Have you thought about converting your loft, but when consulting a builder about the task in hand, there's been a lot of head-scratching before telling you that your space is 'unconvertable'?
If this is the case, we say you need to get yourself a loft conversion specialist! Here at Bespoke Lofts, we know that there is no such thing as a unconvertable loft. Yes, some lofts may be more complex to convert, or there may be more work involved – such as a new build loft conversion or when a water tank needs to be moved – but a specialist knows that nothing is impossible.
Can I create a new build loft conversion?
New build properties often have a reputation of having a unconvertable loft. This is usually due to the fact that modern roofs are made with a complex lattice of truss rafters, which criss-cross across the area and make it difficult to navigate around the space.
It's no good to be climbing over rafters in a converted loft room! This means that the roof structure needs to be altered to create a habitable space. This can make new build attic conversions slightly more tricky but by no means unconvertable.
For a successful new build loft conversion, your attic conversion specialist will need to remove the 'W' shaped truss rafters and replace them either with 'A' shaped rafters or steel beams that run the entire length of your roof. This will give you functional floor space.
You will also need to check any covenants on your new build property to ensure that you're actually allowed to convert the roof space, as some developers like the entire estate of new build homes to look the same.
The good news is that once you know you're allowed to convert the space and your specialist has dealt with the truss rafters, new build loft conversions rarely have a problem with head height, as they usually are the required height to start with. Always a silver lining!
What can I do if a water tank is taking up my loft space?
A general builder may tell you that your loft is unconvertable if there's a great big water tank in the middle of the room, taking up lots of space. This is usually because water tanks can be a hassle to move. However, they are by no means an obstacle when it comes to converting your roof space.
You have several options if your water tank is stopping you from extending into the loft:
- Move the tank: this sounds obvious, and it is. You can move the tank into an inconspicuous corner of the room, and this will instantly free up space.
- Install a combi boiler: combi boilers do not need a water tank, so having a Gas Safe Registered plumber change your boiler and heating system to use a combi boiler will mean you can remove the tank altogether.
- Install an unvented hot water cylinder: these can be installed almost anywhere in a house, so there is no need to have the water tank in the loft.
A loft conversion doesn't need to be a pipe dream if you think your water tank is holding you back. A specialist loft conversion company will have plenty of solutions for such situations.
What can I do if I don't have enough head height for a habitable room?
What is the best thing to do if you don't think you have enough head height in your proposed loft room? Consult a loft conversion specialist. They will be able to talk you through your options, from creating a dormer conversion for additional space to lowering the ceilings of the rooms on the floor below. There are plenty of ways that you can add extra room to your new loft room.
Can I convert the roof space of my flat?
Don't think that just because you live in a flat, a loft conversion is entirely out of the question. You will need to own the freehold of both your flat and the loft space, but there shouldn't be anything stopping you from converting your loft if you do. Don't forget that you'll need a party wall agreement with the people who live on the floors below you, but your specialist loft conversion company will be able to help you with that.
Think your loft space is unconvertable? Think again!
Regardless of what problems you think you may encounter, from whether you'll require planning permission through to wondering if you'll have enough natural light in your new room, a loft conversion specialist can talk you through them all.
A good loft conversion company will know how to create a bungalow loft conversion, attic conversions for terraced houses, and even a new build loft conversion.
As experts in building regulations, fire regulations, permitted development and everything in between, we have seen it all. Here at Bespoke Lofts, we focus on solutions rather than problems, so get in touch if you'd like to see how we can convert your unconvertable loft.