How Many Types Of Loft Conversion Are There? 

A loft conversion is a great way to add value and extra functionality to your home, but which type should you choose? How many types are there to choose from? 

Various loft conversion types exist, which means that there is likely to be a really great loft conversion option out there for you. The first step is to understand them a little bit more, including a closer look at the different types that exist: 

Different Types Of Loft Conversions

Loft conversions can often be combined in their types, but most fall under the following terms: 

Skylight/ Velux Conversion

The skylight/ velux conversion is an incredibly simple and cost effective type of conversion. It is where the roof of your home is not altered at all, and instead, internal alterations are made to reinforce the flooring and add insulation (amongst other things), and beautiful skylight windows are added to flood the space with natural light. 

Pros:

• Often no planning permission is required
• Can be the most affordable loft conversion option
• Creates extra space for an affordable investment price
• Quick 
• Minimal disruption

Cons: 

• The space created can be restrictive, depending on your roof shape
• You likely won’t get the space you need to add something like an ensuite

Mansard Loft Conversion

• Can be L-shaped, double or combined with a dormer 

A mansard loft conversion is the most substantial type of loft conversion that you can have. It usually gets placed onto the back of a home, and has a flat roof and almost vertical wall. It is suitable for most types of homes and can often even be completed on listed buildings and conservation areas, as long as local regulations are followed. 

Pros:

• Suitable for most home types
• Creates a big, open, beautiful open space 
• Lots of natural light

Cons:

• Structural engineer is needed to check your property is able to support this conversion type
• You are likely to need planning permission for this kind of extension 

Dormer

• Can be hip roof, gable fronted, doghouse, shed, flat roof or mansard

A roof dormer is a loft conversion that adds vertical walls and windows, and a flat roof, onto the existing roofline. It looks a little bit like a box protruding from the length of the roof and is suitable for most house types. It significantly increases the amount of floor space available, and adds a lot of natural light to the new conversion. 

Pros: 

• You often don’t need planning permission
• Creates tons of headroom for comfortable use of the space
• Can suit all kinds of homes aesthetically
• Lots of options to add plenty of natural light to the space 

Cons: 

• Aesthetically, some people don’t particularly like how they look

L-Shaped/ Dog Leg

• Can be made of two dormers or as a mansard 

An L shaped loft conversion is suitable for homes with an extension to the rear and consists of two dormers joined together, forming the L shape. It is an extremely roomy and extensive conversion that could give you enough space to create multiple rooms, a living space and more. 

Pros: 

• Exceptional amount of space created that you can use for any purpose you like
• Particularly handy as a space to rent out as a fully equipped apartment either nightly, or long-term

Cons:

• Only able to be added to properties with a rear extension

Hip To Gable 

A hip to gable conversion is where the ridge of your roof is extended up to a gable, which has been added by the construction company. It converts your roof into what looks like an A frame. Because of the work involved this kind of construction has to be designed by a qualified structural engineer, and carried out by a professional construction company. 

You’ll also need to get the correct permissions for this kind of conversion to be done so that the structure is legally erected. 

Pros: 

• Creates tons of extra space to use as you like – home office, bedroom, ensuite – the choice is yours
• Particularly well suited to semi-detached, detached homes and bungalows

Cons:

• If you have any previous property extensions where you used permitted development, planning permission will likely need to be gained for this type of construction
• Limited roof space may rule out this type of conversion as an option

All of the above types of loft conversion can sometimes have different names, are not always suitable for every type of house, and can have different aesthetics depending on the design you choose. 

Benefits Of A Loft Conversion

Regardless of the loft conversion type that you choose, there are some benefits that generally apply, overall, to this kind of home improvement including: 

• No need to use garden space 
• Can be done without planning permission
• Can create space to use as a bedroom, home office, living space and more
• Can be much quicker than a house extension
• Can be more affordable than a house extension
• Often less disruptive than a house extension
• Creates opportunity to enjoy views around the home
• Energy efficient
• Lots of choices
• Value is usually added to a property when a loft conversion is added

Which Loft Conversion Type Is Right For You? 

Loft conversions are always beneficial to a property, but the right type does need to be selected so that your aesthetic and functional needs are met by the build. 

The most important thing to do is to consult a professional loft conversion company who will be able to talk you through all your options. They will also be able to help you with the design process, planning application processes and other areas of preparation that ensure you are having the perfect construction build for your needs. 

Why not get in touch with a trusted loft conversion company today to take that next step towards a stunning, extensive new space to use in your home. 

Featured Photo by Aaron Huber on Unsplash