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What is a mansard loft conversion?

A mansard loft conversion is a type of loft conversion which makes use of the sloping sides of a roof to create additional headroom and floor space. It is one of the most popular types of loft conversions, as it can add a significant amount of space to a property. Mansard loft conversions are usually only suitable for properties with hipped roofs, as this is the only type of roof which has the required slope. However, if your property does have a hipped roof, then a mansard loft conversion could be the perfect way to make use of the available space.

What is a mansard loft conversion?

A mansard loft conversion is a type of home improvement project that involves adding an extra level to your home by converting the roof space into additional living space. This can be a great way to add value to your property and get more use out of your home, but it is important to understand what is involved in such a project before getting started.

One of the main benefits of a mansard loft conversion is that it can provide you with a significant amount of extra living space without requiring you to move house. This can be especially beneficial if you live in an area where property prices are high and finding a bigger home would be difficult or expensive. Mansard loft conversions can also be much cheaper than moving house or extending your existing home, making them a great option if you’re on a budget.

Another benefit of mansard loft conversions is that they often don’t require planning permission, unlike other types of home improvement projects. This means that you can usually get started straight away, which can be ideal if you’re keen to make the most of your new space as soon as possible.

The potential downside of mansard loft conversions is that they can be disruptive and messy, so it’s important to be prepared for this before getting started. You’ll also need to factor in the cost of any necessary structural work, which will vary depending on the size and complexity of your project. However, many people feel that the potential benefits outweigh any drawbacks, making mansard loft conversions an attractive

Why choose a mansard loft conversion?

Mansard loft conversions are becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason. Here are just a few of the benefits of choosing a mansard loft conversion:

1. Mansard loft conversions can add a significant amount of extra living space to your home.

2. The sloping walls of a mansard loft conversion can create an interesting and unique interior design.

3. Mansard loft conversions can be relatively straightforward to carry out, and can often be completed within a matter of weeks.

4. A mansard loft conversion can add significant value to your property, making it an excellent investment.

So if you’re thinking about carrying out a loft conversion, a mansard loft conversion could be the perfect option for you.

How much does a mansard loft conversion cost?

There are a few factors that will affect the cost of your mansard loft conversion, including the size and condition of your property, the amount of work required, and whether or not you need planning permission. Generally speaking, a mansard loft conversion can cost anywhere from £15,000 to £30,000.

If you’re thinking about having a mansard loft conversion carried out on your home, it’s important to get several quotes from different contractors to ensure you’re getting the best possible price.

1970's Mansard roof houses — Mansard roof

Mansard loft conversion process

A mansard loft conversion is a type of loft conversion that involves adding a new storey to the existing roof. This is usually done by converting the existing attic space into a new room, or by extending the roofline upwards to create additional space.

The mansard loft conversion process typically involves:

1. Planning and design: The first step is to consult with an architect or builder to discuss your plans and get drawings drawn up. You will need planning permission for this type of conversion, so it’s important to make sure your plans are in line with local planning regulations.

2. Structural work: The next step is to carry out any structural work required to support the new storey. This may involve strengthening the existing walls and ceilings, or installing new supports such as steel beams.

3. Roofing: Once the structural work is complete, the roof can be extended upwards and new roofing materials installed. This part of the process will vary depending on the specific design of your conversion.

4. Windows and doors: New windows and doors will need to be installed to provide access to the new space. Again, the specific details will depend on your individual design.

5. Internal finishes: The final step is to add any internal finishes you desire, such as plasterboard walls, flooring, lighting, etc. Once everything is complete, you’ll have a brand new mansard loft conversion that adds valuable extra space to your home!

Conclusion

Mansard loft conversions are a great way to add extra living space to your home. They are also relatively easy to do, and can be completed in a short amount of time. If you are considering doing a mansard loft conversion, be sure to consult with a professional first to get an accurate estimate of the costs and time involved.

Can my neighbour stop my conversion or extension?

The most likely source of objections about a planning application is the people living closest to it. One or more objections do not mean your application will be rejected, but it’s better to have as few objections as possible. After all, consulting the people affected by the proposals is a kind thing to do. Sometimes protests from neighbours are based on misunderstanding and misinformation, which could be avoided entirely if you spoke with them before making your application. Sometimes it’s fear for their environment, which in some cases might be understandable and avoidable.

Consult with local residents

Consulting with local residents is a matter to be judged in each case and depends on your relationship with them. If you are on good terms, you might want to bring up the proposal as early as just an idea to see how people react, or when you start getting draft drawings done. You could also pop by for a cup of tea to discuss the proposal with those who live nearby.

On the other hand, if you suspect that someone will reject the proposal regardless of what it is, or you don’t have a good relationship with that person, it might be best not to bring it up at all. An early warning gives them time to prepare their opposition and lobby, other neighbours, before the application goes public.

How far afield to consult will depend on the scale and potential impact of the project. For example, speaking to your neighbours when considering the possibilities for a rear extension might be just enough. However, if you’re drawing up plans for a new house, talking to neighbours in either direction on each side of the road and properties at the back could be helpful. If you don’t know your neighbours or aren’t comfortable knocking on doors, you can simply send out introductory letters to introduce yourself and your project.

Talking to your neighbours

If you want to show your neighbours why you’re suggesting a certain design, explaining what you’ve planned and showing how it will preserve their interests, like not obstructing their view or taking windows out of their garden, is essential. It can be hard for people to understand the content with drawings, so we’ll take them outside and point out where walls and windows will be located. You should always ask your neighbours if they have any concerns, but remember that some people might not be comfortable talking about those concerns in front of others. If a neighbour does raise something, consider whether this is something you would be willing to change in order to accommodate them. Many times changes can make everyone happy. To avoid confusion, you may want to schedule another meeting with the neighbours after any possible updates are made.

You may want to consider asking your neighbours whether or not they would be willing to provide written support for your proposal. One way to do this is by enabling them to write a letter, which is then submitted along with the proposal or even sent on after the proposal is filed.

Even if they would love to write something, there’s always the possibility that they’ll take their time. To ensure you don’t forget about providing this supportive letter, consider drafting a letter and sending it over to them in advance. Remember to customize each letter as much as possible so it doesn’t seem like a generic and impersonal mistake!

One way to get neighbours on-side is to contact them and ask what they think of your plans. If you do this, you might want to write it down in case they mention any information that could be useful to include in a planning application letter or statement later down the line.

Do I need a structural engineer for a loft conversion?

Deciding to convert your loft is a big one. Not only do you have to think about the cost and disruption, but also the practicalities of the project itself. One of the key considerations is whether or not you need a structural engineer for your loft conversion. There are a few things to bear in mind when making this decision, including the type of property you have and the scope of work required. In this blog post, we’ll explore when you need a structural engineer for a loft conversion, and what role they play in ensuring your project is successful.

What is a loft conversion?

A loft conversion is an extension of your home that is built into the roof space. It often involves adding windows and skylights to brighten up the space, and may also include extending the ceiling height to create a more spacious feel. A loft conversion can be a great way to add extra living space to your home without having to move house.

If you are considering a loft conversion, you will need to employ a structural engineer to assess the feasibility of the project and to design the necessary support structures. The engineer will also need to liaise with your local authority to ensure that the conversion meets all building regulations.

What types of loft conversions are there?

There are many different types of loft conversions, each with their own benefits and drawbacks. The most common type is the dormer conversion, which adds a small extension to the back of the house. This is a good option if you want to add an extra bedroom or bathroom, as it doesn’t require planning permission.

Another popular option is the hip-to-gable conversion, which extends the side of the house. This is a good choice if you want to create a large open-plan space, as it gives you more headroom than a dormer conversion.

If you want to create a truly bespoke space, then a Mansard conversion could be the right choice for you. This involves extending the roof of the house, so it’s ideal if you want to create an extra storey. However, it will require planning permission and is more expensive than other options.

What are the benefits of a loft conversion?

There are many benefits of a loft conversion, including:

1. Increasing the value of your home – a loft conversion can add up to 20% to the value of your property, making it a great investment.

2. Creating extra space – a loft conversion provides you with additional space that can be used for a variety of purposes, such as an extra bedroom, office or playroom.

3. Enhancing your home’s energy efficiency – by insulating your loft space, you can reduce heat loss and save money on your energy bills.

4. Improving the appearance of your home – a well-designed loft conversion can be a real asset to your property, enhancing its kerb appeal.

How much does a loft conversion cost?

A loft conversion is one of the most popular home improvement projects in the UK.

But how much does a loft conversion cost? The answer, of course, depends on the size and complexity of your project.

As a general guide, a simple loft conversion (which might involve little more than adding some insulation and boarding out the space) could cost as little as £5,000.

At the other end of the scale, a more complex project (which might involve structural work, altering the roofline or installing Velux windows) could set you back £30,000 or more.

So it’s important to get professional advice before planning your loft conversion. A good place to start is with a accredited loft conversions specialist who can assess your property and give you an idea of what’s possible and how much it is likely to cost.

When you require a structural engineer?

Making structural changes to your home can be a tricky business, particularly if you don’t have the right contacts. With hundreds of thousands of pounds at stake, it is important that any alterations are carried out with care and attention to detail. This can be difficult for homeowners, who may not have experience in dealing with building projects.

In order to ensure that you get the most out of your loft conversion or other structural work, hiring an architect or structural engineer is one of the best things you can do before beginning construction work on your home.

How do I know if I need a structural engineer for my loft conversion project?

Most loft conversions will require some form of structural engineering, whether it’s for the design of the new staircase or support for the roof.

The first step is to check with your local authority planning department to see if they have any specific requirements for your project.

If you are unsure whether your project will need structural engineering, it’s always best to consult with a professional. A structural engineer can assess your project and give you advice on whether you need their services.

The role of a structural engineer

We know that the role of a structural engineer is important for the successful completion of any project. A structural engineer will be able to advise you on how to make your loft conversion safe and secure. They will also be able to assist you with planning consent applications, as well as building regulations applications.

A structural engineer may help you with:

Building Regulations application forms. This includes plans and calculations required by local authorities to ensure that your loft conversion meets building regulations standards.
Designing foundations for external structures such as walls or balconies attached to existing buildings which need additional support due to the increase in load placed upon them by adding loft space onto existing structures.

The cost of using a structural engineer

Structural engineers are experts in their field, but they can be expensive. The average UK structural engineer will charge between £150 and £300 per hour, with the average rate being around £200 per hour.

Conclusion

If you’re considering a loft conversion, the answer to whether or not you need a structural engineer is most likely yes. A structural engineer will be able to assess your property and ensure that it is suitable for a loft conversion, as well as provide advice on the best way to go about it. While you may be able to convert your loft without a structural engineer, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and get one involved from the start.

Do you need planning permission for a dormer loft conversion?

If you’re considering a loft conversion and want to know if you need planning permission, the answer is maybe. It depends on a few factors, such as the size and location of your property, as well as the type of conversion you’re planning. To get a better understanding of whether or not you need planning permission for a dormer loft conversion, read on. We’ll cover all the key points so you can make an informed decision about your project.

What is a dormer loft conversion?

A dormer loft conversion is a type of extension that projects vertically from the slope of a roof. It’s a popular choice for those wanting to create additional space in their home as it can add both floor space and headroom.

Dormer loft conversions are normally only suitable for properties with enough existing roof space. To be able to add a dormer, there must be enough height and width available on the sloping part of the roof. The size and position of dormers will be determined by the amount of space available and where the best light can be achieved.

As well as being an effective way to create additional living space, dormer loft conversions can also add value to your property. They are usually more expensive than other types of loft conversions but this cost is often offset by the extra value they add to your home.

Why you might need planning permission

You might need planning permission for your dormer loft conversion if the following applies:

-The dormer will protrude from the existing roof more than 15cm.

-The height of the dormer will be taller than 2m.

-The dormer will take up more than 40% of the existing roof space.

-You live in a conservation area or listed building.

How to apply for planning permission

If you are considering a dormer loft conversion, you will need to apply for planning permission from your local authority. The process can be complex, so it is important to seek professional advice before proceeding. You can take a look at a list of projects that needs planning permission.

There are a number of things to consider when applying for planning permission, including the size and location of your proposed dormer, the impact on the surrounding properties and the visual appearance of the finished conversion. You will also need to submit detailed plans and drawings of your proposal.

The planning permission process can be time-consuming, so it is important to start early. Once you have submitted your application, the decision-making process can take up to eight weeks. If your application is successful, you will be granted a planning permit that will allow you to proceed with your conversion.

What are the benefits of a dormer loft conversion?

There are many benefits to a dormer loft conversion, including:

1. Increased living space – a dormer loft conversion will add valuable extra living space to your home, which can be used for any purpose you desire, from an extra bedroom or playroom for the kids to a home office or gym.

2. Improved property value – as well as providing you with extra living space, a dormer loft conversion can also add significant value to your property, making it a great investment for the future.

3. Enhanced natural light and ventilation – compared to a standard loft conversion, a dormer loft conversion will let in more natural light and provide better ventilation, making it a much more pleasant place to spend time in.

4. Greater headroom – due to the sloped nature of most roofs, standard loft conversions can often be quite cramped and have limited headroom. A dormer loft conversion will create more headroom thanks to the addition of vertical walls, making it feel much more spacious.

5. Better energy efficiency – because they let in more natural light and air, dormer loft conversions can also help improve the energy efficiency of your home, saving you money on heating and lighting bills in the long run.

How to choose the right company for your project

When planning a dormer loft conversion, one of the most important decisions you will make is choosing the right company to carry out the work. There are a number of things to consider when making this decision, including:

– The experience and expertise of the company. Make sure they have carried out similar projects before and that they have the necessary skills and knowledge to complete your project to a high standard.

– The cost of the project. Get several quotes from different companies before making a decision. Make sure you are clear on what is included in the price and that there are no hidden costs.

– The timescale for the project. Find out how long the company will need to complete the work and whether this fits in with your own timeframe.

– The terms and conditions of the contract. Make sure you understand everything in the contract before signing it, including any warranties or guarantees that are offered.

Conclusion

If you are considering a dormer loft conversion, it is important to check with your local planning department to see if you need permission. In most cases, you will not need permission for a small dormer loft conversion, but if your plans are for a larger project, it is best to get approval before starting any work. With the right planning and permissions in place, your dormer loft conversion can be a great way to add extra space and value to your home.