With Christmas upon us, you’ve likely taken your annual trip up into your loft to search for your Christmas tree and decorations. Side-stepping old boxes and years’ worth of hoarding you start to think that maybe your loft could be cut out for more than just a haphazard dumping ground for storage. Considering a loft conversion is a smart choice for many reasons, namely for the extra room and space one can give you, but also for the value it can add to your home. However, there are several things to think about. Primarily, how to know if your loft is suitable for a loft conversion. Fortunately, here at AS Construction & Structural Engineering – the home of intelligent, efficient, and innovative structural engineering services – we have the answers you’re looking for.
In this blog, we’ll highlight everything you need to decide if your loft is suitable for conversion. From how loft conversions are done to the benefits they deliver, we’ll explore everything. What’s more, if you do choose to convert your loft, we can do that for you too. Our highly qualified and experienced structural engineers work alongside developers, architects, interior designers, contractors, and other construction professionals to create and deliver results that will exceed your expectations. Get in touch with us today for more information.
Loft Conversions: Making the Most of Unused Space
What is a loft conversion?
If your attic space is empty or is used for storage, why not transform it into a functional room? Our loft conversions are primarily used to add extra rooms, such as bedrooms, offices, playrooms, additional living areas and more. So, if you’d like to expand your home without the hassle of moving, our loft conversions are the answer.
What is involved in building a loft conversion?
Here at AS Construction & Structural Engineering, our team is passionate about sustainable and efficient engineering. Our extensive experience in producing structural engineering designs ensures that you will receive the most economical, efficient and innovative design solutions.
Our end-to-end services for loft conversions include:
- General planning.
- Design and access statements.
- Planning policy research and advice.
- Preparation of Building Regulations applications.
- Detailed drawings to a measured scale.
- Groundworks and foundations.
- Flush floor and ceiling finishes.
- Uninterrupted running walls.
- Minimal steel structures for support.
- And much, much more.
We provide a complete service that will take you from quotation to completion with premium quality results. Contact us today for more info about our loft conversions.
How To Know If Your Loft Is Suitable For A Loft Conversion
So you’ve decided to take the step and convert your loft into a stylish, multi-functional room, but you’re left wondering ‘Can my loft be converted?’. If this question is the only thing stopping you from taking the leap and converting your loft, let us put your mind at ease. Here’s how to know if your loft is suitable for a loft conversion…
- Available Head Height
Ensuring that you have enough adequate head height is key for a successful loft conversion. Head height must be measured from the top of the floor joists in the loft, to the underside of the ridge beam. Building regulations permit a minimum headroom of 2.2m, however, 2.4m is ideal once the flooring has been laid and the ceiling finished.
- Roof Pitch
The pitch and steepness of your roof pitch will dictate the amount of head height available and how easy your loft conversion will be. Generally, angles above 30 degrees are more successful and the steeper the roof pitch, the more available head height there will be. Speak to us today if you’re not sure about your roof pitch.
- Roof Structure
Your roof’s structure will have a bearing on the construction methods used for conversion. A cut roof is constructed using rafters, joists and purlins, leaving most of the triangular space below free. A trussed roof is constructed using W-shaped trusses that run through the cross-section of the loft – blocking some of the space that you will need for your conversion.
- Roof Condition
The condition of your roof is critical to deciding whether your loft is suitable for a loft conversion or not. Our specialist structural engineers can thoroughly assess and examine the
condition of your roof to ensure that it is structurally sound and can withstand the load of the conversion.
- Water Tanks & Chimney Stacks
If you have a water tank in your loft, this will need to be relocated. We also recommend removing the water tank and replacing it with a new combi-boiler or similar. Chimney stacks, while not essential to be removed, can be taken down to make more space in your new loft conversion.
- Staircase Placement
Staircases can often be overlooked when planning loft conversions, but having one is essential for access. Building regulations require a minimum of 1.9m of headroom at the centre of the flight, and 1.8m at the edges. You will also need to allow space for the staircase on the floor below.
- Planning Permission
In many cases, loft conversions fall under permitted development, but it’s crucial to check local regulations. If you’re not sure if you need planning permission for your loft conversion, don’t hesitate to speak to AS Construction & Structural Engineering today. We can provide trusted advice and are happy to help.
In addition to the above, several other factors may influence your loft conversion such as the cost, schedule and the company that you choose for the conversion. We are the home of intelligent, efficient, and innovative structural engineering services, <style=”color:#000;”a href=”https://www.as-structuraleng.co.uk/contact-us/”>contact us today for more information.
The Benefits of Converting a Loft
Now that you know what a loft conversion is and how to pick the right one for you, what can a loft conversion offer to you? Here are some of the many benefits of loft conversions…
- Cost-Effective
Loft conversions are probably the most cost-effective and budget-friendly choice above moving home and adding an extension. The average price of converting a loft starts from around £50,000 which means that you can typically elevate your home and add more space at a fraction of the cost of moving.
- Increase Your Home’s Value
Like home extensions, loft conversions can add up to 20% to the value of your home! Depending on how your extra space is to be utilised, you can see significant monetary benefits. This makes loft conversions a smart investment to make for maximum long-term financial benefits.
- Tailored To You
With our help, you can achieve a bespoke loft conversion that will expand the space within your property and infinitely improve your lifestyle. So whatever your tastes and style and however you need your loft conversion to function for you, your family, and your home, we can tailor it all to your needs.
- Sustainable Solutions
We are always looking for ways to minimise our carbon footprint when executing the day-to-day tasks of running a business. We choose sustainable solutions for loft conversions and all our other services. What’s more, we endeavour to help our clients reduce their carbon footprint by providing innovative engineering solutions. The benefits of loft conversions speak for themselves, so if you’re ready to take the step, <style=”color:#000;”a href=”https://www.as-structuraleng.co.uk/contact-us/”>get in touch with us to book your home visit today!
Loft Conversion FAQs
Q: How long does a loft conversion take?
The length of time a loft conversion takes will vary depending on several factors. Get in touch with us for more information.
Q: How much does a loft conversion cost?
The cost of a loft conversion will vary based on factors such as size, complexity, and location. We can provide you with a tailored quote, contact us today.
Q: Can I use my loft as a bedroom?
Yes, as long as a loft conversion meets building regulations and safety standards, it can be used as a bedroom.
Q: Do I need an architect for a loft conversion?
While an architect isn’t mandatory for a loft conversion, having one can ensure a well-designed and compliant conversion. Fortunately, we at AS Construction & Structural Engineering can help.
Q: What is the lifespan of a loft conversion?
With proper maintenance, a loft conversion can last as long as the rest of the house.
In Conclusion
Choosing a loft conversion is an exciting prospect, but there are several things to consider when figuring out if your loft is suitable for conversion. From ensuring there is adequate head space and
assessing the pitch and condition of your roof to relocating water tanks and, of course, ensuring it all adheres to building regulations, there is a lot to think about. If you’re ready to take the step and embark on your own loft conversion journey, please don’t hesitate to <style=”color:#000;”a href=”https://www.as-structuraleng.co.uk/contact-us/”>get in touch with us today!
How does it work?
1.Understand Your Requirements
From your initial correspondence with us via email and/or phone, we take the time to discuss and understand your project, and your requirements, and find out if there are any site or design
limitations we should be aware of.
2.Quotation
We submit a formal Fee Proposal based on the information received or discussed with you over email/phone, or if you have simply requested a quote via our quote form. We ensure our Fee
Proposal clearly outlines the expected scope of work so that you are well informed and can easily make a decision on whether you wish to proceed with our services.
3.Carry Out a Site Visit
Once you have accepted our Fee Proposal and formally instructed us on your project, we will arrange a suitable time to visit the site and carry out an initial visual inspection. The site visit allows us to discuss in person, your requirements in further detail as well as familiarise ourselves with the existing structure and the immediate surroundings. It also helps you to put a face to a name.
4.Design & Survey Documents
Once an initial site visit is completed, for our structural design services we produce three structural design documents, all of which are required to be submitted to Building Control for you to gain approval for your proposed works.
5.Commencement of Work
Once everything is in place, we will be delighted to commence the construction of your loft conversion. If you would like to start your journey to your loft conversion, why not get in touch with us today?
Why work with us?
We are a long-standing, reputable structural engineering consultancy based in East London. We are a talented, dynamic and enthusiastic team of Engineers delivering intelligent, efficient and innovative engineering solutions. Here’s more about why you should work with us…
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Complete Project Management
We provide great designs which
satisfy our client’s
requirements, and our
exceptional project completion
rate is a testament to the
constant business we receive
from new and existing clients.
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Range of Services
We offer services nationally
across the UK and our
portfolio includes residential,
commercial, industrial, health
and education projects in
both the private and public
sectors.
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Fully Qualified
We are fully qualified and are
registered with the Institution
of Structural Engineers, the
world’s leading and governing
professional body for
qualifications and standards in
structural engineering.
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If you’d like to take the step and arrange your loft conversion, please don’t hesitate to contact us today!
Why Choose Us:
Expertise: AS Construction & Structural Engineering boasts a team of experienced professionals with a proven track record in successful loft conversions.
Quality Assurance: We prioritize quality craftsmanship, ensuring that every aspect of your loft conversion meets the highest standards.
Client-Centric Approach: Our commitment to client satisfaction is unwavering. We work closely with you to bring your vision to life, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience.
Contact AS Construction & Structural Engineering today, and let us transform your loft into a space that complements your lifestyle. Your dream loft conversion is just a call away!
