Types of loft conversions

In case you did not know, homes in the United Kingdom come with at least four main types of loft conversions. Through loft conversion, an area can be transformed into a guest bedroom, home office, playroom, or study room, among many others. The idea is to not only add additional floorspace but to also increase the value of your property.

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Before you worry about the overall loft conversion cost, you need to know first these types of loft conversions. That way, you will have a better understanding of the best design that can be applied to your home. Of course, your final decision will always be based on the number of different criteria. This includes, but not limited to, budget, shape or line of the roof, and permitted development rights. To get the best result, it is imperative that you work with a skilled architect.

These are the four main types of loft conversions. Make sure to keep them in mind!

1. Roof Light Loft Conversion

This is where you do not have to worry about altering or expanding an existing space at all. The idea is also pretty straightforward – you just have to add windows and reinforce your floor. And by doing so, you are already able to wholly transform an attic into a comfortable and eye-catching living space. 

The Roof Light loft conversion is a favourite option by many homeowners since it is usually 25 percent cheaper than other types of loft conversions. Even more so, getting approval to start construction is not a difficult one to achieve. But perhaps its biggest advantage is giving you a lot of room for storage, especially if you are able to use eaves in a creative manner.

2. Hip to Gable Loft Conversion

If you have an end of a terrace or a completely detached home, then the Hip to Gable loft conversion is an ideal option to have. Not only does it create a vertical wall, but it is also capable of straightening an inwardly slanted end roof. Sure, this might be a small change to your property. However, you will be surprised by the fact that it can actually bring a significant difference to the overall feel of your property’s living space. That is why it is also becoming an increasingly popular option among homeowners.

For starters, the Hip to Gabel loft conversion gives you a very aesthetically pleasing element. This is simply because it perfectly blends in with your home’s existing design. It is also suitable for chalets and/or bungalows. Moreover, you will not have any issue if you decide to combine it with a rear dormer loft to achieve maximum space.

3. Mansard Loft Conversion

By raising the party wall (i.e. the wall you share with your neighbours), you can easily achieve a Mansard loft conversion. This is where the roof remains flat and the outer wall slopes are slightly inwards. In most cases, this type of loft conversion can be found at the very rear of the house. And while it is often suitable for a good number of property types, this loft conversion is really popular when it comes to terraced houses.

When compared to a dormer, the Mansard loft conversion is without a doubt a better option in terms of aesthetic appeal. Not only does it blend perfectly into older properties, but it also offers more headroom when compared with other loft conversion types. Lastly, if you want to bring more light into your loft, this is the best way to go.

4. Dormer Loft Conversion

This is arguably the most popular loft conversion in the list. The simple flat roof dormer loft conversion is, by essence, a structural extension that projects vertically right from the slope and all the way to the existing roof. This ultimately creates a box shape; hence the name. Generally, this type of loft conversion will not require any dramatic changes. In fact, it already gives you the opportunity to install a conventional window if necessary.

If you have a cramped attic, this loft conversion can give you useful headroom. It does not impact your property’s flat ceilings and straight walls, but it can definitely give you a large amount of additional internal space. If you are on a shoestring budget, this loft conversion can be your go-to choice.