Conversions

Conversions

How You Can Do A Basement Conversion

15th June 20230

Everybody wants more space in their home. Most of the homeowners are looking for ways for basement conversion to create more space beneath their existing houses. Unlike loft conversion, which helps you create additional bedrooms, a basement is located beneath your home and provides easy access.

Options for Basement Conversion

To convert your basement, there are the following routes:

  • Basement as a part of a new build
  • Renovating existing cellar or basement
  • You can also think of creating a new basement in an existing home, or you can extend the cellar out in the garden.

In this article, we are going to deal with 2nd and 3rd option.

How Can You Use Basement For?

A basement can provide additional living space for your families such as an entertainment room, or playroom for your kids. Furthermore, it is an ideal location for relocating boiler, utility room, storage, or you can use it to store items to free up some space on above-ground.

Alternatively, you can have an external entrance for the basement to use it as a home office. If you want to sell it as an independent dwelling, then you need to express consent.

Is Basement Conversion Worth it?

Whether the cellar conversion worth it or not depends on the value of your property. If your house is in a high-value area, then it is a good idea to add some lower ground floor space. If you are living in central London or other sought-after urban centers, then a basement conversion is a good bet. But if you are living elsewhere, then you need to careful analysis. To get an idea about the worth of your house; you can contact with a local estate agent, as he or she can help you get an idea about the value per square meter in your area.

You should keep in mind that a basement living space with an external entrance worth more than a dark cellar. Also, you need to keep in mind that the ceiling value for the location has a maximum value. There is a threshold when it comes to the cost of a property. So, using high-quality materials cannot help increase the value of your estate above that. If you are looking for garage conversion or a loft conversion, you should keep in mind that a basement conversion costs the same as a loft. However, creating a basement from scratch is expensive, but you get more usable floor space with a cellar compared to loft conversion.

Planning Permission for Basement Conversion

If you are going to convert a cellar under your property, then you do not need planning permission. Your property’s Permitted Development will cover these kinds of house extensions.

However, if you are going to reduce the floor level to improve the ceiling height of cellar, then it will be treated as an extension, hence requires planning permission. There are some circumstances, in which you can undertake an alteration or extension without the need of planning application. (For more information you can visit UKGovWeb )

Planning policy can vary in case of a basement conversion because it is difficult for the local council to find a reason for the refusal. Cellar conversion does not require alteration in the building’s appearance, so there is no need for planning permission.

Basements and Building Regulations

A basement conversion requires building regulations, whether it involves the creation of a new basement or a change of use of an existing cellar. These regulations are minimum standards for construction to make sure buildings are hygienic, energy-efficient, and safe. If you are going to renovate or repair an existing cellar, then it is excluded from the building regulations.

If you want to know more about these regulations, then you can get a copy of approved documents, which includes all the rules and regulations. We will advise you to make a full application for conversion, instead to follow the notice procedures. Because, in this way, you will have time to resolve any issues with the design.

Party Wall Act

If the conversion affects a Party wall, then it is your responsibility to inform the house owner. To get permission to start work, you need their signs on the party wall act.

(Image credit: Simon Maxwell)
Conversions

Transforming Your Garage into Functional Living Space 

14th June 20230

As property prices continue to rise and the need for additional living space grows, homeowners in the UK are increasingly turning to innovative solutions to maximize their homes’ potential. One such solution gaining popularity is the garage conversion. By repurposing a garage into a functional living space, homeowners can not only add value to their property but also create a versatile area that meets their specific needs. In this article, we will explore the process, benefits, and considerations associated with a garage conversion in the UK. 

The Garage Conversion Process 

Planning and Research:

The first step in any garage conversion project is thorough planning and research. Start by checking with your local planning department to determine whether you need planning permission or if the project falls under permitted development rights. Consulting with professionals such as architects, builders, or contractors will help you understand the feasibility of the conversion and ensure compliance with building regulations.

Design and Layout of the garage:

Consider your desired use for the converted space. Whether you envision a home office, an additional bedroom, a playroom, or a gym, understanding your requirements will help guide the design and layout of the space. 

Structural Modifications:

Once the design is finalized, structural modifications may be required. This can include installing additional windows or doors, altering the plumbing or electrical systems, or reinforcing the garage structure if necessary. Hiring experienced professionals will ensure that these modifications are carried out safely and in compliance with building regulations. 

Insulation and Ventilation:

Garages are typically not designed to be habitable spaces, so proper insulation and ventilation are crucial for comfort and energy efficiency. Insulate the walls, floor, and roof to regulate temperature and reduce noise. Ensure adequate ventilation by installing windows or vents to promote air circulation. 

Plumbing, Heating, and Electrical Systems:

If your garage conversion requires plumbing, heating, or electrical work, it is essential to hire qualified professionals. These experts will ensure that the new systems are installed safely and in accordance with building regulations. Consider incorporating energy-efficient solutions to reduce long-term utility costs. 

Interior Finishes:

The final step is to transform the converted space into a functional and visually appealing living area. Choose flooring, wall finishes, lighting fixtures, and furnishings that align with the desired purpose of the room. Careful attention to detail during this stage will help create a seamless transition from a garage to a fully integrated living space. 

Benefits of a Garage Conversion 

  • Increased Living Space: One of the most significant advantages of a garage conversion is the creation of additional living space. This allows homeowners to adapt their homes to changing needs without the hassle and expense of moving. 
  • Enhanced Property Value: A well-executed garage conversion can significantly increase the value of your property. By maximizing the available square footage, you can attract potential buyers or tenants seeking versatile living spaces. 
  • Cost-Effective Solution: Compared to other types of home extensions, a garage conversion is often a more cost-effective option. The existing structure and foundation reduce construction costs, making it an attractive choice for homeowners on a budget. 

Considerations and Potential Challenges 

While a garage conversion offers numerous benefits, it is important to consider some potential challenges: 

  • Planning Permission: Depending on the location and nature of the conversion, you may require planning permission from your local authority. Consult with professionals to ensure compliance with the necessary regulations. 
  • Building Regulations: Garage conversions must comply with building regulations to ensure structural integrity, safety, and energy efficiency. Seek expert advice to ensure your project meets all requirements. 
  • Parking Space: Converting a garage means losing a dedicated parking space. Consider the impact this may have on your lifestyle and potential implications for selling the property in the future. 
Credit – https://www.iqglassuk.com/projects/the-stables-frameless-glass-link/s53738/

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Loft Conversion

Step by Step Guide for Loft Conversion

5th June 20230

There are lots of steps that you need to take for a loft conversion. One of the daunting tasks is to find where to start. But fear not as we are here to help make this process easier for you. In this article, we are going to share the key steps that you consider for converting your loft.

Can You Convert Your Loft?

The first thing that you need to ensure is whether the loft space is suitable for conversion or not. Many houses have permitted development, which means the owner can convert the space without planning permission. But if you are living in another area of your roof space is not tall, then the process can be complicated. You need to ask a builder, architectural services provider, or a surveyor to figure this out for you. However, there are other checks too that you need to carry out on your own.

Other Conversions on Your Street

One of the best ways to figure out whether you can convert your loft is to see similar houses on your street with loft conversions. If there are some houses, then there is a possibility that you can do this too. We will advise you to take a step further and ask them to take a look at their loft.

Head Height

Another thing to consider is the height of the head. The minimum height required for a loft conversion is 2.2m. You do not need an expert to measure it, just take a tape measure and run from floor to the ceiling. If it is 2.2 or more, then you can easily convert the loft.

Type of Roof

The type of roof depends on when your house was built. Some of the homes have roof rafters, and some have trusses. You can quickly tell which kind of roof you have by looking through the loft hatch.

The rafters usually run along the edge of the roof. They leave most of the triangular space below hollow. In the case of trusses, these are supports that run through the cross-section of the loft. If you have trusses, then it is easy for you to convert the loft, but you will need extra support for the structure to replace them. Hence, it can cost more than rafters.

Flooring

Most of the people ignore the floor under the ceiling when planning a conversion. You need to consider the place where the staircase will go and how much space they will take up. Even if you have a well-designed staircase, it will still take a sizeable space. So, make sure that you have spare space to lose.

Type of Loft Conversion

Do you know about the types of a loft conversion? Fear not, there are only four main types of conversions: dormer, roof light, mansard, and hip-to-gable. Several factors determine your choice, including age and model of the house, and your budget.

Roof Light Conversion

If you are looking for a cheap and disruptive option, then roof light conversion is what you have. The reason is that this conversion does not require any changes in the pitch and shape of the roof. You just need to add skylight windows, adding a staircase, and laying a proper floor. However, you need to have a lot of space for this type of conversion.

Dormer Loft Conversion

This type of conversion is just a House Extension that protrudes from the slope of the roof. Flat-roof dormers are very popular these days and suitable for any house with a sloping roof. This type of loft conversion is expensive than roof light but cheaper than hip-to-gable or mansard. However, it can still help you get extra floor space and headroom.

Hip-to-Gable Loft Conversion

The third type of conversion is hip-to-gable, which works by extending the slope of the roof. You need to create a vertical ‘gable’ wall. In this way, you can create more space inside the loft. However, this type of conversion is only suitable for detached houses.

If you have a detached house, then you can build a hip-to-gable extension quickly with more space.

Mansard Loft Conversion

In this conversion, you need to alter the angle of the roof slope to make it more vertical. It is the most expensive conversion, but you can get a significant amount of extra space. It is suitable for many kinds of properties, such as detached, terraced, and semi-detached houses.

How to Choose A Builder?

You can find many builders in your region, but it is always better to start with a recommendation. You can ask your friends or family, or you can search online if there is any local builder. If anyone in your neighbourhood had done a loft conversion, knock at their door and ask about the builder. When searching online, never forget to read reviews before hiring them. We will advise you to contact their previous clients and ask about their experience working with the builder.

Conversions

Things You Need To Know When Converting Your Bungalow

7th February 20230

Converting your bungalow by extending upwards or adding another storey is a great way to add lots of space at an affordable price. If you have a larger property you may be able to extend the back and the side of the property.

Converting the loft –

You can extend upward. There are four main types of loft conversions that can be suited for bungalows. They are a dormer loft conversion, a hip to gable conversion, a Velux conversion, or a mansard loft conversion. Before you decide on what conversion you like you should get advice on the best type of conversion for your bungalow, depending on its existing structure.

Most bungalow loft conversions don’t require planning permission and it comes under permitted development. As long as they meet some key conditions:

  • Firtsly, if your bungalow is in a conservation area or an area of outstanding natural beauty then you will need to apply for planning permission.
  • Secondly, you’re not allowed to raise the height of the roof
  • On the main elevation facing the highway, you’re not allowed to construct dormers or anything that projects out of the roof.
  • No balconies or raised platforms are permitted
  • Finally, materials must be similar in appearance to the existing bungalow

One of the big attractions of converting a bungalow loft is that it is usually a lot cheaper than a conversion in a regular home. A simple conversion would likely cost around £20,000 to £25,000 for a standard bedroom. Whereas, if you want to add dormer windows and an En suite the prices could be around £40,00. The most a loft conversion could cost with everything included could be around £65,000.

A typical bungalow loft conversion can take about 6 to 8 weeks. Although if you have to apply for planning permission you would need to add a couple of months to the timescale.

Bungalow Extension –

You do not need planning permission for an extension if you build within your permitted development rights. Without planning permission, you can build up to 6 meters or 8 depending on if your house is detached. The average single-storey bungalow extension cost is around £1875 per meter square.

Homeowners in the UK could add up to £100,000 to the value of their homes by converting their property.

Credits: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/pin/333759022387246589/

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Loft Conversion

How To Create A Loft Conversion On A Budget

6th January 20230

Really want to add more living space to your home? Here’s how you can achieve a loft conversion on a budget.  

What Is A Loft Conversion?  

A loft conversion is the process of transforming an empty attic space into a functional room. And these are usually used as a bedroom, office space, gym, or storage space. 

Will You Need Planning Permission? 

So, most conversions do not require a planning permit, this is good because it will help save money on getting the permission. However, you are required to obtain permission if you alter the roof space in any way. If the head height of the roof is above 2.2 m you should be okay. But the best way to find out if you need permission is to check with the local council or planning officer. It is also good to check because if you go ahead without permission and you end up needing it, they can fine you. And that’s not what you want when trying to stay within a budget. 

Another way you can save some money is by not using an architect and doing the majority of the stuff DIY. There is no rule saying you need to have one, but it is highly recommended that you use architectural services when it comes to your project.  

It is a lot cheaper and straightforward to do a loft conversion compared to an extension. So, it is perfect for people who do not have much time and are on a budget. A dormer conversion is the cheapest type of loft conversion.  flat and shed roof dormers have simpler styles and reduce the cost.   

What Is A Dormer? 

A dormer loft conversion is when a box-shaped structure is added onto a pitched-shaped roof. Creating walls that sit at a 90-degree angle to the floor. This expands not only the headspace but the floor space as well.  

Dormer loft conversion,
A Dormer Loft Conversion

On average it can take up to 8 weeks or as little as 4 weeks, with certain styles less complex than others.  

Not everything about the conversion has to be professionally done. The interior finish can be your project. You can paint, wallpaper, hang curtains, fit the carpets. Anything that you do yourself is cutting costs.  

If you are including an En-suite in the loft hiring a plumber is an extra cost. Try positioning the bathroom right above the plumbing below, or near it. It saves a lot of work.  

If you are on a budget smaller loft conversions can benefit from the more natural light coming in. It is also good to use natural, lighter colours when decorating because it helps give the illusion of spaciousness.  

To be able to access the loft you would need a staircase to enter. A straight staircase is the most common style and affordable to build. The highest part of the loft, in line with the roof ridge, is an ideal location for the stairs.  

Pricing Of A Loft Conversion –  

There are many types of loft conversions which means the prices can differ. For a deluxe conversion expect to pay anywhere between £20,000 and £27,000. Whereas, the cost of a basic conversion could be somewhere between £9,800 and £12,500.   

For a DIY conversion the prices are a bit different:  

  • Price range – £9,400 – £48,000 
  • Average price – £29,100 
  • Cheap price – £9,400 

Although you might have done this project on a budget, a loft conversion can increase the house’s value by as much as 20%.  

Loft conversions
Loft Conversion

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Conversions

Everything There Is To Know About Barn Conversions

5th January 20230

What is a barn conversion? 

A barn conversion is the adaptation of a farm barn into a building serving a different use. For example, a house. 

Barn conversions are so popular because they present the opportunity to create flexible living spaces that can adapt to the needs of modern life. Barns are often in rural areas so if you are looking for a quiet area away from the city to raise a family, this would be perfect for you.  

If you are looking to start a barn conversion you will need full planning permission. And if your barn doesn’t meet the full requirements, You should submit a full planning application to your local council. And seek consent to convert your barn.  

Once the planning permission is submitted, the decision takes a minimum of five weeks. Once work starts on site regular inspections will be made.  

Building and designing –

Some people think that because the shell of the building is in place already that they might not need an architect. However, barn conversion projects can be even more taxing at the design stages than new homes.  

The key is to achieve the best balance between actual living space and the barn’s original character. This is because it is important to keep the character and features like the old beams and timber cladding. And it is important to remember why you loved it in the first place. 

So, because originally farm buildings are uninsulated if you are converting it into a house, it will be a key job to get the place insulated. In most cases, people want to preserve the internal cladding so you will have to insulate from the inside. Typically, you would fit breathable insulation such as a sheep’s wool wall between the studs. And then the wool will be covered by plasterboard. And then dig through the floors to accommodate underfloor heating or rigid insulation boards.  

How much will a barn conversion cost? 

A converted barn is one of the higher-end conversions you can do, they usually cost a lot more than building a new structure. It is not a project for those on a tight budget. The average barn conversion costs around £275,000, it is important not to cut corners during the process because it will lead to issues down the line.  

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Flat Conversions

Flat Conversions – A Step-By-Step Guide

5th January 20230

The prospect of transforming houses into a flat is becoming exceedingly popular. With a high demand for flats across the South East, breaking a property down into units can increase the potential for rental income in the short term. It can also improve profit on sales in the long term.

The only major obstacle many people face is – how do you know where to start? Here at Pro Arkitects – Design & Build Experts, we can tell you everything about converting houses into flats.

Step 1: Market Researching

One question many landlords fail to ask when purchasing a house is – are flats wanted in the neighbourhood? This is an important topic to consider because if an error occurs, the effects could be highly costly. It’s crucial to make sure you have a market for your new properties before you have even thought about conversions. We understand that market research takes time. However, it is the best way to ensure that the flats you’re intending to build are wanted.

Furthermore, it’s worth pointing out that some communities and neighbourhoods are in more significant demand of flats than others. An ideal method for elevating profits is researching the market because in-demand locations and higher rents go well together.

Step 2: Implications for Planning

Contacting the planning department of your local council is the next thing you’ll have to do. As you will more than likely need permission. If the project is accepted and permission is granted, you’ll have to apply for Building Regulations before any work commences.

If you haven’t yet purchased the house you intend to convert into flats, you should check with the local planning department before investing. Additionally, there may be certain requirements for you to consider. These can vary from; minimum flat size, soundproofing between the neighbouring flats, insulation for energy efficiency and comfort, fire safety, and potentially more. Parking availability may also play a role. These necessities of course depend upon the respective neighbourhood.

As well as this, you will need to consult a solicitor to make sure there are no legal restrictions preventing your planned renovations from taking place. Your lender will also be required to be involved in your plans if the house is being mortgaged. Certain banks are willing to accommodate landlords by offering loans to assist with the development and/or refurbishment. Others, however, will be more discouraging and will not allow mortgage holders to transform their houses into flats.

Step 3: The Costing Element

Varying vastly from property to property, the cost of converting your house into flats will depend upon the size, the design of the new house, and the number of flats being converted. Approximately, you’d be expected to pay £25,000 for a simple conversion. This will involve the placement of new walls and the installations of central heating units and bathrooms. Moreover, you will need to talk to utility companies to ensure that each flat has its own electricity, gas, and water meters.

Step 4: Legal Requirements for a flat

It is crucial that you inform the solicitor handling the legal transaction of your conversion plans. In addition to this, your solicitor should be able to draw up leases for separate dwellings. Which you will require if you then plan on selling the properties.

Transforming a house into flats is a strong way of making a profit, but sometimes, not all houses are good candidates. This is where your estate agent comes in. They can help you in finding the ideal property to convert, whilst determining which neighbourhoods offer the greatest potential.

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Conversions

Basement Conversion in London Guide for Homeowners

6th December 20220

Basement conversion in London can help provide valuable extra living space, and it does not require any change to the exterior of your home. Everybody wants more space in the home, and one of the ways is by house extension or converting the basement.

Loft Conversion provides additional living space on the top of the house. You can use it to create additional bedrooms. On the other hand, a basement is close to the main living space and access.

Options for Basement Conversion in London

If you want to create living space underneath the home, then there are the following routes:

  • You can create a basement
  • Or you can renovate an existing cellar or basement
  • If your house does not have a basement, then you can build a new one underneath the home or can extend out into the garden.

In this article, we are going to discuss 2nd and 3rd routes.

How Can You Use Basement For?

There is no doubt that the basement is a great space for your family; you can convert it into a home entertainment room or playroom. You can also use it as a utility room, storage and boiler furthermore, as the basement has its external entrance which makes it a self-contained unit, which makes it an ideal space for annexes or home office. If you want to make It an independent separate dwelling, then you need to express consent.

Does Basement Conversion London Worth It?

Whether a basement or cellar conversion worth your money depends on the cost and value of the property, additional living space under the house does make financial sense in high-value areas. If you are living outside London, then you need to take this decision after careful analysis. If you want to get an idea about the worth of space per square meter, then you can ask them from a local estate agent.

However, you should keep in mind that a basement with direct access worth more than any other dark cellar space. You also need to keep in mind that an area has a maximum value which you cannot exceed no matter what improvements you make. It also means that converting your basement is not going to increase the value of the property.

Sometimes, it is challenging to decide whether to convert a loft or a cellar. Because both of them costs about the same, but building a basement from scratch is a daunting and expensive task. However, creating a cellar will provide you with useable floor space compared to loft conversion.

Planning Permission for Basement Conversion in London

If you already have a cellar beneath your home, then you do not require planning permission for conversion. Because it comes under permitted development unless you are in a conservation area, if you are going to reduce the floor level of a basement to improve the ceiling height, then it will be treated as an extension which needs planning permission. However, some of the alterations and extensions also do not require a planning application; for more information, you can visit the planning portal, or you can visit the office of the local council.

The planning policy for the basement varies from one location to another. However, getting approval from the local council is not that difficult. If the work is not going to alter the appearance of the house, then the council does not have reasonable grounds for refusal. We have seen many people made iceberg basements which indicates that the policy for basements is still under review.

Basements and Building Regulations

If you are going to create a new basement, then you need building regulations approval. It does not depend on whether you are going to use existing cellar or creating a new one. These regulations are to make sure that the buildings are safe, energy-efficient, and hygienic. Renovating or repairing a current basement does not require building regulations approval.

You can download the documents from the government website. That is why; we recommend our clients to apply for planning permission rather than waiting for notice.

Party Wall Act

If the work is going to affect any party wall, for example, if the excavation is to be carried out near a party wall, or you are going to extend the wall. In such a case, it is essential to inform all the owners of adjoining properties.

How Long Do Basement Conversions in London Take?

A basement conversion usually takes a few weeks to complete. If you are going to convert a simple bedroom, then it will take just two or three weeks. But if you are going to convert the basement of the entire house, then it can take several months. Furthermore, if you can access directly, then you can live in your home during the work. But if the contractor has to remove the ground floor and rebuilt it, then you have to move out.

Conversions

Steps for Successful Barn Conversion

5th December 20220

The barn conversion is a unique way to carve out your country’s life. But you need to keep in mind that the structures are not meant to deliver comfort. Furthermore, it requires a significant amount of work for barn conversion from scratch.

You need an excellent architectural services provider that can provide you with designs that brings the original character out once the work is finished. So, how you can convert a ban in your property? In this article, we are going to share steps for a barn conversion.

Finding a Property for Barn Conversion

You can contact estate agents for finding a property where you want to live in. But bear in mind that they will more likely advertise finished houses than wrecks. Another way to look for barn conversion is on the local paper. They may have an advertisement for a place which is suitable for you. You can also search online, there are sites like Renovate Alerts and Barns etc. to find appropriate opportunities.

Finances for Barn Conversion

If you are looking for a loan, then there is bad news for you. Conventional mortgages are not meant for conversion projects. That is why; you need to look for a self-build mortgage.

Do You Need Planning Permission?

Well, you can change agricultural buildings to residential ones in England. However, you need to notify the local council about it. It is better to check with the local council about approval of noise impact, contamination, vehicular access, and flood risk. Furthermore, the council will check if there is the harm in changing from agricultural to residential use. The process is not simple but more straightforward than making a full planning application.

Survey

Usually, the barns are used for storage and other agricultural needs and not meant for living. So, it is essential to hire a surveyor to checks its stability. Things that you need to look are the foundations, roof structure, and load-bearing walls. If you need to add the second storey, then the barn will need underpinning.

Using this information, you can decide whether the property is suitable for you or not.

Barn Conversion Designer

Some of the people think that they do not need the help of architectural services providers as they already have a building in place. Well, they are not right as a barn conversion have more design stages than a new home.

Hence, you need the help of experienced professionals that can use the existing structure. A lot of effort is required to make use of the current structure of a barn and convert it into a living space with most of the features.

Want to Retain Barn Structure

What will the design of your new home have? Of course, the original character of a barn. That is the main attraction of a barn conversion. A barn features include timber cladding, old beams and beautiful stonework, which can bring a unique character to your new home after the work is finished.

If you can do it in the right way, then you will have a unique and beautiful property to sell in the future. You may need to introduce new materials but do it carefully.

Insulating Barn Conversion

A barn is meant to store agricultural things and not intended for living. Hence, they have not insulated property. One of the first things that you need is to insulate the barn according to the modern standards. Some people want to preserve the cladding, so they need to insulate the walls internally. There are various ways to do this, such as fitting breathable insulation such as sheep wool.

Furthermore, if you want to keep the vaulted ceilings too, then you need to fit the insulation between rafters. You also need to dig the floor to install insulation boards.

Utilities and Services

It is usual for the barns not to have water, gas, drainage, and electricity. Hence, you will need these connections for the conversion, just like other house extensions. Get quotes from the utility suppliers to get an estimate of the cost. A rough estimate is that it can add up £1000 to your budget.

Barn Conversion Heating

Most of the experts recommend underfloor heating for barns. Because it is a great way to keep the living space warm, it also means that you do not need to attach radiators to the walls. It can get cold in the UK, so it is better to have an efficient heating system for the conversion.

Natural Light

Most of the barns in the country have large openings enough to satisfy demands of brightness. It also means that you do not need to puncture the structure for windows—however, some of the people like modern roof lights in the property. Well, you have the opportunity to convert the barn in the way you like. As far as natural light concerns, there is enough room for that.

Loft Conversion

Different types of bungalow loft conversions 

29th November 20220

Bungalows offer great loft conversion potential. They maximise the roof space and create plenty of possibilities. There are four main types of loft conversion that can be appropriate for bungalows. For example: a dormer, hip to gable, Velux, and mansard conversion. Here is a guide to figure out which one if best for your home.  

Types of loft conversions –  

Hip to gable –  

Firstly, a hip to gable loft conversion is where the sloping side of the roof is converted to a vertical gable wall to create more headspace. Bungalows which are semi-detached will often have a hipped roof that slopes at the side. This can be turned into a gable and you are left with a spacious loft and a great amount of head height.  

Benefits of a hip to gable conversion –  

The biggest benefit is the space that you will gain. All this additional room should increase the value of your home, especially if you are adding a bedroom or a bathroom. Also, the staircase from the lower level should be a continuation into the loft. So, this makes the entrance easier to access and uses less living space from the floor below.  

Price – 

Furthermore, the average cost of a hip to gable loft conversion is £40,000 – £50,000.  

Dormer –  

Secondly, dormers create a box shaped structure which is added onto a pitched roof, creating walls that sit at a 90-degree angle to the floor. Also, you can have a dormer in various positions on your roof and you can add more if you want a bigger room inside.  

Price –

So, the average cost of a dormer loft conversion is around – £35,000 – £55,000.  

Velux –  

Velux loft conversions are where the existing roof space is converted into living space without extending the roof structure. There are best for bungalows that already have enough head height. In addition, a roof light or Velux window would be added into the roof to make the new room bright.  

Price –  

Velux is usually the cheapest option because, it requires the least amount of work. Prices can start from £24,000.  

Mansard –  

Finally, a mansard can add a huge amount of space to your loft. A Mansard conversion has a flat roof with a slight fall to allow water to run into the gutter and the face of the Mansard slopes back 72 degrees to create the distinctive design. 

Image credit: Jeremy Phillips

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