Category: Loft Conversion

Finally, you have decided to have your loft converted.

But, is the idea of accessibility bothering you?

Worried about how to access the newly constructed living space?

The idea of loft staircase positioning causing a headache?

Do you know, bad staircase to loft is one of the common reasons that make the loft conversions rejected by building inspectors?

Relax. Don’t Worry. We have got your apprehensions covered.

Loft conversion staircase is a bit tricky affair and you need specialist to get it right. The positioning of the stairs not only impacts your newly converted space but also adds to your existing house flows.

Keep reading the blog to know where your staircase should be placed for your loft conversion that will add magic and style to your loft.

Important Considerations for staircase to loft conversion

While planning your staircase to loft conversion, the most obvious thing that strikes the mind is to find the best place to install staircase that makes the loft accessible as well as marks the exit on the ground floor.

Usually the shortest distance between these two points is considered ideal for staircase construction as it would make it easy to escape in case of an emergency.

But, there are a lot many practical considerations that also need to be taken into account which may prelude the aforementioned theory.

For any loft conversion staircase solutions, they should be a blend of perfect planning, need, building regulations, fire safety and emergency escapes.

Where should loft conversion staircase be located?

If you are considering DIY options for loft staircase, then there are chances that you may end up in utilizing a large amount of floor space.

Consulting a professional will make sure that your loft conversion staircase are not only placed conveniently but also leave maximum space for the conversion.

Have a look at the options

1. Over the existing stairs

This option is a great pick when you are planning a space saving staircase for loft conversion that gives a symmetric look and adds aesthetics to you place.

This placement of stairs will ensure that you don’t lose out on extra headroom as the floor space utilized is minimum.

2. Taking away a section of another room

It may happen that placing the staircase over the existing stairs may not be possible or feasible due to some structural or space limitations. An alternate option is to utilize a section from other room.

To lessen down the inconvenience caused, there are two options that you can go for.

• You can choose a section from a rarely used room for the staircase construction.
• If all the rooms are equally occupied, then you can use a small section from the largest room.

These two options will make sure that the impact caused due to loft staircase construction is not that apparent.

3. Space saver staircases

This option should be considered as the last resort in case no other option works out in your loft conversion design. You need to be aware that space saving staircase for loft conversion are quite unpopular with building inspectors.

For the homes that have a limited access and space constraints, stairs with alternating treads can be used. The unique treads make the staircase more small and compact.

If you zero-in on this option, then you may need to follow building regulations such as installing handrails, fire safety measures etc.

Also, you need to make sure that your building inspector is aware of this design so as to avoid rejection or penalty.

Know the loft staircase regulations UK

While designing the staircase for loft conversion, adherence to building regulations is a must. The prime reason is the stability of the property which is indeed the top priority.

The loft staircase has to ensure proper headroom clearance and comply with the minimum head height requirements as stated by the building regulations.

In a nutshell, the stairs have to be placed at the highest part of the loft. Apart from that, the loft staircase regulations UK also have certain parameters set for the width and height of the steps or risers.

The loft conversion staircase specialists in UK make sure that the pitch of the stairs is not steep and fall within the permitted limits.

The fire safety regulations do not allow having a retractable ladder. The loft staircase should meet proper fire escape routes as well that includes installing a fire door to the stairs.

Reach out to a reputed Loft conversion company in UK for accurate guidance and installation on placement of fire door.

Types of loft staircase

Have a look at some common types of stairs that work brilliantly well for loft conversions.

The loft stairs are broadly classified into two main categories – fixed and pull-down stairs.

Have a look at some types of space saving staircase for loft conversion.

1. Pre-made stairs

Pre-made stairs are attractive, durable and budget friendly option. They are designed and installed by the manufactures to connect the loft to the lower level seamlessly.

2. Bespoke stairs

As the name suggests, these stairs are custom-made as per the need, requirement and budget considerations. These sturdy and elegant stairs add a unique flare to the space and accentuate the style indeed.

3. Spiral stairs

The shape of spiral staircase to loft not only adds to the aesthetics but also saves plenty of the space. The only challenge is to ensure that they meet the building regulations.

4. Alternating tread

Alternating tread is a great space saving option when you are considering staircase to loft in a restricted space. Adding a handrail is a must as per the building regulations.

Each step is generally half of the conventional staircase and is steeper than normal loft staircases.

You can also go for pull-down loft conversion staircase solutions that include sliding, folding and disappearing stairs.

The Bottom Line

Looking for a reputed and reliable loft conversion company near you?

Exploring internet for a company that works as per your vision and keeps customer satisfaction as their priority?

TEL Constructions-UK’s most trusted loft Conversion Company offers best loft conversion solutions with exceptional accessibility options.

The seasoned and professional designers at TEL Constructions have diverse and varied experience in designing both residential and commercial loft conversions with beautifully crafted loft conversion staircase solutions.

Interested? Let’s work together.

Reach to us at 020 8158 4006 or write to us at support@telconstructions.co.uk.

Dormer Loft Conversion Ideas – Looking around for some best dormer loft conversion ideas for your new space? TEL Constructions brings you some inspiring and brilliant loft conversion designs for your next project. Shortlist and save the ones you love and share them with your loft conversion company for perfect execution. Let’s get started.

Best Dormer Loft Conversion Ideas

We have picked some of the best loft conversion designs from our portfolio that will provide you with all the ideas for your attic conversion.

1. Adding Dormer with Brick Veneer

This dormer loft conversion design idea features a bespoke dormer with glass windows and added brick veneer to the exterior walls. The beauty of this house lies in the choice of design and materials used.

2. Dormer Loft Conversion with Scones

This timeless loft conversion design features brickwork on the exteriors that are illuminated by lighting fixtures such as scones to amp up the curb appeal of the house.

3. Adding Two Dormers with Flat Roof

Loft conversion maximizes the natural light in the loft space by strategically placing windows that not only illuminate the space but provide beautiful views as well.

4. Convert your Loft into a Cozy Guest Bedroom

Struggling to accommodate guests in the room or looking for a new bedroom for your teenagers? Convert your loft to get an extra bedroom by undergoing dormer loft conversion for the much-needed space.

5. Create a Reading Corner

We all need a quiet and cosy reading corner where we can read our favourite books. This dormer loft conversion image features exactly what you need with skylights and the lamp illuminating the room perfectly.

6. Playroom for Kids

We understand your pain that kids need a good and safe space to play. Also, you need a dedicated area to store their toys, books, and other accessories as well. Converting the loft area into a kid’s playroom will make you stay sorted and happy.

7. Master Bedroom with an Ensuite

Adding a master bedroom with an attached ensuite adds to maximum value of the home. Use the space efficiently by converting the area beneath the stairs into storage space.

8. Stylish Roof Top Terrace with Dormer Loft Conversion

Yes, this is possible. Speak to your loft conversion professional regarding rooftop terrace creation. A perfect place for all your alfresco parties.

9. Bespoke Dormer Loft Conversion

For a semi-detached property like this, adding a dormer to the rear of the property dramatically increases the liveable space.

10. Dormer Loft Conversion with Dormer and Rooflight Windows

Unique and classy! We’re sure you must have exclaimed these reactions in your mind after glancing at this image. Here you get to enjoy the functionality of both dormer and roof light windows.

11. Adding Beautiful Dormers with Pitched Roof

If you are thinking multiple dormers are not possible, then this design proves that it’s possible. These dormers create good headroom in the loft area.

12. High End Dormer Conversion

This design is a perfect example of a dormer loft conversion on a detached property. The superbly crafted dormers and the glass windows have turned the entire house more appealing.

13. Family Room for Family Time

Want to spend more time with family, then don’t miss out on on this design idea for your loft conversion project. Comfortable couches, television and cosy lighting will make the place an ideal spot for family get-togethers.

14. Practical and functional home Office Space

We all want to have or work in an office which is away from the cacophony of everyday life, especially when you are working from home and have children around. This dormer loft conversion design offers you an ideal space to work.

15. Traditional and Classic Dormer Loft Conversion Design

This classic dormer loft conversion design incorporates half-timbering details that are placed on the exterior walls. This turns the entire structure sturdier and attention-grabbing.

16. Stained Glass Dormer for a Luxe Appeal

Looking for some inspiring and latest ideas for your dormer loft conversion? This design features stained glass windows incorporated into the dormer. Reach out to your loft conversion specialist for customization.

17. Eye-catching Green Roof System

Have a look at this amazing dormer loft conversion design that has a green roof system with skylights on the top. Turn it into a beautiful terrace garden.

18. Budget-Friendly decorative Window shutter on Dormer

Adding window shutters to your dormer windows is an excellent idea to give a traditional look with a sense of practicality.

19. Board and Batten for Vertical Cladding

If you to make your dormer loft conversion look subtle yet stylish, then save this design idea. This dormer loft conversion design comes with vertical cladding styles such as batten and board.

20. Small and Sturdy Study Room for Kids

Kids growing up and requiring their own separate study place? No need to extend your home when you undergo loft conversion. The study room in the loft would be quiet as well as offer your kids full privacy.

21. Design Idea Using Different Cladding for Dormer

This design is a classic example of using different cladding materials for your dormer roofs. You may need to seek planning permission as it is not covered in PD rights.

22. Cedar Shingles Makes Dormer More Attractive

Using Cedar Shingles for exterior cladding turns your new dormer space look stunning and long-lasting. Adding glass windows will ensure maximum sunlight into the space which keeps it illuminated all day long.

23. Dormer Idea in Stone Accent

Want to add a catchy accent to your dormer? Watch out for this classic design idea that showcases stone accents on exterior walls.

24. Walk-in Wardrobe in Dormer

Say goodbye to all those dressing hassles with this bespoke dormer loft conversion design. Add a beautiful walk-in wardrobe and a dressing area to your loft and keep your things sorted!

The Bottom Line

So these are the among the best or top picked dormer loft conversion ideas. Before you begin your project, you must be very clear about what sort of design you want and for what purpose you want to use the loft. Keeping these things clear will help you and your builder to work on a design that meets your desires and budget as well. Being a Reputed loft conversion company, TEL Constructions has delivered countless loft conversion projects in and across London. Did you love any of the designs shown above or looking for something else? Contact our designers today and we’ll make your dream come true.

If you’re undergoing a loft conversion, you need to comply with the building regulations irrespective of whether your project needs planning permission or not. Doesn’t matter if the attic space is big or small or whatever type of loft conversion you’re undertaking, you need to get approval from building regulations. Your loft conversion company, structural engineer or architect will help you prepare the structural specification plans and perform other calculations. This will ensure that your new loft conversion complies with the building regulations and that you get approval. Here’s everything you need to know about the building regulations for loft conversion in the UK.

Loft Conversion Building Regulations

Loft conversion building regulations are a set of regulations for the newly converted attic spaces or lofts that ensure structural stability, fire safety and health of all concerned. All the new buildings undergoing loft conversions are required to seek approval for building regulations to ensure:

• The new floor is structurally stable
• The stability of the new floor and foundations
• Fire escape and safety routes
• The new floor and the staircase safety design
• Proper sound insulation between the new loft space and the existing rooms

The Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, England is the department responsible for enforcement of Building Regulations for loft conversion. These regulations are applied to most of the buildings undergoing alterations as well as new buildings being constructed. There are a set of approved documents that offer general guidance to the constructions and design aspects of the building that are needed to comply with Building Regulations.

A much deeper level of detail needs to comply, so you need to hire a structural engineer, or your loft conversion builder will help. The project will be assessed by a local building control officer or any privately hired inspector. Approvals can be obtained by filing an application to the Local Council Building Control department. It is usually done by locally approved Inspectors. You won’t be able to sell the property (undergone loft conversion) if the property does not have approval from Building Regulations Department.

In Which Scenarios Do You Need to Submit Application for Building Regulation Approval?

1. Creating a Storage Space: If the purpose for converting your loft is to turn it into a storage space, you may need to seek building regulation approval. This is because the timber joists that act as the “floor” of the loft are not designed to support any significant weight, meaning that excessive weight can lead them beyond their capacity. So, you need building regulation to ensure their safety.
2. Creating a Functional Living Space: If the goal is to create a live-in space, you need to seek building regulation approval as part of your home. This is because loft conversions usually require a range of changes to be made which can affect the original structural integrity of the building so that both the house and its occupants are not at risk. If you are making just minor changes such as to access water tanks or for light storage, there is no need to file an application as long as it can be served with a retractable or portable loft ladder.

What do These Building Regulations Cover?

1. Building Regulations for Stairs: Certain building regulations for the loft stairs need to be followed:

• • Height and width: You can have a maximum of sixteen stairs for your loft. Though most of the homeowners keep it below 14. Also, there is no minimum limit on the width of the loft stairs, but most experts recommend it to keep it 600mm for accessing the loft perfectly.
  • Going and Rise: The length of the step is known as going and the distance between two steps (or, height) is called rise. The going should be between 223 mm and 320 mm. while the rise should be strictly between 150 mm and 220 mm.
  • Pitch of staircase: The angle or pitch of the staircase shall not be more than 42 degrees.
  • Headroom: The minimum headroom should be 2m and that shall stay constant throughout. It can be decreased to 1.8m for a sloping roof.
  • Single Rooms: For single rooms, space saving staircase with handrail on both sides.

2. Thermal Insulation: When you go for loft conversion, it is estimated that 25% of the heat gets lost through the loft roof. So, it becomes important to ensure proper insulation of the roof to attain maximum energy efficiency. There needs to be proper thermal insulation of a minimum U-value of 0.16W/m2K for a non-insulated roof. This can easily be achieved by giving mineral wool insulation of 250mm.

3. Fire Safety Regulations: Fire safety is one of the major concerns to ensure the safety of the newly converted loft. The existing loft doors need to be replaced by a fire door. This fire door should be able to resist the heat of the fire for a minimum of 20-30 minutes. This will give ample time for a person to escape. The loft conversion needs to have a smoke alarm and it should be connected to the mainline

4. Doors & Windows: The doors and windows should be in line with the fire safety regulations. They should be able to protect from the fire for a minimum of 20 minutes. Also, windows should be properly glazed to provide good thermal insulation. Also, if any window is overlooking a neighbour’s property it needs to have obscure glass to ensure privacy at both ends.

5. Roofing and walls: The walls and roofs should be well-insulated and fire safe. There should be a head height of at least 2.2m.

6. Electrics: You will be required to install new electrics for the loft conversion. For this, consult your builder or an accredited electrician to ensure electrical safety from all perspectives.

7. Drainage: When planning to add a bathroom to your new loft space, you need to consider the drainage as well as the waste disposal mechanism. For that, you may need to hire a good and certified plumber to do the tasks. The bathroom or other plumbing activities that need to be undertaken in the loft need to comply with document ‘H’ of the building regulations.

8. Floor Joists: If it’s a traditional loft or a loft that hasn’t been used as a living place, the ceiling joists may need to be inspected. It may happen that they are not suitable to be converted into the floor for the loft. There should also be an insulation of 100 mm between the joists to ensure adequate sound insulation.

9. Part Wall Act: If you’re living in a semi-detached or terraced property, then you may need to get a party wall agreement signed by your neighbours. This is to ensure that the common wall which will be altered is done with their consent. This will save you from many disputes as well.

10. Resistance to moisture and contaminants: This section of Building Regulations UK deals with site preparation to ensure that to avoid water ingress and moisture control on buildings. It also provides instructions to deal with contaminated land that’s due to the presence of harmful gases or hazardous substances.

11. Sound Insulation: This section deals with the sound insulation of the newly constructed loft space with respect to party walls. The homeowners may need to upgrade the walls (fully or partially) in case they are not up to the standards for the habitable space. The details are mentioned in Approved Document E that throws lights on sound insulation for both new dwellings as well as the buildings undergoing conversion to form dwellings. All the details pertaining to sound reduction, cancellation, and insulation in designated rooms in dwellings, rooms in residential purposes and acoustic conditions for common areas such as schools, flats etc are mentioned here.

12. Ventilation: Building regulations also lay down standards or proper ventilation across the new floor space and maintain the air quality of the building. Apart from that, it focuses on aiming for water efficiency as well as safety requirements for the hot water systems that go unvented.

13. Drainage and Waste Disposal: Various technical aspects and designs are mentioned that are required to comply to ensure proper rainwater drainage, foul drainage, sanitary pipework, wastewater treatment, cesspools, and discharges.

14. Electrical Safety: This section covers the installation, design, testing and inspection of all electrical installations. These regulations must be complied to prevent injuries from electrical fire-breakouts, burns, shocks etc that may happen due to overheating or arching of electrical components.

Is Building Regulation Approval required for loft conversion UK?

Whether you need planning permission for your loft conversion project or not, you are under an obligation to follow the relevant building regulations. Building regulations are critical because they ensure that any alteration is structurally stable and built to last as well as ensures that stairs and fire escape are planned and installed correctly. These regulations need to be complied and followed whether you want it to convert it to a storage space or a fully functional habitable space.

How to Apply?

If you are hiring a private inspector, then he does all the work, and you just need to sit back and relax. But, if you want to apply by yourself to local authority, an application needs to be filed. You will require a full plan application for a loft conversion which may take up to 8 weeks for final approval. For minor roof works or small alterations, speak to your builder about how to go about the process.

TEL Constructions is one of the leading loft conversion companies that has years of experience and rich expertise in renovation, extension, loft conversion and new building projects. All the projects delivered by us fully comply with building regulations. This is the reason we stand as the most preferred loft builders in London. Speak to us today or email us your details. Our experts will get back to you ASAP.

Growing family space needs making you worry?

Your compact home makes you consider the option of moving/shifting to a new one?

Wait for a second!

It’s more expensive to shift to a new house as it includes cost of buying plus the additional taxes.

Why not improve, rather than move?

It’s not only affordable, hassle -free and adds space but your little investment could drastically improve the property value as well!

Yes! Get inspired by these 10+ genius home space saving ideas to increase your home space without any need to shift or move.

Let’s dive in detail.

1. Porch Extension

Wondering if you can extend the front of your home? OfCourse you can!

Adding a porch to the front of your home is a perfect way to glam up your featureless frontage as well as adore a good indoor practical storage space.

It’s better consulting a home extension specialist in UK to a get a design that suits your original architecture and is built in proportion according to the size of home.

A well-considered design will help you maximize on the amount of daylight and enhance a good value to your property.

Porch extension is an incredible option that connects indoors with outdoors. It’s worth considering if the front door of your home opens directly into the living area.

The brick-built porch construction in UK may take up to 1-2 week’s time depending on the materials and size.

2. Rear Extension

Don’t have enough space in the front for creating a porch?

Don’t worry. Go for a rear home extension.

Work over the rear space that extends onto your garden and can easily be repurposed into an additional room.

A rear extension transforms your outdoor unused space to create more inside space. Depending on your requirements, the extension can be single or double storey.

Proper and right use of doors and windows won’t let you feel that you’ve given up on your garden space. They’ll keep your space airy, well-lit and gives an open feel.

Connect the best construction company in UK for the best quote for rear extension of your space.

3. Loft Conversion

Space constraints in both front and rear part of home?

Don’t want to compromise on your front and rear space?

Look up!

Yes! It’s your unused attic space.

Loft conversion is indeed one of the best home space saving ideas that transforms the dead, unused attic space into aesthetically appealing functional rooms.

Browse Google for best loft conversion companies near me and get hold of an opportunity to convert your space into a space of your choice.

Depending on the loft conversion you pot for, you can turn your loft space into:

• One bedroom or two bedrooms
• Master en-suite bedroom
• Playroom
• Guest room
• Home theater
• Gym
• Home Office
• Kids room

And much more!

Most of the loft conversion types fall under permitted developments and do not require any additional permission.

Though, you need to comply through the building regulations or other agreements to ensure that the structural integrity of your space is not compromised.

A loft conversion immediately adds to a minimum of 10-15% to your property which is worth every penny spent!

4. Basement Conversion

Not interested in changing the look-n-feel of your home? Then explore this home space saving option.

Having an unused basement space? Why not use it to add the much-desired extra space.

Well, this option may be a bit expensive but in high-value areas it may be turn out to be one of the best home space savers when no other option seems working.

Ideal for:

• Home office
• Home theater
• Guest room

So, plan you next get-together for your family or friends in your new basement, or give your teenager the desired privacy with his/her own personal room.

5. Side Extension

Living in a Georgian or Victorian era properties? They must be having side alleys that make side extension a bit easier and affordable.

These side alleys can be used to expand the width of the home.

Even if you don’t want to use alleyway, a side extension can help you add approximately 3m on an average to your space.

A side extension is a classic way that turns your claustrophobic, small kitchen into a spacious kitchen-diner that has plenty of room to host and cook.

6. Kitchen Extension

Today, the modern kitchens aren’t just the places to cook, but have eventually transformed into spaces for socializing, living, playing, doing homework etc.

In a nutshell, a kitchen is now a place where the life happens!

A kitchen extension is a perfect way to give a makeover to your awkward and cramped looking kitchen space.

You can use the side-return to extend the kitchen and make it look spacious.

Just a simple change of layout and feel the natural light pouring in and the contemporary appliances are like cherry on the top.

Contact the best kitchen extension company near you to turn your kitchen space into a multi-functional one. The experts will help you design a layout for an open-plan space that integrates all the sub-areas into one.

You can further use bi-folding, French or sliding doors to amplify the connection of the new kitchen extension to the garden.

7. Garage Conversion

As the cars have become bigger and bigger, garages are often taken as the dumping ground for excess items.

So, in case you don’t have the space and budget to extend the home space, transforming your garage into a living area can turn out to be most cost-effective way.

Things to consider before a garage conversion:

If the floor and walls of the garage are stable as well as the roof is waterproof, you can easily convert your garage into a habitable space.

But in case, the structure inside needs repair and isn’t integral, then building it from scratch (after demolishing) would be better than reworking on it.

The best thing about garage conversion is that you can do it yourself. Professionals take around 9-20 days to give a complete makeover to your garage.

8. Above-Garage room conversion

This is one of the best home space saving ideas that not only saves your ground space but offers a good return on investment over the property.

It’s advisable to reach out for a design expert in UK to know whether your structure is sound or not and can bear additional load.

Don’t want to compromise on your garden space? Then, going for above-garage room extension is an ideal pick. Building regulations will comply and you may need to seek permissions form local authority.

9. Orangery or Conservatory Home Extension

Looking for some natural home extension ideas that can blend well with the existing architecture of the home, then go for conservatory or an orangery.

You can choose between contemporary to period-style, as these are available in various guises and is indeed a cost-effective way to add space.

Advantages

• Let the natural light flood in
• Adds to home value
• Can easily be transformed to a living space such as tranquil lounge, home gym, dining area, cosy family room or a home office.
• Bespoke designs

10.  Sunrooms

Sunroom is just like a conservatory with the main objective to increase indoor space and let in ample amount of natural light.

The main advantage of sunroom is that it can be connected to home’s central heating as it is built as a part of home or is like a home extension.

These fantastic sunrooms can be converted into second living rooms or a cheerful dining room. They are usually made up of PVC or glass which further reduces the material cost.

Some additional space saving hacks to try

11. Garden Room

If you don’t score on space and there is no scope of home extension, then going for garden room could offer you a great solution.

You can easily convert it into your child’s play area, cinema room or even home office. You can use it for your small get-togethers to enjoy the weather.

12. Space-Saving Bespoke Furniture

Off-the-shelf furniture often creates problems if you try to decorate your home as it consumes unnecessary space.

Turning to tailor-made or bespoke furniture helps you save huge on your space plus create excellent storage opportunities.

13. Innovative Wardrobe Designs

A lot of space is wasted with free-standing wardrobes that come in pre-determined sizes.

Aside from looking out of place and stealing the spotlight from other valuable pieces of your interior decor, it eats up critical spaces that can be used for other purposes.

Bespoke or fitted wardrobes are designed according to the room size, dimensions and your requirements.

The exceptional feature of a fitted wardrobe is that it can create innovative storage from impossible places from the stair, corridor, high ceiling, to the bay area, to a sliding wardrobe by your bedside bed.

You can give them a look as per your style, taste and needs!

Winding up

These were some great and inspiring ways that help you increase your home space without any need to shift or move.

Whether you go for a home extension, Loft conversion, garage conversion or other options, do look out for best construction companies near you for the right advice and services.

You don’t have to break the bank to add additional space to your home, just check which of these hacks suits your requirements and Get Set Go!