Loft Conversion
Thinking of adding a loft conversion to your home, but not sure where to start?
The most popular questions that we are asked are;
- Can I extend into my loft?
- Will I need dormer windows?
- Do I need to obtain Planning permission? and
- is my roof suitable for a loft conversion?
Our answer is: anything can be built ……..
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Please click here to view some of our recent loft designs.
Loft Conversions
It depends how much headroom you want and how your existing roof is constructed
- modern houses tend to be built using “trusses”
- older houses tend to be built using a “cut roof”
What type of roof do you have?
A Truss Roof?
These are typically used in modern house. Trusses are pre-fabricated, triangulated wooden structures used to support the roof – they are very strong.
You can span large distances with a truss roof as the truss transmits all of the weight to the exterior walls.
Therefore, none of the interior walls are load-bearing.
A Cut Roof?
These are typically used in more complex roofs and older houses.
A ‘cut roof’ – is the traditional method of cutting the timber on site and building up the roof using rafters, ridge boards, joists and purlins etc – the exact details being determined by the size of roof, size of timbers etc.
In simple terms, the joists prevent the outward spread of the rafters/walls, and conveniently give support for the ceiling below.
This depends on the location of your house and the type of conversion
- if you are installing just Velux roof lights – possibly Not,
- if your house is in a conservation area, or if you are designing with Dormer windows to the front, or changing the ridge height- most likely YES you will require Planning permission.
How Can We Help You?
To kick start your project, one of our most popular services is our “Feasibility Meeting” (click here to find out more)
Our designers will visit your home and talk through your ideas with you.
They will discuss possible ways for you to create your vision.
With our 24 + years of experience of construction design, you can be reassured that you will receive expert, unbiased advice. We will advise you;
- whether or not we think Planning permission will be required
- give you an idea of how much it will cost and how long it will take
- whether or not the Party Wall Act 1996 will apply
- Whether or not you will require a “Build Over Agreement” (where applicable)
- on current Health & Safety Legislation, Fire regulations etc
I’m in a Hurry, Can’t I Just find A Builder and Get Started?
Yes you can, but you run the risk of unforeseen costs further down the line and delays on site – without detailed drawings, your builder can’t give you an accurate price.
If you are also having an extension and you start work without the proper investigations and your extension is within 3 metres of a shared drain, you may require a Building Over Agreement. Drawings will need to be submitted and an additional fee paid (approx. £400).
Building work should stop on site until the approval is granted (normally 3-4 weeks).
What’s The Advantage of using A Structural Engineer?
Because we are Structural Engineers we can see straight away what will and won’t work on site.
Our designs are well thought out and economical, saving you money in the long run.
Building Your Loft Conversion
Design and Build gives you the advantage of being in total control, but with none of the hassle.
We can be your single point of contact, reducing the time you would have spent co-ordinating separate disciplines.
Total Accountability
You will have a single point of contact for any issues relating to your project.
We are responsible for the design, the cost and how long it takes to complete your project.
The design-build method fosters teamwork and lends itself to cooperation. Design-build focuses on results, not excuses.
Alternatively, if you have a builder you would like to use, we can also work closely with them throughout the build phase.
Why Choose us to Help You?
Loft conversions have a very high structural content – good design will save you money in the long run. All designs are carried out in-house
We have been working with Local Authorities in the area for many years and have a good idea of what they require to be submitted, increasing your chances of approval the first time.
Better Experience
Our use of the latest 3D technology and animation means that you will get the chance to see how your project will look at the earliest stage and as it develops.
You will be asked for feedback at every stage and we will work with you to generate a design that you can see in 3D and understand before a single foundation is dug or timber cut.
Please give us a call now 0118 962 9666 to see how we can help you
Get In Touch
You will be re-directed to our Create Home Design website