Loft or attic conversion involves transforming the space in the attic or loft of a house into a more useful room. Most homeowners, especially in the UK, have realized that there is more than they can do with their lofts, given that they take more than 30% of the total house space. That is why the demand for loft conversion services has gone high recently. If you want to add functionality to your loft, here are a few tips that will get you started.
Decide Why You Want the Conversion
Why do you want to convert your loft into a bedroom or gym? Are you doing it for aesthetics or you are in need of extra functional rooms? Whatever reasons you have, make sure that the conversion makes your life in the house better. Come up with a design that matches your décor and style.
Plan for the Conversion Adequately
Once you decide why you want your attic converted into a more useful space, come up with a conversion plan. The most important step in loft conversion is planning. You will not get anything else right if your planning is poor. For starters, get the required permission from the relevant authorities where necessary. Once you have been given the green light to continue, engage an architect to draw the plan for the conversion especially if your house is based on a fully-fledged architectural design. Consider all the factors that may influence the conversion such as the roof pitch and structure as well as obstacles such as chimneys and water tanks. Don’t forget to consider your budget too.
Go for the Least Invasive Conversion
It should be possible for you to convert the space in your loft into a more useful room without interfering with the overall structure of the house. Where the conversion is too invasive, it may not be feasible. Some of the least invasive forms of conversion include installation of roof windows, dormer conversion, and mansard conversions. Loft conversions that require you to raise the roof or lower the ceiling, for instance, will be too involving and expensive.
Don’t Do It Yourself
Finally, a loft conversion job is not a DIY task. It may look easy to convert a loft into an office or bathroom all by yourself. While it is possible, it is not advisable. Always hire a professional in your area to do any home renovation or remodeling task. These experts will be certified, licensed and fully insured. They also know the prevailing construction and building codes and standards, and they will make sure that you are on the right side of the law as you make your loft more useful. Indeed, they always want to leave a lasting impression in your life. They want to do a good job. That is why they normally examine the available space in your loft before they decide whether conversion is feasible or not. Remember that there should be enough space in the loft for a functional room for conversion to be feasible.…