If you are converting your loft then it’s the ideal opportunity to declutter your space. But while you’re working out what type of room you would like, where the windows will go and what furniture you would like up there, you may not feel like you have time for decluttering as well, so we thought we would give you some prompts to make the process easier…  Safety first You will need to get things out of your loft so that the conversion work can begin, so you might as well bring things down while you are decluttering. Generally, this is not a one-person job, especially as you may be dealing ..read more

We know we should be here telling you all the reasons why you should have a loft conversion, but we also want you to have made a really informed decision before you make the leap to transform your home. So what are the things you should bear in mind?    Aligning estimates and reality  While you will get estimates for your work – and it’s worth shopping around to find the right price, the right people, with the right insurances – not everything will always go to plan. It’s worth getting your numbers together and then adding 25% to the money you have put aside.  You won’t agr ..read more

A huge opportunity to increase value to your home while giving you options on how to create the space you really need, is it possible that all this could hinge on how well you get on with your neighbours?   The truth is, yes, there are some cases where your neighbours can intervene in your plans, so what are they?   It depends on your property type It’s unusual for you to need permission for your loft conversion with your neighbours – or planning permission from your council – but what you may need is a Party Wall Agreement. This comes into play when you have a property which is terr ..read more

Loft conversions offer up so many different options when it comes to room types and structure, that you’d understandably think that there’s a need to get an architect involved to help to design your loft conversion. But it isn’t. You can get the work done just fine without getting an architect involved, but it can save you a lot of time and stress (and money) if you do have one on board.    Things to consider  When your loft was first built, it was designed to be used as is, and it’s worth bearing this predetermined space in mind as you work to change it. Structurally, the space ..read more

Whether you are dreaming of adding a bedroom, bathroom or an extra chill out space, there are lots of different options for loft conversions and while all of them need to comply to building regulations, not all will require planning permission. In terms of the build and the adjustments to the roof, which type of loft conversion you go for will impact planning permission requirements.  Dormer loft conversions Extending vertically from your existing roof slope, a dormer loft conversion doesn’t usually dramatically change the exterior of your home, so in most cases you won’t need to apply fo ..read more

With many different types of loft conversion and multiple ways to make it your own (with different materials, types of insulation and windows), a shell loft conversion (or first-fix) is a basic type of conversion, perfect for people who may want to take on some DIY themselves, or have a limited budget.  Reading that sentence, it may feel that there isn’t much work involved, but that’s not correct… The first fix involves all major structural work, including the installation of joists, dormer(s) and structural floor. Once this shell has been fulfilled, it’s over to you to take on the design ..read more

While we all try to make the most of our space and the different options we have to make the most of our homes, many of us want to ensure that we reduce our impact on the environment, as much as possible. Given the way house prices are going, not to mention energy costs, there’s a lot to be said for staying put and expanding your home right now, so how do you create a loft conversion, while keeping your environmental impact to a minimum? The materials you use Reclaimed wood and bricks take no more energy to make, so the only impact using them will have on the environment will be their transpor ..read more

While there are many benefits of bringing natural light into every room, given its position away from the rest of the house, it is even more important in your loft area features windows, as they bring connection to the outside world and rest of the house. Adding windows makes the space more inviting, bringing psychological and physical benefits to improve overall wellbeing. And did you know natural light can improve the quality of your sleep? Most of us need that.  In our last blog, we looked at the difference between rooflights, skylights and roof windows. Hopefully that helped to give s ..read more

Your choice of windows can completely change the aesthetic and atmosphere of your loft conversion, and subsequently how you feel in it. With different styles to choose from, you will be able to get an idea of how your windows will look from different brochures and plans that your builder and architect will give you, but it can all get a bit confusing, and it’s not just about looks. There are different practical aspects to get to know before you make that investment, so what’s the difference between roof windows, rooflights and skylights?   Roof windows  While roof windows and skyligh ..read more

Have you been thinking about improving your home rather than moving? With the economy and the property market the way it is at the moment, you are not alone! According to analysis from Pepper Money, home improvement is becoming very popular with search volume hitting 59%: the most popular search being – you’ve guessed it – loft conversions.  In these ever-changing times, investment in your current property can feel like a more sound and sensible way to look after your money and your future needs.  While loft conversions may be the number one Google Search Trend result between April 2 ..read more