Loft Conversion Specialists – Ensuring The Whole Process Is Quick and Easy

A loft conversion is a great idea for those needing more space in their home and makes better use of an existing room in your home before adding more.

You often don’t need planning permission to convert a loft, and a loft conversion is less expensive than moving to a larger house.

Extending into a loft provides extra living space without sacrificing a chunk of your garden. Use a loft conversion specialist for the job and you’ll be able to tap into a wealth of local planning, design and technical knowledge too.

Here are a few things to consider if you’re thinking of extending upwards.

Why hire a loft conversion specialist rather than an architect or general builder?

A specialist can offer end-to-end service, from plans and execution to build. It’s always good to go to a specialist, as it’s their everyday job and there is no disconnect between the design and the actual physical build.

Do loft conversion companies offer different levels of services?

Many companies offer a number of options, depending on how much help you need; like

• Architectural only – Here ready drawings are produced for a client to hand to a contractor.
• Build only – This service is provided to those clients who already have their own drawings and want someone to build for them.
• Design and Build – This option is an all-round service, from concept to completion.

What happens at an initial consultation?

Most people tend to know what they want already, but the key is to add value by making the best possible use of their space.

It’s important to ask and not be prescriptive. A loft surveyor takes a design brief from the client and surveys the property internally and externally. The second briefing takes into account any design opportunities and constraints that have been highlighted by the survey.

Is there a need to take Planning Permission for a loft conversion?

Not always. In most cases, loft conversions tend to be considered Permitted Development, but your design will need to adhere to a number of specified parameters. If you plan on extending beyond limits and conditions of Planning Permissions.

You’ll also need Planning Permission if you are altering the roof height or shape. Roof lights and dormer can be installed under Permitted Development, but they must not sit forward of the roof plane on the principal elevation, nor must they be higher than the highest part of the existing roof.

Which aspects of Building Regulations are most likely to impact a loft design?

When converting a loft, you’ll need Building Regulations approval. A building control surveyor will inspect your conversion at various stages and will be responsible for issuing a completion certificate upon final inspection.

If your home is semi-detached or terraced, then you’ll need to notify your neighbours of your planned work if it falls under the requirements of the Party Wall Act. Also, you’ll need to take extra consideration to fire safety, insulation and the like.

How much does a loft conversion cost?

Room in Roof Loft Conversion Prices starts around £15,000 which is the cheapest and most straight forward option. his will usually involve:

• The reinforcement of the floor
• A couple of skylights
• Added insulation
• A staircase to the loft
• Electrics, lighting and heating
• Fire safety measures to comply with Building Regulations such as fire doors and smokeless alarms
• Your roof structure
• Existing available space
• Whether you need alterations in order to accommodate the staircase

These costs may be included in your quote from your builder, so it’s worth speaking to him in depth at the start of the project.

A standard single space conversion usually comes in somewhere between £22,000 to £35,000, if it’s to have a dormer window, cupboards in the evaes and en-suites bathroom etc. Choosing a well-qualified company or a loft conversion specialist means you’ll get amazing builders that will ensure the whole process is quick and easy.

Original Source: https://www.flexhouse.org/loft-conversion-specialists/

All You Need To Know About A Basic Loft Conversion

Thinking of adding more space to your home?

You can easily do that by going for a Basic Loft Conversion, which will not only add more space but is also affordable and adds value to your home. According to the Federation of Master Builders, a loft conversion can add up to  20% to the total value of the property. As most of the renovation work is done from outside, loft conversions are simple to carry out and causes very little disturbance.

What will you get with a Basic loft conversion?

Staircase to access the loft conversion.

Single bedroom with one or two Velux windows.

Are Planning Permissions and Building Warrants required?

Basic loft conversion with just Velux windows will not require Planning Permissions unless it’s in a conservation area or a listed building. The main areas which require a Building Warrant are:

• Fire

In the event of a fire, it’s really very important for you and your family to have a safe passage of exit. Fire regulations are less onerous if the loft conversion is in a bungalow, as it’s not too high and you can exit through a window.

But in a 2 storey house, the level of fire protection for a loft conversion can be surpassed.

For this kind of a situation, the stair enclosure is required to offer 30mins fire protection, all the doors require intumescent seals and existing upper floor ceilings will either need an extra layer of plasterboard or will need to be painted with an approved intumescent paint.

• Structural

As most of the loft is attic, spaces are not designed to be “Habitable Spaces”, some modifications in the structure are invariably required. This will always require a structural engineer. Most lofts can be converted with varying degrees of structural modifications.

• Insulation

Whether it’s a basic loft conversion or a high-end loft conversion, the level of insulation for either one is the same. A typical build-up of the sloping roof will be:

1. 100 mm Kingspan  insulation between the rafters
2. 25 mm Kingspan over the rafters
3. 30 mm service gap
4. 12.5 mm plasterboard finish

• Stairs

Again, whether it’s a basic loft conversion or a fancy one, building regulations are the same. Stairs come in all shapes and sizes so you can easily get one which suits your budget. For a Basic Loft  Conversion, MDF or Redwood is fine.

• Noise

The impact of noise can be reduced significantly by building a new floor in such a way that walls that divide your property with the next door will need to be constructed in accordance with the Building Standards, which covers both the airborne and impact noise.

Types of Loft Conversions:

Now that you have gained the basic idea about loft conversion, you should also know which type of conversion suits your space and budget. So here is a glimpse of different types of loft conversions:

• Velux Loft Conversion:

It’s a design that uses Velux windows, which are installed into the pitch of the roof, and this allows light into the room. It’s the most basic and cost-effective way of converting your loft.

• Dormer Loft Conversion:

Another popular option for an extension to the existing roof that projects vertically from a sloping roof, creating additional floor space and headroom within the property.

• Mansard Loft Conversion:

This loft conversion offers maximum space, the additional space created is tenfold, the required space for larger family rooms, bathrooms etc. The mansard has a flat roof with the back sloping inwards at 72 degrees.

• Hip-To-Glade  Loft Conversion:

A popular option for many semi-detacheds or detached properties with a limited existing loft space, making it difficult to create a loft conversion without extending your property. Now that you know about the requirements and variations in a Loft Conversion, you might have questions about the cost.  So let’s find out a little more about it.

How much does a basic loft conversion cost?

Loft conversion costs vary depending on the size, whether you’ll need to alter its structure for staircase access, the type of conversion you’re going for and where you live in the country, but as an average, a loft conversion will usually cost between £  15000 to £ 30000. This was a quick and precise insight for a Basic Loft Conversion. Hope this can answer your FAQs as much as possible.

Your Loft Conversion project doesn’t have to be complicated, but it can be challenging in that you are working with the structure that is already there. However,  bear in mind that it must meet the 2018 building regulations. So now you need to be stress-free and enjoy the process. You will soon have some additional space in your house and also increase its worth.

Original Source: https://www.mostinside.com/all-you-need-to-know-about-a-basic-loft-conversion/

Here are the tips for choosing the best loft conversion agency

Are you thinking of converting the loft area into a splendid zone and are thereby looking for professional help? In this case you are undoubtedly at the right place. Here you will get a genuine idea that how to choose the best loft conversion agency. There are several specialist agencies in relation to loft conversions chiswick. But the problem is that one may not come know that which source is genuine. The tips shared here will guide you that which kind of company would be able to handle the loft conversion process in an unprecedented manner.

These are the tips for selecting the best loft conversion company:

• See the past experience:

Before choosing any loft conversion company you should see their past experience in this field. Ask the agencies that what kinds of projects they have undertaken in the past and by this way you will get a realistic idea about their area of expertise. An experienced source would be able to help you in an exceptional manner and the executives would possess the necessary skills for loft conversion.

• Ask about the contract fee:

It is not necessary that all agencies will charge the same fee for loft conversion. The price charged by different sources will be different. The rates will also vary depending on the area coverage. Some agencies charge exaggerated sum of money from the clients and they render substandard services in return. It is always a better idea to stay away from such sources. Always choose a source that is charging reasonable amount of money. A genuine source will never make any false price statement and you will be able to afford the services without facing any hassles.

• Enquire about the timing factor:

One of the most important things in the loft conversion process is the timing factor. Do not give the contract to an agency which is slow and has bad reputation in the marketplace about the timing factor. Always choose a source that promises to complete the task within an agreed time period. If the loft conversion process would be delayed for long then the house will turn out to be a chaotic place. Thus the agency should be able to meet the promised deadline.

• Make sure that the agency can meet your customized needs:

Everyone will not have the same kind of requirement in relation to loft conversion. There can be different choices like an additional bedroom, office space, gym, library, playroom for children etc. Thus the customized needs of different house owners are going to be different. You should choose an agency that can understand your customized needs and thereby, should be able to fulfill the project as per proper planning.

• Always choose a professional source

There are lots of loft conversion agencies that are not that serious about their work. So, never choose a source that is having casual approach. Choose a company that depicts professional behavior and there should be excellent customer support services so that you can get clarification about your doubts.

So, these are the finest tips that will help you to choose the right company for loft conversion. Hire the best source as early as possible and it is assured that your home will get the much needed renovation.

Original Source: http://www.publishingmedia.org.uk/here-are-the-tips-for-choosing-the-best-loft-conversion-agency/

Know The Reasons Why You Should Plan for Loft Conversion

Loft is a room like structure under the roof surface and mostly it is seen that people are unable to utilize this space in the best possible manner. Loft conversion can really help in a great way. You can transform the empty or unutilized attic space into a highly functional zone. Thus, whether you are planning to have an extra bedroom, a small gym, storage area or a nice office setup, you can opt for loft conversion in any specific way.

Nowadays there are specialized agencies in the segment of loft conversion and their executives are highly trained to carry out such task with absolute finesse. Here you will come to know about the reasons that why loft conversions ealing are highly advantageous. So, stay tuned as the best information will be shared in the coming paragraphs.

Here are the benefits associated with loft conversion:

• Helps in increasing the space:

Loft conversion will surely help in increasing your living space in an unimaginable manner. So, if you always thought that the space in your house is limited then you should definitely hire a professional source for loft conversion. The space will be maximized and the house will be remodeled in an exceptional manner.

• Loft conversion is budget friendly

Many people think that they will have to spend a lot of money for loft conversion but this is a wrong perception. Even if you are having a tight budget then also you can make this kind of home improvement. A genuine agency will only charge a reasonable fee for loft conversion and your customized needs would be addressed in an unparalleled manner.

• Loft conversion doesn’t require new foundation:

Whenever one thinks of having an additional space in a house then the main problem is that a separate foundation is needed for building a new structure. This is not so in the case of loft conversion. It will have low impact because there is no need of any new foundation or any kind of additional space. Just the space below the roof level is utilized for the process of loft conversion.

• Demolition is very minimal:

A lot of people never plan for home remodeling because they think that it will involve demolition and they are eventually not ready to deal with the messy situation. In case of loft conversion there would be no chaos and even if the demolition will be involved then it is going to be really minimal. So, loft conversion is a much better option than full on renovation. The infrastructure is already in existence; only the modifications are required in the loft area so that remodeling can be done.

So, these are some of the main benefits associated with loft conversion. In reality there are many more advantages apart from these. If you will contact a genuine agency for loft conversion then you will get unbeatable support and the project would be handled as per your customized needs. Your place will turn out be much better after loft conversion. Thus, avail the wonderful facility as early as possible.

Original Source: http://www.spaciolibre.net/know-the-reasons-why-you-should-plan-for-loft-conversion.html

How Much Does A Loft Conversion Cost?

As we know not all the loft conversions are created equal; so accordingly their costs also vary depending on the size, type of conversation you are going for and where you live in the country.

Loft conversion not only adds extra space to your home but also adds to the property’s value; this is only possible when you are done with the loft conversion. No doubt, that it’s going to be a bit more of expenditure but you will surely get its return in the future.

As we initiate the thought of getting a loft conversion done, the first question that lingers in our mind is, ‘how much does a loft conversion cost?’

‘ABC LOFTS’ can help you answer the questions regarding the cost of loft conversion.

What to consider when evaluating cost:-

The points to be considered while evaluating the cost for the loft conversion are:

[a] Location

Location always plays an important part in the cost. Demand in your area will affect the price too, particularly of your building company.

[b] Size

The size of your home will determine the cost too, depending on how large your loft space is.

[c] What do you want your attic space for?

A loft conversion can typically be used as a bedroom, office space, gym, or storage space. Spend some thought on the use of your attic space; which will help you determine approximately how much the loft conversion would cost.

Loft conversion costing and budgets (cost breakdown):-

How much you will pay for the loft conversion depends on the type of project you undertake.

Below is the list of professional fees for your loft conversion which will give you an approximate idea on how much would your loft conversion cost.

[a] Architects fees

A typical £30,000 to £40,000 loft conversion would be in the region of £1,200 to £2,400 for planning drawings.

[b] Building Regulations fees

You need to pay a fee to the person who comes for inspection a few times to inspect whether the build is following the correct regulations and signs the certificate once you are done with the construction work.

• Under 40m2 – £385
• 40m2 to 60m2 – £460

[c] Engineer’s structural design fees

It lies in the region of £600 to £1,800

[d] Planning and certificate of lawful development fees

Loft conversion, if not carried out under Permitted Development Rights then a Householder Application cost would be £172. If you are using your Permitted Development Rights, it’s advisable to obtain a lawful certificate for £86.

[e] Building control fees

It would be in the region of £960 to £1,200.

[f] Builders

• This cost is obviously going to eat up the biggest chunk of your cost estimation.
• It’s always advisable to take estimates from different builders based on your architectural plan.
• Unforeseen issues may slightly raise the builder’s billing amount, so have a little contingency budget.

[g] Finishing touches

It’s the last but an important part of planning your budget for a loft conversion. Builder fees will only include the things mentioned in the plan; so read your detailed plan carefully and anything which is not mentioned will have to be funded from your budget instead.

Ask the builder to add things like your flooring, decoratives, bathrooms, wardrobes, bed, carpet, paints, etc.

As you can see there are many elements that you ought to consider when planning a loft conversion yourself too. But it’s generally a good idea to get professional help. Like the way ‘ABC LOFTS’ provides to ensure you have a quality loft conversion that stands the test of time and adds value to your property.

The post How Much Does A Loft Conversion Cost? appeared first on ABC Lofts : The Loft Conversion Specialist | ABC Lofts | West London.

source https://www.abclofts.co.uk/how-much-does-a-loft-conversion-cost/

How To Style Your Loft Conversions

Styling is not just limited to fashion and clothing, but it can also be done to the roof over one’s head.

A loft conversion can add value to your home, both in terms of adding extra space and by giving it a monetary value.

After building a loft conversion, the next task which comes into the picture is that of styling it.

So here are some tips and ideas which can help you successfully decorate your loft conversion.

Colours to style a loft conversion

The common characteristics of loft conversions are sloping ceilings and awkward corner spaces.

The colours chosen can enhance the area and make it look spacious, light and airy. ‘ABC LOFTS’ can help you complete your loft conversion by decorating and styling it and by making the most out of your structure, including those awkward corners and sloped ceilings.

During summer months when the temperature rises, lofts tend to get warmer due to their location at the top of the house. So, soft colours like warm greys, soft pinks or shades of white can aid a bit with helping the room feel cool, airy and create some light.

That doesn’t mean dark colours can’t be used or they are off the agenda completely. Beautiful and stunning focal points can be created by using your choice of paint or wallpaper on one of the walls. As many loft walls have interesting angles, it will create a beautiful contrast and enable the dark paint or wallpaper design to stand-out even more, producing a contemporary look.

Textures to style a loft conversion

Through the use of flooring and accessories, you can create a snug atmosphere. With any exposed beams in the loft wooden floors or wood-effect flooring can add a touch of colour and texture to the floor.

You can also add lots of cushions to the bed, of different tactile textures, and yes you can even place a chair or a small sofa if there’s room for it.

Lighting

You will have a plenty of natural light flooding into your loft conversion, from roof windows, dormer windows or balcony windows.

By including plenty of lamps and cleverly placed lighting you can add just the right amount of light in your loft room. For example, using roof lights or floor lamps can enhance the darker corners and small table lamps provide the perfect amount of ingenious and subtle light for reading.

Try adding a dimmer switch to your ceiling spotlights, which can help you have more control over light in your room.

Furniture ideas to style a loft conversion

It may not be practical to fit in standard-sized pieces of furniture if your loft conversion has lots of low sloped ceilings and beams. Here is one thing you can try; you can measure the space you have including the ceiling height, and also the room from which the furniture is to be carried upstairs to the loft.

You can also think of having bespoke furniture for a perfect fit. Bespoke pieces offer a more seamless look as they will be designed for your available space.

Storage ideas for a loft conversion

It’s a good idea to incorporate a storage unit to your loft interior and there are plenty of practical ways to do so.

You can build cupboards into sloping eaves roof and if your loft conversion is a relatively smaller space you can utilise hidden storage- such as storage built into the back of a headboard or storage drawers in bedsteads.

Customised storage solutions by ‘ABC LOFTS’ can help you maximize the space you have.

Now that you, have creative ideas and tips to decorate and style your loft conversion, try to make the best use of the space you have, add colours, designs and furniture to suit your individual needs. This will help you give a contemporary look to your loft conversion.

Image Source: corearchitect.co.uk

The post How To Style Your Loft Conversions appeared first on ABC Lofts : The Loft Conversion Specialist | ABC Lofts | West London.

source https://www.abclofts.co.uk/how-to-style-your-loft-conversions/

How to Choose a Company For Loft Conversion

Have you been thinking about converting a loft in your home to add more value and space? Perhaps your not sure where to start or how to go about it?

Is your loft space ideal for conversion?

Not all loft spaces are suitable for conversion, but most will convert well if you use your creativity and plan properly. There are three main things to consider:

Internal height: Measure your loft space from the top of the ceiling joists to under the ridge board in the apex. The optimum length is 2500 mm or thereabouts to optimally convert it.

Roof pitch: You also need to measure the angle of the roof. As you might know, the higher your pitch angle, the higher the central head height.

Footprint: As a rule of thumb the internal rules should measure around 5,500 sides including the chimney and 7,500 front to back. This is a general estimate but it is good practice for an ideal execution.

You can implement a loft conversion yourself but it is time and labour intensive. Some things are better left to a specialist. But how do you select a loft conversion company in London, especially with so many vendors?

Since loft conversion is an expensive affair, if you are not cautious the expenses can spiral out of control. Without the right expertise, you may end up compromising the plan or design, defeating the purpose of loft conversion.

If the conversion is not executed thoroughly by a loft conversion specialist, it can actually diminish the value of your property. For most people, a house extension or remodelling is a once-in-a-life-time project. You can’t really do it yourself because it involves a fair bit of complexity with tasks like:

Modification of the existing foundation where necessary to provide extra columns and joists for support:

• Electrification and Insulation
• Drainage and plumbing
• Walls, ceilings and flooring
• Painting and finishing

As you can see, each of the above-listed tasks is jobs best left for specialists of the trades as they require specific skills and equipment.

With your work commitments and limited experience in these areas, it is neither practical nor time efficient to find the right contractor for each of these tasks.

Before you start your search, ask yourself the following questions:

Ideally, you should hire a reliable building contractor to manage these specific aspects of your loft conversion in London. Most of these loft conversion specialists already have a working relationship with several tradesmen to expedite the process of converting the loft.

What to bear in mind when hiring a loft conversion specialist in London?

• Check their existing portfolio and check for loft conversion projects similar to yours.
• Discuss the scope of the project clearly with responsibilities and costs details.
• Take the full stock of all the material required and the cost details of each part of the work. This is to ensure the company will not rip you off.
• Ask for all the rebuilding estimates in writing with a breakdown and a written agreement. Also, make sure to include a schedule for completion of work.
• Ideally, contractors shouldn’t ask you for advance payments and the norm is to pay for the work on a pro-rata basis.
• Verify the company’s licenses and online reputation.
• Any responsible loft conversion company in London will take full responsibility of your project. This includes planning permissions, design approvals, construction, demolition, clearing up debris, and post-project support where required. Discuss this and get the agreement in writing.
• Don’t forget to check the company’s website for credentials, testimonials etc. You can also select a loft conversion company recommended by friends or family.

A reliable loft conversion company will not only deliver great results, but they will also suggest ways to optimise the space and save on unnecessary costs. With a little planning and research, you can convert your loft space beautifully within your budget.

Original Source: https://realtytimes.com/advicefromtheexpert/item/1026166-how-to-choose-a-company-for-loft-conversion