Devon Loft Conversion Specialists give a brief description on the types of loft conversions available today throughout the local Devon area.
Statistics
show that an average loft conversion costs approximately
one-third of the cost of moving to a property with an
extra room. However bear in mind that it's still usually
easier to do a standard extension on a house than it is
to convert a loft. Of course, a converted loft should
increase the value of your house, but before starting
it may be worth speaking with your local Estate Agent!!!
Depending on what options you go for, and because every
house is different, the cost of converting a loft can
vary considerably.
There are two basic types of loft conversion. The first
is a Dormer conversion, and involves an extension onto
the roof. The second is known as a Velux conversion,
and this does not require any extension. The way these
types are reffered to actually refers to the tpye of
window which is used. The dormer standing out from the
roof and the velux being flush.
Ensure you have the correct planning permissions and
meet the fire regulations as breaking the law could
also null and void your insurance. If the loft is to
become habitable accommodation, (like in the case of
a home office) - you certainly need to comply with the
Building Regulations, and you may even need Planning
Permission - The Building Regulations are there to ensure
that a reasonable level of health and safety is maintained.
In the event that you discover you do need Planning
Permission ,in not doing this it's very likely that
you'll be forced to pay to have the work put right.
You may also encounter problems when trying to sell
your house.
Some important factors to consider with a Loft Conversion .:
Heating and ventilation - In mid summer as heat rises
from the rest of the house, the loft can get exceptionally
hot and stuffy - Good ventilation is essential to disperse
this heat so thought needs to be given to window sizes
etc.. However despite this movement of heat , there
is still a need to have some way of warming the room
in winter. What to use? radiators, or electric heaters?
Good insulation for the winter in a loft space will
be an important factor.
Lighting - apart from electrical lighting, think hard
about where you will put your window. A Wiring - you
will obviously need to wire up the loft so you've got
some form of power supply. Dormer windows will create
a "new" view over your surroundings (e.g.
your neighbour's garden), and as such will almost certainly
require planning permission.
Flooring - The Home Guide has a number of Flooring experts you may wish to consult.
Staircasing - how will you get up to the loft each day?
- retractable ladder, or non-retractable stairs?. Your
Building Regulations will have some impact on your choice.
Rafters - you may actually need to increase the height
of your roof space, which will involve taking off the
whole roof, extending the rafters, and then replacing
the roof.
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