure the dormer blends in with the existing building.
HIP TO GABLE
Hip to gable loft conversions adds space which wasn’t existing by extending the roof outwards. To do so, we would extend the roof along the hip, which is the sloping side of the roof, and convert it into the gable, which is a vertical upright wall. The roof is extended from the existing ridge, filling in the gap between them. This turns the hip into a gable to form the space in your roof for a loft conversion. The new gable is then tiled to match your existing roof or you may wish to install a window in the new gable end which is great for brightening up the space.
These types of conversions are great for maximising your interior space. Semi-detached, detached and end terrace houses are most suited for this type of conversion however it can be done on other property types if they have a hip roof. A double hip to gable loft conversion can also be done on detached properties which have a hipped roof on either side, this would create an even larger amount of space.
A Velux loft conversion uses the space that is already in your existing loft and creates a transformed living space without creating a dormer or any roof extension. Velux windows are then added to the ceiling to create lots of natural light. Velux are the leading manufacturer of roof windows and fit flush with the line of the roof. You can look at the different types of Velux windows and more information on their website.
The benefits of this type of loft includes a cheaper end bill and shorter construction time compared to the other types, as long as you have the existing space that you require in your loft already.
L-SHAPED DORMER
An L-shaped dormer loft conversion is created when two dormers are connected at right angles to each other to create an L shape. This adds the maximum amount of space and can create multiple rooms, great for those with growing families.
The property needs to have plenty of existing space to build the dormers and is popular for Victorian terraced or semi-detached properties. Generally, the larger dormer is added to the main roof and the smaller dormer is built onto the rear roof. The dormers are finished with tiles to blend in with the existing roof for a natural looking finish.
It's best suited to those who need a large amount of extra space, the square footage of a L-shape dormer is usually similar as that of the first floor.
BUNGALOW LOFT CONVERSION
A loft conversion on a bungalow is often a great choice as they offer so much potential with their large roof space. There is often scope for adding multiple rooms and a bathroom/en-suite in a bungalow loft.
Again, the square footage of most bungalow loft conversions is usually similar as that of the first floor. Other benefits include solid internal walls which make the structural changes easier and easier access for the build due to most bungalows being detached or semi-detached.