Roof Extensions: An Expert Guide

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Loft conversions are the most common form of home extension, where space is created by extending up rather than out, thus providing more usable living space without relocating. That is why loft conversion services are preferred by homeowners, as they create another room, be it a bedroom, bathroom, office, or living space, within the existing roof structure.

Here is the basic information you will need regarding roof extension: the most important factors to consider when planning for roof extension, the advantages and the disadvantages of the project, legal requirements that you have to adhere to, costs that you will incur when undertaking the project, and the steps that you must follow to have your roof extension project completed. Take a closer look at this article to learn all the essential things about roof extensions.

Types of Roof Extensions

There are two main types of roof extensions:

Rear Dormer Loft Conversions

The rear dormer extension can go right from the back of the original roof design of the house. This creates a compartment with a light wall in the form of a vertical window so that what would otherwise be a black and cramped space under the eaves is lit. Since dormer extensions provide additional volume, the amount of usable space and headroom are both significantly increased.

Roof Lift Loft Conversions

Roof lift loft conversions involve raising the roof to a higher level and making the walls go upwards to provide the inhabitants with more open space and elevated roof heights. Unlike other types of extensions, dormer windows are not constructed for a roof lift extension, relying on roof lights, skylights, or large gable end windows for lighting. Roof lifts demand more structure than volume yet give larger, variable room layouts.

There are several critical considerations before embarking on a roof extension project:

• Budget – Loft conversions are affordable and can cost anywhere between $20,000 and $50,000 depending on its size, design, and necessary structural work. Be realistic about costs.
• Existing Layout/Foundations – This would require an engineer to evaluate the suitability of extension work.
• Planning Permission –Loft conversions may not need planning permission, especially if a homeowner wishes to create up to a 40m3 space. However, it is always essential to consult the local authority.
• Building Regulations – For construction, it is mandatory to seek approval of the Building Regulations even if the planning permission is not sought.
• Access – Consider how furniture or materials will be lifted during work.

Roof Extensions: Advantages and Disadvantages

Roof extensions offer many benefits but also some downsides to consider:

Pros:

• Expand your home, but not to another living area
• Low investment return ratio if compared with some home extension options
• Less expensive than constructing a second story in a new building
• Design an area that can be closed to form a living space

Cons:

• Disturbances that occur when the conversion work is proceeding
• Construction work that may or may not entail additional technical work
• Effect on the kind of roof that is currently in place
• Prohibitive on the placement of windows or doors
• Some storage space in the loft may be sacrificed in an attempt to achieve the desired objective.

Approved Document for the Roof Extension

Structural Stability

As provided for by the building regulations, you also need to protect or enhance the stability of the existing roof structure. This is done by specialist structural engineering assessments.

Fire Safety

There are separate requirements for fire separation between the conversion and the floor below. Some of the walls and ceilings will require a fire rating and, therefore, insulation.

Access and Use

New loft space needs to be made easily accessible while ensuring its safety, and the staircase must be a permanent structure; it must not be over 50 degrees in slope. All openings below 800mm from the stairs must be protected with safety glazing.

Thermal Insulation

High insulation intensity is necessary to meet energy performance requirements. This comprises roof and attic insulation like that between the rafters, exterior walls, especially the wall cavities, and windows, with improved thermal performance.

What Will It Cost?

As much as the above steps are followed, below is the general cost range you are expected to pay for a professional loft conversion company. The cost range which people should expect to pay ranges from $20,000 to $50,000+. The cost of getting a professional company to do the loft conversion for you varies depending on the size of the room, the design of the loft, and a number of other factors, which include:

• Civil Works
• Roof works, new rafters, felt, battens, slates/tiles
• Stairs
• Windows
• Plumbing, electrics, heating, and lighting

Conclusion

Loft conversions are a sensible home improvement venture since they convert what would otherwise be wasted space into the square footage of your choice in function and form. In the cases where the roof extension is well planned and prepared following the guidelines provided herein, the project should go through its various stages to completion without any hitches. Use well-established engineers, architects, and builders to achieve your dreams without spending a fortune.