The Almost Impartial Guide to Garage Conversions and Loft Conversions

The Almost Impartial Guide to Loft Conversions

My family need more space - where can I find it?

With house prices constantly rising the need for more space for the family, or even a room to set aside for a hobby, means that moving to a new property could be too costly to pursue.

So look at your existing property - is there space to extend out into the garden? But do you really want to do that? According to a survey by valuers, when it comes to adding value to your property a loft conversion gets 10 marks out of 10, where an extension rates as a seven.

So that’s a double bonus, more living space and a more attractive property to potential buyers!

So what is to be? Extra bedrooms (perhaps ensuite), an office, playroom… the options are many.

Can I do the job myself?

A word of caution before starting on a loft conversion. Professional help and advice should be sought. A bodged DIY job will not add value to the property – anything but. A professional architect or builder will also be able to advise on the likely cost and if that cost will add monetary value to your home.

They will also advise on building regulations, planning permission and the structural stability of the space to be converted.

DIY amateurs should avoid anything to do with structural alterations, or substantial work involving electricity, gas, plumbing or water.

Before getting too carried away with how the extra space can be used, or what it will look like. Carefully work out the finances and how you will pay for everything. Again professional advice is well worth seeking when it comes to extending mortgages or taking out loans.

Some Recommended Loft Conversion Websites:

Capital Lofts
Our aesthetically driven loft conversion process aims to open up your horizons to new design potential, working in harmony with the characteristics of the property and clients' personal tastes. We put particular emphasis on creating light, spacious loft conversions. Your attic / loft conversion will be professionally managed and built within six weeks. We cover anywhere in London within the M25 (except postcodes beginning E or SE) as well as Guildford, Staines and the surrounding areas.

Econoloft
Econoloft are loft conversion specialists in the UK. Information and advice on design and building a loft conversion including how to DIY! Planning permission, costs, ideas and faqs all feature.

Truss Loft Conversions Free Quote on Loft Conversions
This site will provide you with a FREE no-obligation quote for your loft within 48 hours. Using their on-line survey proforma to answer some straightforward questions about your loft, they claim to be able to deliver a comprehensive detailed quote in the post to you. 

Building Control - Loft Conversion Guide
If your work involves any new accommodation in the roof space (bedroom, spare bedroom, study, occasional playroom, etc), or any structural alterations (adding or removing joists, installing a roof light if it involves trimming the rafters, etc), then you will need to make a Building Regulations application. Find out more information here.

Looking to convert your loft into an extra room? - For detailed information on Loft Conversions - Follow the following Links

	Roof Construction and Loft Conversion C.N. Mindham This manual provides practical guidance on the design and construction of timber roofs, featuring numerous detail drawings and including information on loft to attic room conversion.
	Loft Conversions: Planning, Managing and Completing Your Conversion by Laurie Wiliamson As the demand for living space increases, more and more people are looking to convert their lofts into an extra room. How can the best possible results be achieved? Can a competent DIY enthusiast complete all or part of the work successfully? And, if not, how best can the job be contracted out or overseen?Loft Conversions answers all these questions, and more, with almost 300 full colour illustrations, step-by-step notes, tips and advice though out. It is designed to assist anyone planning a loft...
	Home Conversions: The Complete Handbook Paul Hymers For a large number of homeowners, creating additional living space is a key issue, especially if it can be done without moving house. Roof and loft conversions are among the most popular but there is also a great deal of potential for garages and basements. Home conversions are also about adding value to your home as well as increasing your living space. This book provides clear and concise advice on how to plan and supervise a loft, basement or garage conversion. It guides the reader through all the stages - including planning and the law, dealing with architects, builders and other contractors and decorating - to show you how to avoid costly mistakes.

 

Loft Conversions

Building Regulations

Designs & Ideas

Planning Permission

Free Loft Conversions Brochure

Free Garage Conversions Brochure