Types of loft conversions for different budgets
Loft conversions are a well-known way to increase the value of your home, giving you and your family or housemates more space to spread out. Space within your home can be invaluable and can even improve your family relationships and quality of life. However, now more than ever, it’s important for many people to be conscious of their budget, especially when undergoing home renovations. So, what types of loft conversion could suit your requirements and budget, and what will affect the cost?
What factors affect the cost of a loft conversion?
The main factor affecting the cost of a loft conversion will be the amount of construction alterations needed to be done to the property. For example, if you are requiring a conversion that creates the head height of a regular room, with no slanted roofs, this will need much more work than a conversion that uses the space as it is. This kind of construction also requires planning permission.
Planning permission can rack up some extra costs, with all the paperwork required and the drawings needed to be approved. It is also a good consideration to think about the interior of your new loft space. There are ways you can make this process slightly kinder to your budget, such as finding more cost-effective furniture or perhaps painting the space yourself. There are some cost-saving techniques you can employ to keep the expenses down.
Rooflight conversions: a cost-effective option
Rooflight loft conversions are the most cost-effective option if you are on a budget. This type of loft conversion uses the space in your loft that is already available. This type of conversion transforms your loft space into a liveable room, without moving any walls or ceilings. The minimal amount of construction alterations included in this conversion is what helps keep the costs down.
Dormer conversions: increased alterations
A dormer loft conversion is a great option if you are looking for more head height and space whilst still sticking to a modest budget. This conversion gives you more space, extending a section of your roof to be at a 90° angle to the floor. This adds the most value to your home whilst still being fairly kind to your wallet. There is the option to add an ensuite with this conversion, adding function as well as style.
Mansard dormer conversions: a premium option
Mansard dormer conversions are one of the most premium options you can have. The factor of this type of conversion affecting the cost is the amount of construction needed to complete the transformation. There is so much brickwork involved, as it essentially creates a whole new floor, offering a maximum amount of space. The whole wall is altered to create a 90° angle, with no sloped ceilings. This is around 20% more expensive than a dormer conversion but adds much value.
Hip to gable conversions: a popular extension
A hip to gable conversion is a popular conversion for end of terrace houses and semi-detached properties. With this conversion, you can find more ceiling height by extending the roof outwards to the side, creating a square roof instead of a sloped roof. This allows more head height and allows you to have more options with how you use your room. Usually between £60,000 and £80,000, this conversion is in the middle of the road, not as premium as a mansard conversion, but not a budget option.
With all the types of loft conversions available, it is important to think not only of what it is kindest to your budget, but also which will add the most value to your home. It could be that for a slight extra cost, the value you could add would allow you to make your money back once you sell your property.
If you require some advice about the type of loft conversion that will be the most suitable for your home, our experts will be able to help you. Get in touch with us on 0800 881 8194 – we can help you make the most of your property.