Loft Conversion In Richmond – Planning Your Project
The prices of properties in most parts of the UK go on increasing. For this reason, studies reveal that more residents are opting for loft conversion to create more space in their home.
This is commonly happening in Richmond as well; especially in homes with terraces, for more than a decade since the increase in property prices have prompted homeowners to search for other ways to add more space. However, as of this moment, this has become a national trend.
Be Aware of Regulations
While your plan may not require permission, you still need to know the building regulations. Many people have faced problems when they attempted to perform their loft conversion in Richmond without doing their assignment or getting the proper advice.
Lots of real estate agents say that homeowners who DIY without going through the required checks often come up with storage space that costs too much, instead of the additional bedroom they need. Here are five major points you have to keep in mind.
- Structural Stability
Load bearing walls, ceiling joists and foundations need to be durable enough to last for a long time.
- Fire Resistance
A fire resistant door should enclose the stairs.
- Access and Exit
There should be VELUX® escape/access skylights and stairs to allow people to have a way to go out in case of emergency.
- Weather Resistance and Conserved Energy
Through insulation, the roof and loft walls can retain heat and be protected from the elements.
- Ventilation
It is important to provide clean air to living atmosphere as well as venting moist stale air that could bring about condensation and cause different structural problems in the long run.
When a loft conversion in Richmond does not conform to building regulations, it can only be marketed as storage and not an extra bedroom. Moreover, you will not be able to get the desired price for the property. Worst of all, you may unintentionally cut through the joints that support the joists that hold the roof up. However, this costs a lot and could mean that your house is unsalable.
The Most Common Loft Designs
Some of the design ideas to maximize the roof space are as follows:
A traditional total loft conversion is the installation of a master/guest room, which includes a bath/shower room. This would probably offer the best return on investment and could be the most expensive among all designs.
Since a lot of individuals are working from home, the home office has become a popular loft design. This usually comes with several cabinets, room for storage and wiring for needed gadgets. When planning to go for this kind of design, it would help to add features like electric sockets for your working table.
To create additional space for your children, you could transform your loft into a playroom or den for teens. This way, this room would be fitting for your growing kids who stay at home for a longer time.
If ever you plan to sell, you can make your home look more attractive by turning your attic space into a simple well-lighted storage space and making it accessible by means of a sturdy. This is how a finish of a loft should be prior to a plan to move out. This adds more value to a property, making it more salable since homeowners can always make use of more space.
More Points to Take Into Consideration when planning a loft conversion in Richmond
Headroom
Though generally, the headroom of a loft should be from 7 to 8 feet, more room is always better.
Complexity
Based on your design choice, you may have to seek the advice of a designer or architect. However, if you just opt for a basic loft conversion, your builder could offer his services when it comes to drawing plans.
Staircase
If the new room is meant to provide more living space, you need a staircase. Part of the second-floor room could be used to make a staircase to your loft.
Safety
Always consider fire safety and exit windows whenever evaluating how your roof space would fit in your home.
Planning
Though majority of loft conversions do not require planning permission, if your roof space is included in the restrictions, a dormer may need to be installed and this needs permission. Do not forget about the Party Wall Act and building regulations.
Plumbing
Make sure that your present central heating system will be suitable for additional heating in your roof space. Do you plan to add a W.C. or en-suite?
In addition to the aforementioned considerations, many conversions are workable. However, it is always best to hire a loft conversion in Richmond professional so your plans can be accomplished according to your specifications.