Image credits: Grayskullduggery on Flickr – https://flic.kr/p/wqzEB
Sometimes, when you love the place you live so much, you do not want to move house when your family grows. That is why a loft conversion could be the answer to your dilemma. Let’s take a look at a few reasons why it is one of the most desirable home improvements today.
- They often cover the entire footprint of the house, so you could fit three or more bedrooms up there. That will increase the value of your home considerably.
- They do not take up any land.
- They are cheaper than a full home extension.
- They often do not require planning permission.
- They are quicker to build than a home extension.
You can see why they are fast becoming an extension of choice for many. But can you convert the loft yourself? In certain circumstances, yes, you can. You may need the help of professionals to carry out some of the work, but a competent DIY enthusiast can do a lot of it.
The Roof Structure
The roofs on old houses are different to those on modern homes, and there is much less structural timber. If you live in a house with a roof made with modern trusses, all is not lost. Marcus Roofing and any other trusted companies will be able to alter the structure, or provide a new roof; creating a huge space for your conversion.
The Conversion
You will need to follow an established procedure, so here is some advice.
- Install a staircase to give safe access to the attic. Remember, there may be children using it.
- Fit the wiring for lights and sockets. If there is to be another bathroom up there, include a circuit for an electric shower. Though an electrician must complete the final test and inspection, you can wire the loft yourself.
- The pipework must go in next. If there is no sewer pipe for you to connect a toilet, use a unit that macerates and pumps waste away through small bore pipes. You can fit them almost anywhere, and they have opened up many possibilities for home improvements.
- Insulate between the rafters with thermal panels that you cut and wedge into place. The loft will become warm in the summer if you do not insulate it well.
- When all of the first fix items are complete, put a floor down. Loft boards are a dense chipboard that has tongue and groove edges, so they slot together. Secure them with screws because nailing them could damage the plaster on the below ceilings.
- Build the wooden frames of the partition walls.
- Use plasterboards on the walls and skim it over with a coat of finishing plaster. Now you can see how the conversion is going to look when it is complete.
- Fit skirting boards, door frames, and doors.
- Carry out the second fix of the electrical items and plumbing.
Some people take months over the conversion after they have made alterations to the roof because they can do it in their spare time. It has little impact on the rest of the house after they have installed the staircase.
I hope I have convinced you; a loft conversion is the way to go. There is no negative aspect to the project, so what have you got to lose? Make your home better before the winter comes around, it will improve your life.
