Traditional/Eaves Loft Conversion
What is a traditional or eaves loft conversions?
This is a loft conversion which is completed within the existing pitched roof space. With this type of conversion we install a permanent staircase to the room, ensuring this is done with building regulations, including fire doors. The existing roof and floor is strengthened and Velux windows are installed into the roof. This loft is then insulated to the correct levels, and we then turn that old dusty space into a stunning, fully functional living space, complete with heating, electrics. If the size permits, then we can also install luxury bathroom facilities if wanted.
This type of loft or attic conversion can also have extruding components as well, such as dormers & mansards or can be a hip to gable conversion, giving you even more space.
Can I convert within my existing loft?
There are several factors involved to answer this, those being:
- Do you have enough head height within the loft space?
- What is the pitch of the roof, i.e. after a completed version, how much space will you move around in without having to duck down?
- How much living space do you need on completion for use, i.e. what do you want to use the space for?
- Where can the stairs be placed and will this impact the usable living space in the floor below?
If you have enough head height (minimum 2.3m at the pitch of the roof), and there is sufficient usable floor space for what you’ll need, then yes you can convert your loft no problem. On the other hand, if you say no to any of the above questions, then it’s far from game over, there are a lot of alternative ways forward. Read on to find out just some of the options you have open to you.
What are the advantages of converting the loft within the existing roof space?
The first advantage is the overall cost of converting the loft. Due to no major roof restructuring work needing to be being carried out, this will reduce the overall labour and material costs of the conversion. Whilst this reduction isn’t huge, because the bulk of the costs is taken up with the core strengthening and insulation work need to the roof and floor. This must done regardless of what type of loft conversion you have.
The second advantage, is it doesn’t need planning permission, so long as you don’t live within a conservation area. Whilst this is a plus, a rear dormer doesn’t need planning permission either if it falls within a set of defined parameters.
The next advantage is the time for the conversion to be completed. As less work is needed overall based on a standard loft conversion, this keeps the disruption to your home to a minimum. That said, adding a dormer doesn’t add a huge amount of additional time to a loft conversion project, so something you should seriously consider.
Why would I consider a dormer loft conversion instead?
We will never sell you something you don’t need, as a family run business, that’s not how we work. However, there are many reasons you might want to consider having one or more dormers as part of your loft conversion. Here are just a few reason you might want to consider having a dormer added to your roof space:
1) You get a larger percentage increase in usable floor space. This in turn increased the amount of wall space for wardrobe, and your favourite art pieces.
2) You might be surprised at how little extra it is to have a dormer. You have already covered the costs of the strengthening, base insulation, staircase and more, so a dormer isn’t a big jump.
3) With all that extra floor space, you’ll also increase the resale value of your home. Estate agents say a full loft conversion done well can add up to 25% on your home value. To find out more about how a loft conversion can add value to your home, read our guide to Adding Value with a loft conversion.
Want to know more about dormer loft conversion, then read more about dormer loft conversions here.
Want help or advice about your loft, and what can be done?
Contact TVM Lofts today for your free survey and quotation. We’ll sit down with you and discuss your needs and give you ideas for what you can do with your loft. Have you been told you can’t convert your existing loft before? Don’t worry, this might not be the final answer. Many loft conversion companies do not have the knowledge, experience or the right team to convert many loft. We can convert almost any attic, and have successfully done so where many have said “It Can’t Be Done”.
