Loft Conversion Feasibility

Loft Conversions or an attic conversions are a well defined process of transforming an empty attic space or loft into a functional room.  Typically loft conversions are used to give an extra bedroom, a neat office space, storage space and in some cases a gym. Loft conversions are probably the most cost effective forms of home improvement in the United Kingdom, together with their numerous perceived benefits.  The installation of a loft conversion is a process that must be managed properly, and whilst it may be possible to attempt a ‘DIY’ loft conversion, the large amount of work involved often results in many people choosing to contract a specialist loft conversion company to undertake the task.  If you try to cut corners and do not use essential ‘purlin beams’ to create a substantial support for the new floor; then the ceilings underneath will start cracking and bowing under the weight of the contents of the new room above.

The first stage of any loft conversion is a close inspection of the loft space to find out its exact dimensions and whether a loft conversion is feasible at all. On entering the loft one needs to establish if there is adequate head room under the ridge of the roof.  A measurement of 2.3 metres is required to allow enough headroom, although, you can still get a useful size room from as little as 7 feet (2.1 metres), however, there must be at least 2 metres clearance above the position of the stair access.

Two main deciding factors will determine the feasibility of a loft conversion

Two main deciding factors will determine the feasibility of a loft conversion, are (a) the slope of the roof and (b) the required access headroom.  Minimum height of approximately 2.2 m (7 ft 6 in) measured from the joist to the apex. Providing that this minimum requirement is met, most properties will likely possess the potential to have the loft space converted.