Is my loft suitable for conversion
ď śThere are many factors you will need to take into account when you are thinking of having your loft converted. It can be a difficult decision to make and you need to weigh up all the factors to see if you can do it. ď śHowever, one of the first questions you will need to ask yourself is if your loft is suitable to convert.
ď śThe aspects that will determine the suitability of your loft for conversion are the space, head height, obstacles, structure and pitch of your roof. ď śIt is important to consider all of these, as you may need to make additional calculations when determining costs.
Firstly you need to measure the head height. In order to take this measurement you need to measure from the bottom of the ridge timber to the ceiling joist. Whilst you should have a height of 2.2m minimum, there are solutions if the head height isn’t that great. However, these can be expensive and can require the services of a professional.
ď śThe first fix would be to raise the roof. This involves removing all or part of the roof, and then building it up to give the perfect height. This is usually possible, but its not cheap and you will also need planning permission. ď śBear in mind this will involve major upheaval for you and your family if the decision is made to go ahead.
ď śThe other option you have is a bit complicated. It basically involves lowering the ceiling in the room below. Typically, this is only good in properties with high ceilings and will also cause much mess. ď śAgain, another thing to take into careful consideration before beginning.
ď śThe next thing you may need to look at is the angle of the roof, also referred to as the pitch angle. The higher the pitch, the bigger the space in general. ď śIf you have plenty of head height, then using dormers can create some great space for you.
ď śNow we start to look at the type of structure. Older houses tend to have rafters and ceiling joists in a framed setup. This is the most structurally sound for loft conversions and this should be a relatively simple job if this is done. ď śMore modern properties generally have cheaper timbers but the diagonal braced timbers can make them structurally sound.
ď śThis allows a roof to be put up pretty quickly, however it can make the load bearing of the roof a little compromised, so before your conversion is done it may be necessary to strengthen the roof by using steel beams. ď śAgain this will cost more than the traditional type and may take longer.
ď śWhen it comes to insulation, you will need to take advice from a Building Control inspector. There are two main ways in which the roof structure will likely be insulated; one is by using a cold roof method. ď śThis is a fairly popular way of doing it and involves filling the space between the rafters with foam insulation.
ď śLeaving space between this and the felt will ensure the ventilation is adequate. The other way is called warm roof and involves foam over the rafters with capping and tiles.
ď śFinally, you need to consider where your staircase will go. The best place for it would be in line with the ridge of the roof. You will get the most available space and this will make best use of the height. ď śIn actuality, the position of the staircase will depend on the layout of the lower floor, so you may have to consult your builder when making plans.
All in all, these are the most important factors to consider when you are thinking about loft conversion. Once you have the basics sorted, you can start planning your new space! Read more about TeleBeam : http://www.loftcreations.co.uk/