In this blog, we’ll look at what a loft conversion entails, the various types of loft conversions,
the pros and cons of this type of conversion in general, and the average costs involved. Let’s
dive in!
The Pros and Cons of Loft Conversions
Whether or not it’s a good idea to have your loft converted will depend on a host of factors such as your preferences and how you feel about the potential costs, advantages, and drawbacks of having your loft converted.
Pros:
Here are some of the key upsides of converting a loft space:
- Loft conversions can be a more affordable way of introducing more living space than adding an extension
- By opting for a loft conversion, you won’t be using up outdoor space that you may wish to use for other purposes
- A loft conversion can increase the value of your home
- Loft conversions often do not require planning permission *
- There are many types of loft conversions to choose from
*You’ll still want to verify this. If in any doubt, consult with the local council or/and a professional loft conversion company.
Cons:
Here are several disadvantages of a loft conversion:
- Loft conversions won’t work in every property
- Loss of current storage space in exchange for added living space
- The room needed to introduce a staircase to the loft conversion can remove valuable space on the level of your home the stairs start from
- Loft conversions are often less spacious than extensions
Is a Loft Conversion Right for You?
As you can see, there are various pros and cons to having a loft converted. Ultimately, whether it’s right for you will depend on your preferences, needs, budget and how you feel about the pros and cons listed above (any other applicable advantages/disadvantages to your specific loft conversion proposal).
If you can’t make up your mind, it’s best to consult with a professional, whether it be an architect, designer or loft conversion company to help you make a decision and ideally one that is informed based on the specific loft conversion idea for your property.
Types of Loft Conversions (incl. Costs)
As for the cost of a loft conversion, this will vary depending on the type you opt for. However, broadly speaking, the overall average price range (including supply only and labour costs) is £20,000 to £60,000.
Let’s now take a look at some of the most popular types and the different loft conversion costs that can apply.
Dormer Loft Conversion
One of, if not the most popular type of loft conversion is that of a dormer loft conversion. With an average cost range of around £30,000 to £60,000, dormer loft conversions fall in the mid-range among options.
While dormer loft conversions are among the best options for maximising usable space, the highly angular nature of their design can make them not as easy on the eye from the outside of your property as other options.
Hip-to-Gable Loft Conversion
Hip-to-gable loft conversions like their dormer counterparts can create plenty of additional living space. However, they are only suited to detached or semi-detached properties with sloping roofs due to their design.
The average price range of hip-to-gable loft conversion is approximately £40,000 to £65,000 making this option relatively expensive.
Mansard Loft Conversion
This type of conversion practically creates a flat roof by changing the entire design. While a Mansard loft conversion can add the most space of any type of loft conversion, the average cost ranges from £45,000 to £70,000.
Velux Loft Conversion
Lastly, we have Velux loft conversions. With an average cost range of just £15,000 to £20,000, this is the most budget-friendly option, assuming your property is suited to this design. You need plenty of loft space for a Velux loft conversion to be possible.
Other advantages of Velux loft conversions include that they are relatively easy and fast for a company to install.
Hiring the Right Professionals
When it comes to having a loft converted, it’s important to find the right professionals for the job. Firstly, you’ll want to an architect or designer to help you finalise the design or come up with it entirely (depending on how much you want to be involved in the design process).
Once that’s done, it’s time to hire a professional loft conversion service. Whether it be finding the right architect/designer or loft conversion service, in each case, you should secure three or more quotes.
This way you can compare the pricing, levels of experience and any online reviews or ratings that may be available of each option before deciding who is best for the job.
Sources:
https://visionarylofts.co.uk/uncategorized/should-you-convert-your-loft/
https://ashbrookroofing.co.uk/blogs/general-guides/pros-and-cons-of-a-loft-conversion
https://www.johnwebsterarchitecture.co.uk/2023/09/26/are-loft-conversions-worth-the-money/
https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/cost-guides/loft-conversion-cost/
https://www.houseup.co.uk/news/how-much-does-loft-conversion-cost
