Roof-space-only conversion
This type of conversion is sometimes described as a roof light, attic or VELUX conversion.
The structural modification does not involve extending the loft area, but instead placing VELUX® windows within the existing roof line.
Daylight is provided by roof windows or by lights set into the roof slope rather than by dormer projections.
Best London Lofts will adapt the existing roof for maximum space, so you get vertical windows and plenty of extra living space – plus the storage space when all the nooks and crannies are made into shelves and cupboards.
Such conversions do not require planning permission, making this the simplest and least costly way to enlarge your home.
Dormer conversion
A dormer conversion is typically built when full-height space must be added to your loft.
This type of extension to the roof line varies in size and can be flat or gabled. If you plan to put a dormer window on the front of your home or overlooking a highway, you will need to apply forplanning permission as this conversion structurally and visually alters your house.
Rear dormers are the most popular conversion approach – they offer great flexibility in the choice of rooms possible within the loft space.
Rear dormers can be constructed on most terraced and semi-detached properties.
Hip-to-gable conversion
A hip-to-gable conversion means building up the end wall to create a gable wall that meets the ridge at the top, which has been extended from its existing position.
This increases the internal volume and height of the loft, and dormers can also be added to create character and make the most of the space.
This type of conversion can result in much more space than a standard dormer conversion, potentially housing two new rooms and a bathroom, as well as more standing room and space for the staircase to be fitted.
A hip-to-gable conversion is usually done at the back of a property to avoid planning permissionobjections.
Mansard conversion
A mansard conversion adds a considerable amount of space to a loft room, usually at the back.
Brick sides built off the party wall and a flat roof combine to create maximum headroom and floor space within the converted loft area.
With a flat roof, the walls slope into the room at an angle of 72° while the windows are built into small dormers.
Daylight is provided either by vertical windows, by recessed windows or by roof windows set in the same plane as the mansard slope.
Although primarily used in the conversion of buildings with London roofs, this style of loft conversion can also be a solution to the problems faced when trying to convert any property with the existing roof at a very shallow pitch.
Planning permission will usually be required for this type of conversion.