Loft conversions are an excellent way to add much-needed space to your existing home. While most homes are suitable for loft conversions, some types of homes may be better suited to some styles than others. Keep reading to learn more about which types of houses can have loft conversions.

What are the types of houses that can have loft conversions?  

Loft conversions are one of the top ways to add space to your existing home. By going up, instead of out, loft conversions give additional floor space without compromising any outdoor space. If you’re like many homeowners considering a loft conversion, it’s important to first understand your space. From new builds to terraced homes, loft conversions are a great way to increase the value of your home. But each home type has its own considerations when it comes to loft conversions. Today we’ll explore each house type to discover which loft conversions styles suit each type of home. 

New Build Houses

Like many home types, most new build homes are suitable for loft conversions. It’s important to understand your space and work within its limits. The first consideration when determining whether your new build home is suitable for a loft conversion is the potential ceiling height. The minimum ceiling height should be at least 2.3 meters high. Next, you’ll want to examine the roof supports of your home. Many new build homes use “W” shaped trusses. While this gives additional integrity to the roof, it may restrict the available space for your loft conversion. Consult with your loft conversion specialist as they may be able to provide suggestions or adjustments to utilise as much of your space as possible.

Like all building works, it’s important to review and adhere to all building regulations. Depending on your area and the style of loft conversion, your project may require planning permission. If your property falls under permitted development, you will be required to get permission from the  Freeholder. Many new build estates may have restricted covenants. Make sure to review these to determine whether they prevent certain works from being undertaken.

Detached Houses

Detached homes are ideal properties for loft conversions. With no party wall agreements, you don’t need to worry about getting permission from neighbours. Many detached homes are able to boast conversions that span the entire footprint of the building, depending on your roof’s structure. The options are limitless, with the potential for bright, open-planned spaces or even a roof terrace or balcony.

There are considerations to keep in mind with every loft conversion. For detached houses, like many others, you’ll need to be sure there is sufficient headroom to accommodate your loft space and clear space for a staircase to connect to the lower level of your existing home. Many styles of loft conversion are within permitted development and may not require planning permission. Make sure to check with your local authority as this may vary depending on your location and ensure you adhere to all pertinent building regulations. It is important to note that listed buildings or those within a heritage conservation area may pose more difficulty and additional permission to carry out. Consult with your loft conversion specialist for more details.

Semi-Detached Houses

Semi-detached homes provide an ideal canvas for creating additional rooms. They provide a straightforward space that is easy to convert. With many styles of loft conversion well-suited for these properties, from dormer to Velux skylight conversion, loft conversions are a great way to add value and space to your semi-detached house. Speak with the loft conversion experts to design the best conversion for your loft.

Hip to Gable 

Hip to gable loft conversions are one of the most commonly found loft conversions on semi-detached homes. Boasting a large volume of usable space and aesthetic appeal, they are an ideal choice for adding an additional bedroom or ensuite to your home. The conversion is created by extending the roof of your home along the sloping side, known in the trade as the hip, and converting it into a vertical or upright wall, known as the gable. To finish, the roof is then extended to fill the gap. 

Dormer

Dormer loft conversions are suitable for any semi-detached home with a sloping roof.  A budget-friendly option, dormer conversions increase floor space as well as headroom within the loft. By utilising the existing slope of the roof, dormer conversions offer a minimally invasive option. Depending on your space, construction could be completed in a matter of weeks. If you’re on the hunt for a cost-effective way of maximising space, dormer loft conversions are a great option for your semi-detached home.

Velux Skylight

Velux or skylight loft conversions are the most straightforward and most budget-friendly loft conversions for your semi-detached home. Providing you have adequate space and headroom in your loft space, your conversion is complete by just adding skylights, insulation, a proper floor, and a staircase. Most areas do not require planning permission, giving you one less thing to worry about. If budget and ease are your top considerations, Velux skylight loft conversions can be completed in as little as a few weeks and offer a more affordable option. 

Terraced Houses 

Terraced homes make up approximately 30% of all homes in the UK. Attached to other properties on either side by a party wall, terraced homes are most often found in densely populated, urban areas, but can also be found in areas where more housing is needed.

Terraced houses pose difficulties when trying to extend out because they are joined on either side. Loft conversions offer a more terraced-friendly option as they extend up, instead of out, retaining valuable garden space while adding additional rooms. A loft conversion can add extra bedrooms, a cosy office, or even a home gym to your terraced home. Like all loft conversions, it’s best to consult with your loft conversion specialist to design that works best for your home and budget.

Victorian Houses 

Victorian houses are part of the architectural heritage of the UK. Inspired by everything from the neo-gothic to the arts & crafts movement. Victorian homes reflect the quickly modernising world in which they were designed. Many Victorian properties joined in long terraces as suburban populations swelled. The loft space in most of these properties was never used for living space and are perfectly suited for a modern loft conversion. By using the existing roof of your Victorian home, you can open up your loft space, adding floor space and value to your home.

Check with your loft conversion specialist to see whether a  dormer, mansard loft conversion or straightforward Velux loft conversion is best for your space.