If you are looking for an exciting way to add value to your home in Essex, you might want to think about adding a dormer loft conversion to your property.
As well as providing additional space and adding value, a dormer loft conversion is a way to completely transform an attic space that barely has any headroom at all.
With the conversion, this attic space can become a new, usable area of your home.
But, before you jump at this opportunity there are a few things that you need to know about a dormer loft conversion.
What Is A Dormer Loft Conversion?
A dormer loft conversion is an extension of your roof. Structurally, the extension juts out of the roof at a vertical angle from a sloped roof.
The dormer loft extension provides you with a way to transform a typical loft into a full room, complete with natural lighting from dormer windows.
There are a number of different types of dormer loft extensions for you to choose from. These include:
- A flat roof dormer
- A shed dormer
- Gable fronted dormer
- Hipped roof dormer
What Type Of Dormer Loft Is Best For My Property?
When deciding on the right dormer loft for your property in Essex, it is best to take each option in turn.
If you are looking for the simplest and cheapest option, a flat roof dormer will be the right choice for you. As well as being the cheapest this also provides the maximum amount of space.
If you have a gable roof, you should perhaps opt for a shed dormer. This extension has a roof that is sloped downwards and will require different sheeting compared to the main roof.
Are you searching for the most stylish extensions? A gable fronted dormer is very attractive as it is built up to the existing ridge of the roof.
A hipped roof dormer also has a pleasing aesthetic and structurally has three sloping planes that meet at the ridge of the dormer.
What Are The Benefits Of A Dormer Loft Conversion?
There are a number of benefits of a dormer loft conversion. As well as providing additional floor space it also improves headroom.
If you choose a flat roof dormer, you will also get flat ceilings and walls that are straight.
Providing both ventilation and light into this area of your home, a dormer loft conversion will allow you to use this space in your home however you wish whether as a guest room or a storage space that you can actually walk around in.
It will certainly lead to an increased property value as well, essentially, adding a second floor onto your home.
The other brilliant advantage of this type of conversion is that it will fit a number of different types of UK property from a Victorian terrace house to a modern detached build.
As well as this, it’s possible to complete this type of conversion on a reasonably tight budget. Or, spend more if you would prefer a more aesthetically pleasing option like the hipped roof dormer.
Do I Need Planning Permission For A Dormer Loft Conversion?
In most cases, a homeowner will not need planning permission to complete a dormer loft conversion if the home in question is a permitted development.
That said there are a number of situations where planning permission will be required.
For instance, you might be using materials that do not match the rest of the home construction. Or, the conversion could have windows that overlook a neighbour’s property.
Alternatively, you might discover that you have bats in your loft. Since they are a protected species, planning permission will be required before you can complete any work like this.
If you have any doubts about whether planning permission is necessary, it’s best to gain an LDC from a local authority.
The Lawful Development Certificate provides written evidence that your conversion is lawful and offers you protection if enquiries are made at a later date.
How Do I Get Started?
If you want to get started with your dormer loft conversion in Essex, you first need to decide which type of conversion you need.
If you’re unsure of how to proceed, an expert building contractor can help.
They’ll provide you with advice on the conversion you want and work with you to bring it to fruition.
At Castle Point Construction, we provide a range of different services to our customers including dormer loft conversions.
Contact us today and let’s get started unlocking the hidden potential of your home.