Types Of Loft Conversions London

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Different Types of Loft Conversion

There are a range of different types of loft conversions. Depending on the type of property and existing loft configuration, different options are better suited to certain budgets. There are also certain types of conversion that are better suited to special requirements. It is also possible to choose a loft conversion that does not require any planning permission.

There are a few basic things to consider when thinking about a loft conversion. Minimum height requirements and staircase regulations are very important. Assuming the property has a suitable attic space and there is space for a staircase, then you can choose to maximise space with different structures. A Velux is a fairly straightforward loft conversion that works within the existing roof space. If you want to add additional space then a dormer conversion is a popular choice that works with many building types and can add considerable square footage to a small loft space.

You can find more information about all of the different types of loft conversion below. Clapham Construction is always happy to discuss your loft conversion and help you navigate the various considerations that go into a loft conversion. Talk to us for a free consultation and find out how to achieve your dream loft conversion.

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Skylight Conversion

A Skylight or ‘Velux’ loft conversion is one of the simplest conversion types to build. As the roof of the property is not altered  it is normally possible to avoid planning permission. A great way to increase space at lower cost.

Two Window Dormer

Often found on existing homes built 100 years ago and sometimes requested by the planning officers. This conversion provides a surprising amount of additional head room and can be a stylish way to add a loft conversion.

Dormer Conversion

This is one of the most popular types of loft conversion. It provides a large amount of additional space up to 60 Cubic metres and really good head height. It also gives additional design potential such as Juliet Balcony, floor to ceiling glass and roof lights.

Hip to Gable & Rear Dormer

As the title states, the side sloping roof has been raised , normally in brick, and allowed us the head height and structure to add a rear dormer.

Hip to Gable

This is a simple conversion as shown in the image as all we have done is change the side sloping roof and raised this side in brick, which turns a low roof, with low head height into a workable space for any combination of conversion.

L – Shaped Mansard

As with the L-Shape Dormer, the L-Shape Mansard will add a larger amount of space with multiple design options by using the roof of the rear addition. Planning permission is required for this type of work, but we can submit approval for Juliet Balconies and a terrace to really make this conversion special.

L-Shape Dormer

This type of loft conversion is built by joining two dormer builds together, utilising the rear addition. This results in a significantly larger space than other builds. This conversion gives options for more bedrooms in the new build, a terrace on the rear addition and spare rooms, studies or bathrooms.

Mansard Conversion

A mansard loft conversion alters the structure of a sloping roof to an angle of 72 degrees, given a unique shape as shown. Windows are fitted into the new roof almost like small window dormers. Like Dormers the Mansard conversion is usually erected to the rear of a property , but can be constructed as a front and rear mansard (double mansard) if permitted. This conversion provides a larger amount of space, effectively adding another floor to your home.

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Testimonials

Nicholas Carpenter
Nicholas Carpenter
12/04/2023
Clapham Construction have done a great job on our loft conversion and we are very pleased with how smoothly the project went, and the brilliant loft space that we now have. Paul - thank you especially for guiding us through all the stages before and during the build. Their workmen were hard working from start to finish, efficient, and obviously very skilled. They were also polite, helpful and really tidy. We had great communication by email with their office, and with Paul in person and on the WhatsApp group - thank you. Our family in USA are now looking forward to staying with us in comfort this summer and beyond!
Bianca Hamilton
Bianca Hamilton
16/03/2023
Paul, Dangis and the team are simply top notch. They did such a high-quality job on a tight timeframe and communicated so well throughout. They were a pleasure to work with, handled all elements of the build from start to finish and kept disruption as minimal as they could. Couldn’t recommend them more highly if I tried.
Mindy Lee
Mindy Lee
29/01/2023
Thank you Clapham Construction! Your team were friendly, efficient, and highly motivated. The project ran to schedule with effective overlapping of tasks to allow for minimum disruption. Paul kept us actively involved at each stage of the process, so we always knew what was happening when, which was really reassuring. If we ever had a question, he would talk it through with us in person and offer advice without any pressure or expectation. The work is completed to an excellent standard. All the construction workers where kind, considerate, friendly, polite and kept our house as clean and tidy as possible. This took so much of the stress out of living on site during the works with a young son. Even the neighbours commented on how polite and considerate the builders had been. We would highly recommend this team for anyone thinking of undertaking a loft conversion in the future.
Shayan Bokhari
Shayan Bokhari
29/12/2022
Paul, Dangis and their team were excellent given we had some obstacles with the council on design, they accommodated what we required. The work was very professional and communication was on point. We are very happy with our end result and any teething issues they resolved quickl. I would recommend the team to anyone. Thanks again for all your hard work.
Laila A
Laila A
29/12/2022
Really lovely team - all professional, friendly and was great to have Dangis and Paul popping in regularly and being on the ball with the project. Happy with our new loft, all work done to an excellence standard, any follow up questions or issues dealt with quickly. Would highly recommend. Thank you very much.
Dani Carter
Dani Carter
25/10/2022
Absolute professionals is the first thing that comes to mind when I think of Clapham Construction service. And there are two further things you need to know about them: they are brilliant at what they do and they are generous in spirit. Throughout our project Paul and Dangis answered our naive questions with warmth and care. They helped guide us at every turn, and almost certainly saved us money by making sure we considered all the options we had before making key decisions. But not just customer care, the building work is also top notch. The build itself was a well oiled process, coordinated with skill. I was initially worried about getting an anonymous loft company I'd never heard of in (after getting 8 different quotes from a variety of places including famous local ones) and being part of the 'box on the roof' brigade. Yet somehow, they have created build magic with some tweaks on 'a little bit of height' here, and 'a little configuration' there. We keep marvelling at the sturdiness and smoothness of the physical build even now, and the army of highly skilled teams they have were a pleasure to host in the house while we worked from home. And finally the most important bit - the money stuff- our Loft extension (including bathroom) was completed on time and more or less on budget. The additional costs were the unforseen - (yikes a victorian chimney needs dismantling!) and a few flourishes that we ourselves added to the mix - (can the door handles be gold?). Any additional build costs were communicated efficiently and immediately. Our experience of Clapham Construction is that they are patient, hugely knowledgable, and detail orientated with a wealth of incredible advice. Don't delay on getting them on your project!
Mikey Johns
Mikey Johns
22/09/2022
We spoke to a few companies to quote our dormer loft conversion but were immediately impressed speaking to Dangis & Paul and went with Clapham CS. We’re really happy with the end result which has given us some much needed extra space. Progress was quick, these guys are very experienced and know exactly what they’re doing. They’ll talk you through your plans and give you honest advice at key stages when you need to make a decision, very patient with us too! Would definitely recommend, they’ve done numerous houses in our neighbouring streets too, end results always look great.
Maria Luisa McKendry
Maria Luisa McKendry
18/09/2022
Highly recommend this company. As first time buyers and first time renovators we couldn't be happier with their service. Paul and Dangis are very professional and thorough, at no times does it feel like corners are cut. They are able to provide genuine advice and guidance while being accommodating ensuring a stress free process.
Stuart Williams
Stuart Williams
18/09/2022
Clapham Construction completed our kitchen extension for us. We’re really pleased with the results, and it has changed the whole place. The price was agreed upfront and there were no hidden extras. Good communication throughout the whole process on WhatsApp and Dan showed great building experience. They had the whole team from build, kitchen fitting through to finishing the garden off available in house so made it a lot easier. Thanks guys.
Tom Forman
Tom Forman
05/09/2022
We are delighted with our new loft conversion, Clapham Construction did a great job. They were highly professional, no hidden costs, and with friendly employees who treated the rest of the house with respect. We would not hesitate to recommend them.

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Loft Conversion Types - Faqs

What Are the Different Types of Loft Conversions?

There are four main types of loft conversions:

  • Dormer Loft Conversion: This is the most common type, involving an extension that protrudes from the slope of the roof.
  • Hip-to-Gable Loft Conversion: This extends the side roof area of the house, converting the ‘hipped’ side of the roof to a flat ‘gable’.
  • Mansard Loft Conversion: This involves changing the entire roof structure, usually at the rear of the property, to create a much larger space.
  • Velux Loft Conversion: This is the simplest type, involving the installation of Velux windows into the existing roofline, without altering the roof structure.

What Types of Loft Conversions Require Planning Permission?

Planning permission requirements can vary depending on the local council and specific circumstances, but here are some general guidelines for when planning permission may be required for different types of loft conversions in London:

Dormer Loft Conversion

  • Planning Permission Required: Usually not, unless the dormer is facing a highway or exceeds certain size limitations.

Hip-to-Gable Loft Conversion

  • Planning Permission Required: Generally not, but if your property is semi-detached or in a conservation area, you may need to apply.

Mansard Loft Conversion

  • Planning Permission Required: Almost always, as this involves significant structural changes to the roof.

Velux Loft Conversion

  • Planning Permission Required: Rarely, as long as the Velux windows do not protrude more than 150mm from the roof plane.

Additional Circumstances Requiring Planning Permission

  • If the property is listed or in a conservation area.
  • If the conversion increases the roof height or alters the shape significantly.
  • If you’re planning to include a balcony, veranda, or other raised platform.
  • If the converted space exceeds 50 cubic metres for detached and semi-detached houses, or 40 cubic metres for terraced houses.

How Much Do Different Types of Loft Conversions Cost?

ype of conversion, the location of your property, and the specific requirements of the project. Here are some general guidelines for the cost associated with different types of loft conversions:

Dormer Loft Conversion

  • Estimated Cost: Generally the most affordable option, but costs can still vary.

Hip-to-Gable Loft Conversion

  • Estimated Cost: Mid-range in terms of cost, but this can fluctuate depending on the complexity of the project.

Mansard Loft Conversion

  • Estimated Cost: Typically the most expensive due to the extensive structural changes required.

Velux Loft Conversion

  • Estimated Cost: Usually the least expensive as it involves fewer structural alterations, but costs can still vary.

It’s important to note that these are just rough estimates and the actual cost can differ significantly. Additional factors like the quality of materials, labour rates, and any required planning permissions can also impact the final cost

What Type of Loft Conversion Will Add the Most Value to My Property?

The value that a loft conversion adds to your property can depend on various factors such as the existing layout of your home, the local property market, and the quality of the conversion itself. However, here are some general insights into how different types of loft conversions can impact property value:

Dormer Loft Conversion

  • Value Addition: Good for adding both space and value, especially if it includes an extra bedroom and bathroom.

Hip-to-Gable Loft Conversion

  • Value Addition: Can add significant value if it transforms a cramped attic into a spacious, usable room, particularly in semi-detached or end-of-terrace homes.

Mansard Loft Conversion

  • Value Addition: Often adds the most value due to the substantial increase in living space, but also comes with higher costs.

Velux Loft Conversion

  • Value Addition: Adds the least value compared to other types, but still a good option if you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to gain extra space.

In London, where space is at a premium, any well-executed loft conversion can add considerable value to your property. Mansard conversions are often seen as the most lucrative, given the significant increase in usable space they offer. For tailored advice and to ensure you’re making the most informed decision, consider consulting with property experts like Clapham Construction, as they can provide valuable insights into what type of conversion will offer the best return on investment for your specific situation.

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