Do you see your loft as nothing more than extra storage space or a dank and dusty domestic aberration that is best left alone? If so, you may be missing out on your home’s hidden potential. A loft space can be utilized in a number of ways which will make your home both more comfortable and more profitable. And while you may be put off by the costs and disruption that the loft conversion process inevitably brings, the potential benefits mean it is a prospect well worth considering.
Why should I invest in a loft conversion?
Most people choose to convert their loft because it gives the home extra living space while dramatically increasing its value. Recent estimates by Nationwide have suggested that a loft conversion could add as much as 20% to the potential asking price of your home. And if you are in need of more space, it is a much cheaper alternative than moving house, which carries substantial fees and entails a lot of unnecessary hassle.
In addition, using your loft as a room brings a host of unique benefits. It may open up a great view of the local area or flood your house with natural light. It can also provide a space in the home away from general domestic noise and provide greater privacy.
How can I use my loft conversion?
The loft is a versatile space that can be adapted to suit many different situations. Maybe you need to upgrade from a three-bedroom to a four-bedroom home to meet the requirements of a growing family. Maybe you work from home and would benefit from an office space separated from the main house. Or maybe you want a new room to dedicate to a favorite hobby.
A loft conversion might also be useful if you’re planning to open your home to lodgers. A large bedroom with its own en-suite functions as a private apartment. This option would mean that you’ve transformed that depressing, underutilized space into a source of income that offsets the initial development costs in no time at all.
What planning issues do I need to consider?
Loft conversions do not normally require planning permission except in cases where you need to extend or alter the roof. There are, however, specific building regulations that you must consider. For example, in the UK, the space must be at least 2.3 meters high and must also have a fixed staircase rather than a temporary folding ladder. It is also important to keep the purpose of the room in mind when planning the work. If you intend to install a bathroom, it’s important to check that water pressure will be adequate if your shower is to operate correctly.
Considering all these issues, it is often best to have your loft converted by a professional contractor. They will be able to assess the current state and future potential of your loft while meeting all of the important rules and regulations. They will also be best placed to implement effective airflow management as well as the other technical aspects of the conversion process.