Knowing The Basics Of Loft Conversions In South East London And The Rest Of The UK   by loft conversions south east london

in Home / Remodeling    (submitted 2010-12-15)

What You Need To Know Before You Get A Loft Conversion In South East London And The UK

Hi im Scott Gowton and I run a Website which helps people understand and what they need to know about loft conversions in south east london, and in this article im going to share a little knowledge with everyone on the basics you need to know before you go a head with a loft conversion as it is a very popular way at the moment to extend your living capacity in your home.

A loft conversion is the process of transforming an empty loft space into a functional room, typically used as either living accommodation or storage space. Loft conversions are one of the most popular forms of home improvement in the UK as a result of their numerous perceived benefits. The installation of a loft conversion is a complicated process, and whilst it may be possible to attempt a ‘DIY’ loft conversion, the large amount of work involved often results in many people choosing to contract a specialist loft conversion company to undertake the task.

Types of loft conversions
There are two main types of loft conversion that are widespread:

Roof window conversion
Roof windows are often an attractive option for homeowners due to their ability to fit into the line of the roof; thus not necessitating any restructuring of the roof itself. The installation of such windows will provide the loft space with substantial light. A roof window conversion will sometimes not require planning permission, although they will always require building regulation approval (UK).

Dormer conversion
A dormer is a window-featured extension of the roof, usually installed to provide more space and headroom within the loft, in addition to improved staircase access. Dormers are also popular due to the aesthetic enhancement to a property that they provide. In the UK, the installation of a dormer is subject to planning permission requirements from the local authorities.

Other types of loft conversion
In addition to roof window and dormer conversions, there are less common 'hip to gable' and 'mansard' conversions, which can be installed when certain circumstances require their features.

Loft conversion feasibility
The first stage of any loft conversion is a close inspection of the loft space to find out its exact dimensions and whether conversion is feasible. On entering the loft one needs to establish if there is adequate room under the ridge of the roof. A measurement of 2.3 metres is required to allow enough headroom, although you may find that you can still get a useful room from as little as 7 feet (2.1 metres), and there must be at least 2 metres clearance above the position of the access stairs. The roof should be checked for any signs that rainwater is entering the roof space. The appearance of dark stains on the roof rafters is a strong indication that this problem exists. Repairs to the roof are usually carried out during the works as part of the loft conversion process due to the construction of dormers and fitting roof windows..
Due to the slope of the roof and the required access headroom, the feasibility of a loft conversion is dependant upon a minimum height of approximately 2.3 m (7 ft 6 in) measured from the joist to the apex. Providing that this requirement is met, most properties will likely possess the potential to have the loft space converted.

About the Author

im scott gowton the writer for loft conversions south east london and this site is to help people to decide what they want in a loft conversion and to stop them getting ripped off, it offers the best information on loft conversions in south east london and you will find it at http://loftconversionssoutheastlondon.com/