If you want to add some space and value to your home, then a loft conversion is the best way to do that. Not only will you have more space to keep furniture and other essential items, but the property’s price will also increase.
According to statistics, a loft conversion can enhance the value of a property by up to 20%.
However, loft conversions are pretty time-consuming, and if you don’t do them the right way, it can cost you a lot in the future. So, here are some common loft conversion mistakes and how to avoid them!
1. Not Paying Attention to the Loft Conversion Planning Permission
One of the most common loft conversion mistakes is not paying attention to planning permissions before starting the work.
Planning permission is necessary for all types of loft conversions because factors like the loft space and the conversion size are important. If you’re not sure of how to obtain the permissions, get in touch with a building company or contractor.
Even the amount by which you want to alter the area will have to be cleared by proper compliance clearance.
If you don’t obtain the right permissions at the right time, it can lead to hefty fines or redoing the entire loft conversion. It’s best to consult your local councillor or any other professional who might be aware of this.
2. Selecting the Wrong Conversion Type
Another common loft conversion mistake is not knowing which type of conversion you want. Some common types homeowners choose are the dormer loft conversions, the Velux loft conversions, and the mansard loft conversions.
- Dormer Loft Conversion: These conversions are quite easy, and some might even consider them a DIY loft conversion. It creates ample headroom and floor space by vertical projections from the roof slope.
- Velux Loft Conversion: In this, there are skylight windows without making any changes to the roof construction. This is pretty economical for people who wish to cut down on the cost of a loft conversion.
- Mansard Loft Conversion: These require extensive changes to the roof to create maximum space. If you live in a city area, this will be ideal for you, but it also requires a lot of building permissions.
If you select the wrong loft conversion type, you’ll have to spend a lot of money and time redoing the work. So, be clear and talk to the builder or contractor to know which loft conversion options are available for you.
3. Not Hiring the Right Professionals
When you start searching for professionals to help you with loft conversions, you’ll find many companies. However, a major loft conversion mistake is not talking to an architect before starting the work.
For small-sized conversions, you might not need an architect, but if you want a complex loft conversion, call an architect and let them inspect the area. They will help you develop the ideas into a more practical solution and will also be able to give you the right quotes.
You might ask yourself, “Can you do a loft conversion yourself?”. While the answer may be yes, it’s still better to talk to structural engineers and professionals first.
When you’re looking for professionals, check their credentials before hiring them. Look at customer reviews, their past projects, and how much they charge for each type of loft conversion.
4. Not Insulating the Loft
If you live in a cold climate, you must consider insulating the loft to keep it warm and comfortable throughout the year. By preventing heat escape, you’ll also reduce energy bills. Some common loft insulations available are:
- Batt or Blanket Loft Insulation: This is a flexible, pre-fabricated insulation type in the form of rolls or batts. These batts or blankets are typically made of fibreglass, mineral wood, or natural fibres.
- Loose-Filled Loft Insulation: Loose-filled loft insulation is made of a material that has been blown or poured into spaces within the loft, such as in the ceilings or walls. This insulation is characterised by its fluffy, light, and loose consistency.
- Sheet Loft Insulation: In this, rigid boards are placed between the roof rafters or joists to insulate the loft. The boards are made of polystyrene or phenolic foam and are tightly placed to create a thermal barrier.
However, not all types of insulation can be installed in any loft conversion. There’s a minimum thickness you have to maintain to comply with your local building regulations, so be sure to check with your builder first.
5. Not Knowing the Budget
Before starting any DIY loft conversions, you have to know your budget. Not having a fixed budget beforehand can lead to overspending.
You’ll have to take into account different things, such as where and how to insulate the loft, where to put stairs in a loft conversion, and how much space to consider. The average loft conversion will depend on the size and type of extension you choose.
For example, a Velux loft conversion will cost anywhere between £22,500 and £30,000 in the UK.
If you wish to look at prices in your local builder community, contact a few loft conversion experts. Also, keep in mind that high prices might not always lead to good-quality services. Read the customer reviews and ratings first, and then discuss prices.
6. Not Communicating with Your Neighbours
No matter where you live, doing a loft conversion without informing your neighbours first is a major loft conversion mistake.
If you forget to tell them you’re starting with a project as major as a loft conversion, they’ll be upset with the noise and dust. In rare cases, an angry neighbour might also complain to the local authorities and get your conversion stopped altogether.
Communicating with your neighbours is especially important if you live in a semi-detached or terraced house.
Keep your neighbours in the loop about what kind of conversion you’ll be having and how long it will take. This will lead to fewer doubts and frustration. If you share a common wall, you might also have to sign an agreement first.
7. Not Having the Right Lighting and Ventilation
This might sound quite obvious, but a lot of homeowners end up converting their loft and forget to install the right lights or windows.
The best thing to do is to make sure there’s natural light and ventilation through the windows, but if that’s not possible, you should add a lamp or two.
Both dormer and Mansard loft conversions allow natural light and air to seep indoors, but even if you have a different type of loft conversion, you can arrange for artificial lights and airflows.
Since lofts can be especially stuffy or dusty, make sure the area is thoroughly cleaned before you set it up for use.
Conclusion
These are some of the major loft conversion mistakes that you need to steer clear of before starting the project. To ease up the work you can contact Loft Conversion Architects in North London.
However, if you’re looking for architects, engineers, and interior designers but are confused about whom to consult, contact us at Domenech Design. Our team has every professional you’ll need to make your loft conversion a complete success!
