A loft conversion is an excellent way for homeowners to create extra space for storage or an additional room. It’s cost-effective, and most importantly it doesn’t require planning permission. And even if you plan to do your conversion during winter, the building process will not be affected by the weather. But if you are thinking of creating some additional space in your house, it’s essential that you understand the pros and cons of a loft conversion. Why? A conversion is not suited for everyone’s home, and there are some factors you need to take into consideration before you get the builders in to proceed with the work.
The Benefits
Extra Room and Space
If you have a small property, you could convert your loft into a bedroom, a bathroom or even a children’s playroom, without really considering a traditional home extension. Every one of us loves extra space, and loft conversion is the perfect answer.
It is Cost Effective
Home extensions are pricey because they involve major structural work. But, converting your loft is a bit cheaper per square meter than an extension. Of course, different types of loft conversions cost differently. But if let’s say you are to do a dormer loft conversion, it’ll take you between £30000-£40000 which compared to extending your home, is much cheaper.
Adds Value to Your Home
Houses are the only assets whose value decreases with time. The good news, however, is that all hope is not lost. If you plan on selling your house in the future, then a loft conversion is ideal for you. Experts say that converting your loft increases the value of your home up to 20%. So you’ll not only be expanding your living space for the time being but also planning for the near future.
You’ll Still Keep the Outside Space
A traditional conversion means that you have to sacrifice some outside space such as taking a chunk of the garden, or a part of the garage depending on where the extension is going to be, either, at the front or the back of the house. But with a loft conversion, you are only building upwards as opposed to outwards which means, you can continue enjoying the space you have outside.
You won’t Overshadow Other Properties
Nobody likes to feel that they are watched or sacrifice the natural light to prevent encroaching on their neighbor’s privacy. One of the drawbacks of traditional extensions is that they have strict guidelines to where you can and can’t place your windows. However, that is not the case with loft conversions. When it comes to certain types of conversion such as rooflight, you have more freedom to choose the ideal location to place your windows.
The Drawbacks
Might not be Suitable for Living in
Let’s say that you are planning to use the converted room for sleeping, you have to remember that loft conversions have a sloping ceiling which means if the ceiling is less than 2 meters, it can be quite challenging to fit the furniture in let alone walking around in your loft.
Not Fit for All Homes
Some houses cannot be converted such as those with a low pitched roof. In such a case the roof structure has to be remodeled which can add up the expenses.
Strict Regulations
Most loft conversions can be carried out as long as the local authority has approved. But in some cases, you’ll need planning permission to proceed with the conversion. Generally, a loft conversion requires homeowners to add the extra space into their homes without changing the shape or structure of the roof. And in some cases, this might be a limitation.
Conclusion
A loft conversion will be useful to individuals who need extra space. Plus, they’ll add value to your property. If you are thinking of converting your loft, it’s best that you first talk to an architect before undergoing any work.