Are you interested in learning about loft conversions in London? A lot of people never try to convert their loft because they’re not sure how to go about it. You might also feel that there are too many complicated steps involved and so you give up before you even start. Don’t worry! By using this guide, you can easily learn how to build a house extension in London.

The first and foremost thing that you need to do is to measure the space that you have. Then you need to choose from the four different types of loft conversions, after which you can choose a builder or an architect to help you. Read on as we discuss these steps in more detail.

Is my loft convertible?

The first step involves checking if your loft can actually be converted or not. A lot of homes come with prior approval for development. If this holds true for your loft, you will face no issues with converting it.

However, there are some instances where things can get complicated. These include:

• You reside in a conservation area
• There is insufficient roof space

To make sure your loft is convertible, we suggest you ask a surveyor to first carry out the required checks. Once you are sure you can convert your loft, you can proceed to the next steps.

Find out about different conversions

Look around the area you live in to see if others have gotten loft conversions done to get a better idea of how it works. You can also ask someone you know to show you their own loft conversions in London. This way, you can get the right idea of the amount of space that will be there and how you can use it.

Find out about the head height

A loft conversion requires a minimum height of 2.2 meters. You can measure this yourself by choosing the tallest area of the room and running a measuring tape from the floor to the ceiling. As long it meets the minimum height requirement, you should be able to convert your loft.

Check your roof

You need to see the type of roof that your home has. It might have roof trusses or rafters. You can look through your loft hatch to find out.

Check the floor

Next, you need to check the floor to see where a staircase can be placed and how much space might be required for this. Even the most well-crafted staircases tend to take up a lot of space. So, make sure you have enough room for one.

How much time is required for a loft conversion?

There is no definitive answer to this. It depends entirely on two key factors. One, the trader you have chosen, and two, the type of loft conversion you have opted for.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the estimated time required to complete different types of loft conversions:

• Roof light conversion – 4 weeks
• Dormer conversion – 5 weeks
• Hip to gable conversions – 7 weeks
• Mansard conversions – 8 months

If you have decided on getting your loft converted, the first couple of weeks will be spent in the preparation and gathering of materials. Work will be done on the outside of the property first, after which the workers will move to the inside of your home so that flooring and insulation work can be done. They will also work on the stud walls here. Finally, they’ll complete work related to plastering, electrics, and plumbing.

Types of loft conversions

There are mainly four different types of loft conversions. Your choice will depend on different factors, including the type of your house and the budget you have.

Roof Light Conversion

This is an affordable, budget-friendly loft conversion and is best for you if you live in a conservation area. However, you’ll get much lesser space as compared to a dormer or mansard conversion. This conversion type is also much less disruptive since the only changes required are adding skylight windows, flooring, and staircase.

Dormer Conversion

This is the best option for houses with a sloping roof. However, it can take some time to build since many structural changes are needed. Most people opt for a flat-roof dormer here since it is cheaper compared to mansard and hip to gable conversions. It also adds plenty of space.

Hip to Gable Conversion

This conversion is comparatively cheaper than extending outwards and also looks very natural. It is more expensive than a dormer conversion and looks good on houses with a free sloping side roof.

You can carry out this conversion by creating a vertical ‘gable’ wall and getting more internal space. You will also need to extend the sloping side roof of your property outwards. As a result, it is only suitable for houses that are detached or semi-detached.

Mansard Conversion

This conversion creates a lot of space. However, it is very expensive and does not look natural due to a change in the roof slope. This type of extension runs through the whole length of your roof and will change the angle of the roof slope by making it look vertical.

It is suitable for most property types.

Choosing a builder or an architect for our loft conversion or house extension

If you want to find someone for house extensions in London, then it’s best that you start with a recommendation. Talk to friends and family to see if they know of someone who is good at this.

You can also ask around in your neighbourhood to see if one of your neighbours knows a reliable builder or architect.

When you connect with a certain builder or architect, ask them to show you the work they have done for other clients to get an idea. Most of them will show you photographs of the work that they have done. Some might even take you to visit their previous work sites if feasible so that you can get the right idea.

Finally, get around three quotes for the work you plan on getting done to make a more informed choice. You can even use our Trusted Traders search tool below to find out more about professionals working in this arena near you.

Do you have a loft conversion or house extension project with all plans ready? Or you require Design and Build services from highly professional and well established company, which will deal with planning, building regulations, party wall agreements and build the loft conversion or house extension? Than look no further get in touch with us for a Detailed Free No Obligation Quote. Our lofts and house extensions come with 10 year guarantee and 12 month workmanship guarantee.

For a quote about your project whether construction only or design and build project get in touch now via direct call or contact form here.