With an existing property there are two main ways to increase the amount of living space available, either increase the overall footprint of the building via an extension, or choose to go upwards and convert the loft space. With an extension, even though it will massively alter the property, there is a lot of building work required, you are removing garden space from the property which may already be scares and the work can be incredibly expensive, which is why a loft conversion can be a very suitable project to undertake.
A loft conversion can has many important aspects which need to be thought of however and these include:
Is your roof suitable?
A roof of an existing property may be suitable as it already is to accommodate a loft conversion, or it may need to be altered in order to accommodate the extra living space. This may involve the addition of pitched windows (Velux’s) and erection of a flat roof or pitched dormer or even a full hip-gable redesign of your building which should create the extra space.
How do I comply with building regulations?
Loft conversions, like other elements of building work, have a set of building regulations associated which need to be adhered to in order for them to be classed as a habitable dwelling. The main regulations are in relation to:
• How much insulation do I need to achieve a desired R value
• What alterations do I need to make to create enough ventilation?
• Have my joist and supports been calculated by a structural engineer?
• Does my staircase adhere to building regulations?
• Do I need to have fire doors throughout the property?
• Do I need smoke alarms throughout the property?
How do I reach the newly created floor?
With loft conversion, for the new living space to be classed as a full bedroom, or multiple bedrooms/living spaces/utilities the space required a full staircase as opposed to a loft ladder. This loft staircase should more between the floors in a space that wasn’t originally intended to house a staircase and adhere to all associated regulations for staircases.
This staircase should also, where possible, tie in with any existing staircases if there are going to operate in the same stairwell. This includes handrail running between the two staircases, headroom on the existing staircase not being impeded as well as the styles of the staircase being the same. In some circumstances with older properties this includes specially made items designs to replicate the original.
If you are either a builder/joiner who is looking to start a loft conversion or you are looking at converting your own property, one of the best things you can do is employ a professional who understands staircases and can design and manufacture something to suit the space. If that’s true contact us by either emailing us at info@ehjoinery.com, phone us on 0151 933 3191 or why not come down to our showroom where we can talk you though our designs and process.
