6 Reasons to Consider a Loft Conversion

At some point, you might feel the need to move to a more spacious house. But unfortunately, not everyone has that luxury - maybe you don’t want to live in a different location or financial constraints are keeping you from buying a new place.

Thankfully, you don’t have to resort to moving out of your precious home to get the space you want. One solution is to convert your attic into a loft.

In this blog, we’ll share some of the top reasons you should consider a loft renovation. Who knows? It might be the perfect solution to your small space woes.

Top benefits of doing a loft conversion

1. Create a brand-new and versatile area

The most common reason to consider a loft conversion is to add a new floor to your house without building an addition or finishing a basement. You can turn it into a comfortable and functional study room, a home office, a family room, a man cave, or a loft bedroom. You can also change the room’s configuration as your needs change. 

Converting your loft into a habitable space is usually more affordable compared to building an addition. It also doesn’t eat away space from your backyard or your front yard. That way, you can continue to enjoy your outdoor space, while having more room indoors.

Additionally, a loft is usually sunnier and more comfortable compared to a basement. You can add a skylight or a dormer window to make the space brighter and airier.

2. Add value to your home

Converting your attic into a loft can add value to your home. Buyers are likely to appreciate the extra space on the top floor. When it’s time for you to sell the house, be sure to stage the loft as a guestroom or an office.

If you’re torn about the pros and cons of adding a loft to your home, consider consulting a local real estate agent regarding how much a loft conversion can change the value of your home. This will give you a clear idea of the project’s return on investment.

3. Take it as an opportunity to repair your roof

Converting your attic into a loft is a good time to also check your roof’s condition and make necessary repairs. It’s also a good opportunity to make your roof sturdier. Your building designer or draftsman can add new strengthening beams or gable walls to make your roof more structurally sound.

4. Fewer disruptions during renovation

Everyone knows how stressful it can be to renovate one’s home. Unlike renovating the main floor of your house, however, converting your attic into a loft only requires minimal disruptions to your daily life. That's because most of the construction work will be done upstairs.

Still, make sure that builders have a closed-off area that they can use to access the loft area. You should also prepare for days in which you might experience water or electrical disruptions, especially if you’re adding a bathroom to your loft.

5. You’ll get better views

If you’re not satisfied with the views you currently have from your first or second floor, converting your attic into a loft may be the right choice. Because of the higher elevation, you’ll get a better view of your yard and your neighbourhood. 

If you have the budget for it, you can also consider adding a roof terrace that opens up from your loft. Not only will this give you a breathtaking view of your surroundings, but the roof terrace can also double as an extra entertaining space for your guests.

6. Lofts are energy efficient

When building a loft, it’s a standard practice to add insulation to the attic’s walls, ceilings, and floors. This prevents heat from escaping through the roof. That way, you don’t just create extra living space, you also save on heating bills.

However, due to a loft’s insulative properties, it can get quite hot during the summer. Consider adding a facade window as well as a roof window to maximise airflow.

What to know before you start your loft renovation

Now that you have a clear idea of why a loft conversion may be worth the investment. But before you start your loft conversion project, make sure to take note of the following:

Hire a building designer

Converting your attic into a habitable space means you have to meet certain building codes. Depending on the regulations in your area, you may have to reinforce floor joists, add insulation, build stairs, and increase the ceiling height.

For these reasons, it’s important to hire an experienced building designer when planning a loft conversion. They’ll not only make sure that you have a comfortable and functional space, but they’ll also create a design that meets local building codes.

Don’t forget to add a bathroom, if possible

Nobody wants to walk up and down several flights of stairs in order to do their business in the bathroom. If you have the budget for it, add a bathroom or a powder room in your loft. This will make the space a lot more convenient.

Inform your home insurance company

It pays to inform your home insurance company that you’re adding a loft to your home. That way, they can adjust your homeowner’s insurance coverage to account for the newly constructed space.

Check local regulations on rentals

Some people choose to convert their attics into a loft in order to generate extra income. However, keep in mind that most localities have specific laws regarding creating an income-generating space inside residential areas, so brush up on local regulations before going with this option.

Converting your attic into a loft is one of the most hassle-free ways to add extra living space to your house. It also won’t require you to sacrifice your garden or your backyard.

Once you’re ready to convert your loft into an attic, be sure to hire a building designer or a draftsman. That way, you can be sure to have a well-designed and structurally sound loft.