How to choose which type of loft conversion to have?

Main Types of Loft Conversions

Roof Light: This usually involves adding roof lights to your loft and is the easiest and cheapest type of loft conversion to opt for, with no major changes made to the shape or pitch of the roof. 

Dormer: Dormer conversions involve building an extension that protrudes from the roof. If it is located at the back, you will not usually need to apply for planning permission. This is the most popular loft conversion type and can be fitted on any property with a sloping roof. 

Hip-to-Gable: Hip-to-gable conversions lengthen the slope of the roof at the side or hip or your property. The slope creates a vertical wall to add more indoor loft space. It is only suitable for detached or semi-detached homes as a free sloping roof at the side of the property is required. 

Mansard: Mansard loft conversions run along the entire length of the roof. It makes changes to the slope angle of the roof, leaving it almost vertical. They are the most expensive type of loft conversion available but add a significant amount of additional space in the roof. Any property is suitable for this type of loft conversion, including terraced, semi-detached, and detached homes. 

Your Budget

How much you want to spend will likely be a main deciding factor when it comes to the type of loft conversion that you choose. Some loft conversion types such as hip-to-gable or mansard loft conversions will cost more than others. Adding roof lights to the loft without building it out is one of the cheapest loft conversion options to consider. 

How You’re Using the Space

How you want to use the room that you’re going to get once the loft conversion room has been completed will also dictate the type of loft conversion that you opt for. If you want a small space for storage or to use as a home office area, for example, a simple Velux light loft conversion or adding a dormer to the back of the loft might work well for you. On the other hand, a different type of loft conversion might be necessary if you want to turn the loft into a larger, useable area such as a double bedroom with a bathroom or a family room. 

Applying for Planning Permission 

Bear in mind that some types of loft conversion will require you to apply for planning permission. In general, as long as you do not live in a listed building or conservation area, you will not be required to apply for planning permission if the loft conversion does not alter the appearance of your property from the front. However, other more extensive conversion types such as hip-to-gable conversions or adding a dormer to an area that would change the appearance of the house from the street such as the front or side will usually require planning permission. 

Choosing which loft conversion type is right for you isn’t always easy, with lots of factors to take into account. Our friendly advisors are always happy to help – get in touch today with any questions that you might have.