Tuesday, August 6, 2013

Loft Conversions Offer Cost-Effective Additional Living Room

Loft Conversions Offer Cost-Effective Additional Living Room

By Simon Anderson


As family numbers grow, there may be a need for more living space. Loft conversions are a cost-effective solution to this problem, and are very popular as a result. They obviate the need to move and can provide a reasonable amount of extra space, while you can tailor a conversion to suit your pocket.

This means there is no requirement to sell an existing house in order to purchase a larger, resulting in a considerable saving. Apart from the difficult of achieving this, there are no fees or commissions involved when converting and no need to relocate from familiar surroundings. An additional room is often all that is really needed, anyway.

New regulations pertaining to such a conversion have recently been promulgated and you would need to find out what restrictions apply to your situation. Only certain properties are permitted these extensions and the regulations cover the permitted size of conversion and aspects such as strengthening the joists and glazing of windows. Planning permission is not usually needed in the UK.

An increase in the size of your family is not the only reason to wish to extend: Many people telecommute or run a business from home as well. Whatever your reasons are, a room in the attic can be quite flexible in use and can be adapted to meet changing needs. You could even consider incorporating a shower cubicle if space permits and you foresee a need.

This is a feasible project for a do-it-yourselfer, and there are many homeowners who have undertaken the job with success. As long as you have access to the necessary equipment and work carefully according to a plan, you should experience no difficulties. However, making an amateurish job of it is not advisable, as this could actually reduce the appeal and value of your home.

It is a good idea to at least get a quote from experienced converters. You might then find it is not worth doing the work yourself, especially when the time required is factored in. These quotes are normally free, and you should be able to get advice at the same time as to the planning requirements and other aspects. Having it professionally done is usually the best option, especially if you need finance to realize your dream.

In the past such a conversion was often rather unappealing and makeshift. Nowadays it has become the province of interior designers, and can add space and light to a home. Properly done with good insulation, it can also increase the thermal efficiency of your home and cut heating bills. A good design will increase the value of your house, once values have risen again.

For those who might have need for more space in their homes, it is definitely worth considering the options available with loft conversions. They are a cost-effective and time-saving alternative, and may currently be the only practical solution. Those who take the plunge are bound to be pleased with the results and all the benefits which can accrue with a properly-executed, modern, design.




About the Author:



Share This

No comments:

Post a Comment

Designed By Blogger Templates