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Types of Loft Conversions
Velux (Rooflight) Loft Conversion
A Velux type loft conversion works very well for lofts where there is a good amount of headroom or if there are constraints on planning, for example if you live in a conservation area. Velux windows are installed to fit flush with the line of the roof and leave the existing roof structure untouched. As they do not require extensive alterations to the roof this option helps keep the cost of the conversion down. As the loft is not extended beyond the original roof line planning permission is not normally required (you should still check with your local planning department before proceeding with any works). This type of conversion is generally very cost effective and does not normally need planning permission.
Dormer Loft Conversion
A dormer is an extension to the existing roof, allowing for additional floor space and headroom within the loft conversion. Dormers protrude from the roof slope, normally at the rear of the property and can be built in a variety of styles. Internally, a dormer will have a horizontal ceiling and vertical walls compared to the normal diagonal sides of a conversion. In lofts that have limited space or headroom a dormer will provide additional space that can make a conversion feasible.
Hip to Gable Loft Conversion
A hip to gable conversion involves making fairly major changes to the roof. The gable wall is built up to the ridge line and a new section of roof is built to fill in the gap. As a general rule, houses with hip roofs tend to not have enough internal volume for a conversion to be practical so a hip to gable conversion is the best solution.
Mansard Loft Conversion
A Mansard roof has two slopes, the lower slope is close to vertical at 72 degrees and the top section of the roof is almost horizontal. Mansards are commonly built by raising the party/gable walls either side of your house to make the profile for the mansard and then creating the timber frame. A Mansard roof has the advantage of maximizing the available space within your loft.
L-Shaped Loft Conversion
The L-shaped dormer loft conversion is only applicable to properties of a certain structure. Typically, Victorian houses are good for L-shaped loft conversions, with the extension at the rear, as well as some corner terraced houses. These structures, without a doubt, offer the greatest amount of space and can often be used to create separate rooms.