8 crucial cost-saving tips for your loft conversion
Extensions and loft conversions are a costly process, but most of the time, the value they add to a home is more than worth the initial cost. Here are eight crucial tips to consider when planning a loft conversion which could help save you money and lots of time too:
1. Plan in advance
Planning a course of action will help you see exactly where your money is going. An effective plan of action will help you pinpoint which areas will need more of your budget, and which aspects you could potentially cut costs on. A plan will also help you identify the things you must do, what order they should be done in, and which steps of the conversion will demand the most spending.
2. Set a budget (be realistic, the internet is not a reliable guide)
During your plan, set yourself a budget. Knowing exactly how much money you must spend will help you know where you can cut costs. Get a good loft specialist out to get the right costs. It’s also wise to set aside a contingency pot. This will ensure that you can afford any items that are slightly over your original budget, giving yourself realistic leeway for the project so that you aren’t caught unaware, with nothing left to spare. Remember, factor in the state of the economy, inflation, shortages of materials etc.
Planning a course of action will help you see exactly where your money is going.
3. Choose your loft type carefully
One of the biggest factors that will help you save costs during your loft conversion is choosing which type of extension will benefit your home whilst being cost effective. For example, a rooflight loft conversion can be around 25% cheaper than a dormer loft conversion, with minimal alterations to your property. An option like this is more suitable if you find yourself on a budget.
4. Don’t heighten the roof unless necessary
For a loft conversion to feel like a proper room, the ceiling height needs to be 2.3 – 2.4 metres in height. This ensures that you have enough headroom to move around comfortably. If you already have enough useable space in your existing roof without raising the ceiling, this will save a lot of money. If you must heighten the roof space, that is where some of the build costs come in.
5. Consider your internal design
Although design features such as built-in wardrobe units and top-of-the-line ensuites are beautiful and seem essential, there are ways around these costly elements. Investing in a separate wardrobe or perhaps embarking on a DIY project to make some storage space, as well as more budget-friendly bathroom options will help you ‘free up’ money for ‘must have’ build requirements.
6. Complete paperwork in advance
Unfortunately, during a loft conversion, there is paperwork to be done. This includes staying in line with building regulations, planning permission applications and more. In some cases, if paperwork isn’t done on time, this can result in charges or changes to plans, creating more loft conversion costs. Getting all of this done in advance will decrease this likelihood!
7. Get the paintbrush out
When your new loft space is up and running, it’s time for the fun part. Many people look forward to decorating their most recent home improvement project and doing it yourself can save lots of money. A decorator can be quite expensive, and getting the paintbrush out can be a fun process, as well as being an easy way to save labour costs…
8. Enlist the professionals
Getting help from the professionals is the best way to ensure that your money is being used in the right way, on trustworthy materials and a reliable team. They are well equipped to detect which structural alterations are imperative and which are elective, meaning that you can make an informed decision about how to spend your money.
Here at Touchstone Lofts, we’re qualified to carry out your loft conversion project to the highest standard, and better yet, our prices are competitive and cost-effective. Handling everything from planning permission to the architectural designs, your new loft will look stunning. Just give us a call on 07889 760042 or email sales@touchstonelofts.co.uk.