Major Projects Guide To Loft Conversions

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1. We wish to have our loft coverted into a bedroom onsuite. Our hause is a 1930 semi. I was wondering what would be the best boiler for the job in order to cope with the extra shower room and radiators. Do we replace our existing back boiler cylinder or do we install a Condensing boiler? I've had mixed reviews from builders as to which is the best! Many thanks.

   Posted by Darren Cox on 11/09/2009 13:45:07

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2. We ahve a detached bungalow at present and are thinking about having the loft converted but would like to do it on a DIY basis and would like more information could you point us in the right direction.

   Posted by Lyn Pearson on 11/09/2009 08:55:03

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3. I am considering starting a loft conversion business and would like to research more on the subject. Any ideas where I can get info?

   Posted by ziggy on 11/07/2009 18:43:11

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4. We are in the process of starting to think about a loft conversion and really need advise and help with the whole process.

   Posted by Kate Smith on 25/06/2009 10:59:34

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5. I am considering purchasing a cottage which has some localised dry rot and the septic tank seems to be evading detection! I just wondered if these issues would be very difficult and/or expensive to rectify?

   Posted by Joyce on 24/05/2009 12:56:23

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6. If your questions do not get answered here please feel free to visit our website above-it-all.co.uk and go to our FAQ section for expert technical advice. We are a loft conversion company operating in M/cr, Cheshire and Lancashire.

   Posted by Dream Lofts on 13/05/2009 09:23:59

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7. Regarding the plumbing in the existing attic (a cold water tank in the middle) %u2013 it should not be a problem for a loft conversion. Simply the tank can either be changed with a longer, low profile coffin tank that can fit in the corner under the sloped roof or upgrading the old gravity fed system to either a new combi condensing boiler that does not need a water storage substituting the existing water tank and hot water cylinder with a modern pressurized hot water cylinder. During the process of converting a loft it is a good time to modernize your old fashioned plumbing system.

   Posted by loft conversions on 28/04/2009 00:58:14

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8. Hi George just a quick question on a loft conversion, I live in Sth London & I was hoping you could point me in the right direction for some good loft convertors in my area thanks..

   Posted by Mr Roberts on 15/04/2009 19:23:44

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9. The roof can be raised but you would need a planning permission for this.

   Posted by Dimnan on 09/03/2009 07:25:38

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10. I am having my loft converted, which will make my (very small) house 4 floors - currently ground, first & second, will have third - loft. Several other properties in the same area have all had similar works done. Planning Control have told me I need to have a sprinkler system fitted to ALL floors even though there are no 'open plan' spaces on any of the floors. (designed specifically that way to avoid the need for sprinklers in the first place!) Does anyone know where I can find information to support the fact that I shouldn't need sprinklers? None of the other properties which have been converted have installed sprinklers! All rooms have fire doors of course. Thanks!

    Posted by sara dearn on 25/02/2009 15:43:40

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11. Do planning/ building regulation allow for the roof height to be raised.?

    Posted by Frank Dooley on 31/01/2009 19:47:57

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12. Planning to have extraroom in the loft and the buget very small. Need the buider/architect in NW London who are reliable. Also refit the kitchen

    Posted by Bena on 12/01/2009 22:23:38

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13. We are planning to have a loft conversion done due to need for additional room. The budget is limited and I was wondering if there is any way of finding a good but affordable architect and a builder in north London. Thank you

    Posted by Yaser on 23/11/2008 16:11:45

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14. Will George be able to advise us on where we can find a good but cheap if possible architect who can help us renovate our house in Cardiff? Many Thanks, Rebecca & Nabil Douirani.

    Posted by N Douirani on 18/11/2008 16:15:25

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15. I would like info/advice on fire proof doors for my 1920's house as I am told the doors and possibly franmes must be replaced if I convert my loft. Have you any advice on attractive doors for a period house?

    Posted by Mary Whitby on 15/11/2008 18:14:14

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16. Would it be possible to say something about planning applications in conservation areas? The legislation seems to be changing and it's hard to know what I can and cannot do and whether it's worth pursuing if the planning restrictions restrict the space too much. Even the council planning department seem to be rather vague about it - they say I should submit plans but that will cost me money upfront. Also, is it best to go with a loft extension specialist or employ an architect and find a builder myself?

    Posted by C J Lyon on 07/11/2008 12:29:33

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17. I would love to convert my loft, but the original builders put all the tanks smack bang in the middle, and all the roof trusses have cross braces. I think there's enough extra space from the family bathroom to add a staircase, but the first two points I think make it impractical. :-(

    Posted by bagnall on 04/11/2008 09:09:04

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18. A great article! So far the 4homes website has been very interesting reading and guides like this can be very helpful. Preparation is one of the most important aspects of any project, particularly when dealing with an existing building. The last thing you want to do is to cut corners in the design and preparation stage in order to save time and or money, as it will increase the possibility of more expensive and time consuming problems in construction. A project specific check list or wish list is a great idea and can help you decide what you want to do and understand what's involved and if it's possible! After all if it's worth doing.....

    Posted by Matthew Franklin on 29/10/2008 16:58:15

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19. Thanks Colleen, noted and actioned!

    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 29/09/2008 11:59:05

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20. Hi, The above information on loft conversions is useful but it would be great to have a list of questions to ask yourself/your architect about loft conversions. This would be really useful as it could broaden out possibilities and help eliminate any issues at an early stage.

    Posted by Colleen Dews on 29/08/2008 17:40:46

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21. Very interesting and informative. With the costs of housing continuing to rise a loft conversion is looking more attractive every day for those homeowners who want more house room but don't want the high cost of moving.

    Posted by Craig Ellyard on 12/08/2008 11:16:46

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