You may have an addition to the family seen. You may want an exercise space. Perhaps someone needs a sewing room. There are a number of reasons to need more space. Most attics have a lot of dead space just sitting there. Why not turn it into something good. Loft conversions involve converting a part of your attic into living space. This type of improvement is gaining popularity. Many new houses today are built to accept a loft conversion. Older houses can also be used. These improvements are especially popular in the U. K. These days. Many people do not have the space to add on to their houses. However, they can use existing space for living area.

Can it be done?

It is very important to measure and assess. You do not want to start a conversion if there is not enough room. You need about seven and one half feet under the roof peak. You may be able to go as low as seven feet. You should have a minimum of six and one half feet, over the access stairs to the attic. If you plan on hiring someone, they can tell you if it is possible. If you are going to try it yourself, you still might get an estimate. There are good reasons for this. You will know for sure if it can be done. You will know if there will be any major problems. It will give you something to cost compare with. You may decide it is better to hire someone to do the job. There are five basic types of conversions for attics.

Dormer in the rear conversion

A dormer is an add-on to the roof. They are popular as they add on space and more head room. The back dormer usually runs across most of the back of the house. This can create an incredible amount of living space.

Side or front dormer conversion

These are usually smaller dormers. You will commonly see these on the fronts of houses. Some houses are built with dormers such as these. Even though they are smaller, you can have more than one. This depends on your roof space.

Hop to gable conversion

This type of Loft Conversions are a bit more complicated. It also requires a great deal more skill. If you have a hip roof, you convert one end to a gabled roof. A hip roof slopes on all sides. A gabled roof only slopes from front to back. A conversion like this can create a nice living space, where there was none before.

Mansard conversion

This takes place on a flat roof. These dormers are relatively small, but serve their purpose for space.

Velux

This is sometimes called a roof window conversion. There is no building on. The room is created within the attic. There is less room and less head-space. However, it involves less construction.

Loft conversions offer a great way to expand without buying a new house. You can increase the value and improve living conditions. It may take a lot of planning, but it will mean more living space.