Loft conversion roof pitch: Low Pitch Loft Conversions | Touchstone Lofts
Low Pitch Loft Conversions | Touchstone Lofts
Using our skills and expertise, we can often find solutions to convert lofts where there is very little headroom available. It’s important that the conversion still complies with building regulations, and that you have a practical, usable space at the end of the process. This is why you need to work with a loft conversion company like us – we are experts in our field and can find innovative ways to maximise your loft space.
Want to know more about low pitch roof loft conversions? Contact our team to discuss your options and find out how we can help you.
Call 0800 881 8194
Low pitch roof loft conversions – what solutions can we offer?
We focus on offering solutions that are as simple as possible, with minimal building work and the most minor structural alterations. This keeps the cost down and shortens the length of the build, making low pitch roof loft conversions available to most homeowners.
If you need a more drastic solution, there’s the option to raise the ridge or lower the existing ceilings. However, these require major works and we will always try our very best to offer other solutions first. In the vast majority of cases, we can find a way to make your loft conversion work. And for many types of conversion, you won’t even require planning permission.
How much does a low pitch roof loft conversion cost?
How long will it take to build?
Prices for simple loft conversions start from around £24,000. A low pitch roof loft conversion may cost more, depending on the structural alterations that are needed.
Talk to our team and find out exactly what’s possible with your loft. We offer free design appointments, worth £600 – they’re the perfect way to talk to a qualified surveyor, who will visit your property, assess your space and draw up architectural designs. This appointment doesn’t mean you have any obligation to go ahead with a conversion, so you’ve got nothing to lose.
We use facts, not sales techniques.
Book your free architectural design appointment.
What kinds of loft conversion can we build with a low pitch?
These are the main types of loft conversions available to you if you have a low roof pitch:
Dormer loft conversions
a dormer-box structure is added to the roof, where the walls are at a 90° angle to the floor. This can be a great way to add headroom.
Hip to gable loft conversions
the hip of a sloping roof is turned into a gable end and the ridge is extended, creating space for a loft conversion.
Rooflight or Velux loft conversions
there’s no need for extensive building work. Rooflight or Velux loft conversions use the space you have.
Trussed roof loft conversions
trussed roofs that are supported with wooden beams can still be converted. You just need a specialist loft conversion company like us.
L-shaped dormer loft conversions
an L-shaped loft conversion uses two dormers, which are joined together to form the distinctive L shape.
Mansard dormer loft conversions
mansard dormer loft conversions have a 72° wall, making them feel more like an additional storey than a loft room.
The type of loft conversion we can complete will depend entirely on your roof and your loft. Our surveyor will be able to give you further details and let you know about all the possible options.
Be inspired
See some of the options that can help you personalise your loft space:
Low pitch roof loft conversion
– before and after
BEFORE
AFTER
Low pitched roof loft conversion on a semi-detached house.
Contact Touchstone Lofts
Since 1989, we have converted lofts all over England and the South East, including London, Essex, Surrey, Kent, Sussex, Hertfordshire, Berkshire, Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Hampshire, Oxfordshire, the West Midlands, Warwickshire, Staffordshire, Leicestershire, and Northamptonshire.
To find out how a loft conversion can transform your property, call 0800 881 8194.
is yours suitable for a loft conversion? – The Loft Room
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As families grow and accumulate more possessions over the years, a once perfectly adequate-sized home can quickly become cramped. And when facing the expense and hassle of finding a new house and the prospect of uprooting your life for a little extra space, a conversion project is a no-brainer.
A loft conversion is one of the most popular types of property extension. Often completed in a matter of weeks and offering an attractive return on investment, it is no surprise that many people choose a loft conversion over moving house.
But as with any renovation project, there are some things to assess before getting started. First and foremost, it is crucial to ensure your roof can accommodate and support an extra room. A combination of criteria will determine whether your roof is suitable for a loft conversion, such as head height, roof pitch, roof structure and pre-existing obstacles.
So, what are the primary considerations for determining this suitability — and what can be done to achieve the extra space you desire?
Reaching new heights
Building regulations say that a roof must be at least 2.
2 metres in height from the top of the ceiling joists to the bottom of the rafters to allow for practical headroom after insulation and internal ceilings. Without this space, your new room would be uncomfortable and impractical, negating the point of the loft conversion in the first place.
So, if your roof does not have the required height, is it game over? Not necessarily. There are things you can do to create more loft height. If your ceiling is only just shy of what is required, contractors may be able to shave off a few inches by fitting thinner modern insulation for more space and thermal efficiency.
If the difference required is more significant, raising the roof is a standard solution, which involves removing and redesigning some or all of the existing roof to add more headroom — a rear dormer extension would use this strategy, for example. However, you will need to get planning permission if this solution is required.
Achieving the perfect pitch
Roof pitch describes the slope of a roof.
Getting the roof’s pitch correct is an integral part of property design, balancing aesthetic appeal with proper structural support and protection from the elements.
The pitch of your roof will depend on the style of property you own. For example, more traditional Victorian homes tend to have steeper roofs than ones built in the 20th century. Ideally, a roof should have a pitch of 30 degrees to accommodate an effective loft conversion.
The lower the pitch is, the lower the head height will be in the centre of the room. Inside your new loft conversion, the angle of the roof will impact the amount of usable floor space. So, you need to make sure you have enough headroom to walk around comfortably and that there will be enough functional space after installing staircase access to your new room.
Reinforcing structural support
Again, the structure of a roof varies depending on the style of the property. Traditional frames, most common in pre-1960s houses, are often suitable for conversion because they usually have rafters that run along the roof’s edges and provide ample space for development.
Alternatively, trussed roofs feature a ‘W’ shaped support system that takes up loft space and may make a conversion more complicated. Contractors can usually get around this issue by installing steel beams across the length of the floor to take the load off the roof.
Instead, you may opt to replace your roof to improve the structure and support the extra weight on your property’s foundations. In that case, you may also want to consider retiling your new roof as part of the conversion. Doing so can improve the way it looks from the road, improve insulation and prevent leaks, making your new loft room even more comfortable.
Addressing every obstacle
You might have a decent amount of attic space, but what is already up there? Whether you are embarking on a complete Mansard loft conversion to create maximum space or simply transforming your loft into a usable room with natural light using Velux windows, homeowners, designers and contractors must think about the practicality of the solution.
Many homes store water tanks or central heating systems in the loft — not exactly in keeping with the luxurious new room you are aiming to create. Plus, some houses will have a chimney stack that passes through the loft, further restricting the amount of usable space.
However, these things are often manageable with the appropriate planning and expertise. For example, you can maximise the space at your disposal by extending ceiling height and switching to a combi boiler with an extension vessel to supply hot water to the house through a more compact, sealed system.
Are you ready to set the gears in motion for your own loft conversion project? Our team of specialists are here to advise you at every step to help bring your ideas to life. Get in touch today to discuss the best option for your home.
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Nest under the roof: how to convert a country attic into an attic
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ru/20170608/408658458.html furnish a loft in the attic – Real Estate RIA Novosti, 06/13/2017
Nest under the roof: how to convert a country attic into an attic
. Experts told the RIA Real Estate website how to turn it into an attic floor.
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practical advice – ria real estate, useful, suburban real estate, construction
Practical advice – RIA Real Estate, Useful, Country real estate, Construction
If the country house has become cramped, then you can expand it, without resorting to the construction of extensions, but simply by opening hidden reserves – for example, an attic.
Experts told the RIA Real Estate website how to turn it into an attic floor.
Inspection and preparation
First you need to determine whether it is possible in principle to turn the attic into an attic. This may be prevented by a number of circumstances.
First of all, experts from the law firm Tenzor Consulting Group warn, a large-scale alteration is regarded by law as a reconstruction requiring approval, and this applies to both residential buildings and summer cottages.
However, Andrey Lyamin-Borodin, CEO of the Rewedo.ru repair ordering Internet service, clarifies that in some cases you can do without approvals or get them “with little bloodshed”. At the same time, he continues, in cities it will be harder to do this than outside their borders – the process will be long and costly. In a rural settlement and, moreover, in the territory outside the boundaries of settlements, there should not be any special problems.
Reconstruction refers to such actions, the results of which change the parameters of the capital construction object (height, number of floors, area, volume), the supporting structures are replaced (clause 14 of article 1 of the Urban Planning Code).
If the conversion of the attic into an attic fits into these parameters, then it will have to be coordinated. Without approval, it is possible to insulate the roof, but it is advisable not to cut through the windows.
As a general rule, the approval of the reconstruction of the house takes place in the local government at the location of the land. If we are talking about a country house, then before March 1, 2018, changes in it can be registered under the “dacha amnesty” – in the event that a full reconstruction was carried out and the number of storeys near the house changed.
In addition to legal subtleties, there are also technical ones. So, Sergey Vasyankin, construction director of the Dachny Sezon company, notes that often, due to the design features of the house, it is simply impossible to equip an attic there, since the attic is too low there. According to him, there is an opportunity for arranging an attic only where the height of the attic is from 1.8 meters and above.
This problem can be solved by changing the truss structure, Lyamin-Borodin argues, but the cost of implementation will increase significantly from this. It is better not to make a horizontal ceiling, leaving an acute angle, or to place functional rooms in the future attic that are less demanding on the height of the ceiling – a nursery or a bedroom.
Life under the roof: 8 interesting ideas for decorating the attic
July 15, 2015, 12:10
In addition, Lyamin-Borodin adds, an attic cannot be made if the supporting structures of the house cannot withstand it. It is possible, but problematic – when, due to the design of the roof, there are a lot of racks and braces in the attic – in such an attic it will be difficult to plan the interior due to the stockade of racks and, perhaps, it will be inconvenient to live.
If large-scale changes are planned, then specialists from the construction company should be invited to check the supporting structures. Ideally, they should also draft future changes.
Warm and even warmer
If it is technically possible to arrange an attic, you need to decide whether it will be “warm” (that is, heated) or “cold”. Of course, such a choice is only for those whose house is basically heated.
The simplest solution for attic heating is electric batteries and infrared heaters, advises Lyamin-Borodin. These are easy-to-use, mobile, relatively inexpensive devices that usually do not require installation (with the exception of certain types of infrared heaters).
The capital solution is to cut into the existing heating system, but first you need to check how much power the boiler is designed for and whether it can handle the extra volume, he adds.
Another option for heating a room is underfloor heating: water (again, if the boiler power allows), or electric, Lyamin-Borodin notes. They heat the room well, while distributing heat more favorably, unlike radiators – heat is concentrated at the height of human growth from the floor, and does not rise up.
Both electric and water heated floors can be installed in a wooden house with wooden floors. Electric cable floors or cable floors on mats are easier to install, but later they will turn out to be more expensive to operate due to the consumption of electricity. Water floors with more expensive and complicated installation (in a wooden house it is necessary to use a dry flooring method, without a cement-sand screed) are more economical in operation.
Remodeling details
Regardless of whether the attic is heated or not, it must be insulated. It is better to do this with mineral wool insulation, advises Lyamin-Borodin, since it is not combustible. For residential buildings, you need to choose a thickness of 150 millimeters or more, depending on the temperature and humidity conditions. It is mandatory to install a vapor barrier between the insulation and the living space. Floor insulation makes sense only for sound insulation, the expert adds.
For finishing, it is better to choose lining or imitation of timber, recommends Vasyankin.
These materials look great, especially when properly dyed. Due to improper insulation and heating of the attic, the temperature and humidity conditions of the room may be disturbed, which may adversely affect the structural and decorative elements of the attic. The most common example is fungus and mold, he adds.
Dacha in a sheepskin coat: how to properly insulate a country house for the winter
October 28, 2015, 14:50
It is possible that the project will require strengthening of floors, its need is determined based on the calculation of loads in the project, warns Lyamin-Borodin. Reinforcing the floor in an existing home can be not only difficult, but often very costly, as homeowners will likely have to remove a lot of things to install additional floor beams, Vasyankin adds.
Often there are no walls in attics in which classical windows can be cut, so it is likely that attic windows will have to be installed, Vasyankin argues. However, skylights in the roof plane will cost more and can cause leaks, especially in the case of metal roofing, warns Lyamin-Borodin.
In his opinion, the easiest and cheapest option is to cut windows in the gable, if possible.
In any case, if initially there were no windows in the attic, their cutting will be considered a reconstruction, that is, the entire project will require coordination, so those who have a window in the attic initially will be in a better position.
Stairs to the attic are usually placed in halls and corridors, as in other rooms it can create inconvenience, the expert continues.
The configuration of the stairs depends on the availability of space in the house, since its organization requires a fairly large area, notes Lyamin-Borodin. Proceed from the fact that a comfortable staircase slope of 30-40 degrees will provide a step depth (tread) of 25, in extreme cases – 20 centimeters, height – 15 centimeters.
The height of the ceiling above the stairs at each point must be at least two meters, the width of the stairs must be at least one meter. The ladder can be wrapped around the axis, but in conditions of lack of space, the easiest summer option is a ladder, he concludes.
Roof reconstruction: rules, photos before and after
Roof reconstruction is a set of works aimed at restoring the integrity of the structure and / or changing its configuration. Such events can no longer be called a major overhaul. A full building process is required.
In the process of repairing roofing, leaks are eliminated, local damage to materials is corrected, and worn-out elements are replaced. Reconstruction implies more serious changes to the system:
- replacement or strengthening of the truss system;
- change of thickness or type of insulation;
- increasing or decreasing the angle of inclination of the slopes;
- dismantling of a pitched roof and installation of a flat one;
- making a usable roof;
- complete alteration of the roof structure as a result of violation of construction technology, etc.
When reconstruction is necessary
Roof reconstruction is carried out for various reasons.
If the installation technology is violated, then the residents are worried about condensate, frequent leaks, and the appearance of fungi in the roof structure. Sometimes owners decide to change the roof to give the house a different architectural look. Reconstruction of the roof is required for the installation of a residential attic with windows, the creation of light tunnels, etc. One of the common reasons for repairs is the wear of the roof during operation. All roof reconstruction works are classified as complex. Need a professional project, special equipment. Special equipment is used to work on tall buildings. Reconstruction should be carried out by a team of qualified roofers who can provide quality assurance.
Beginning with an examination
Before starting work, it is necessary to invite an expert to inspect the roof. He will assess the technical condition of the roof from the inside and outside, determine the characteristics of the underlying layers. Based on the results of the examination, a project for the reconstruction of the roof is prepared and an estimate is made.
Professional documentation is the key to quality work. In the project, not only drawings are prepared, but also accurate calculations are performed. For example, the owner decided to replace the flexible covering with natural tiles. In order for the truss system to withstand the weight of the new roof, it will be necessary to calculate the bearing capacity of the structure and provide for its strengthening or replacement. And the reverse situation: the dismantling of slate and laying shingles. In this case, a continuous crate is required, which requires the calculation of materials and additional investments.
Reconstruction technology
Works on changing the roof structure are carried out in two ways:
- completely dismantle the old system and build a new one;
- stage by stage reconstruct one slope after another.
Complete dismantling is the most convenient way. It is easier for builders to work with tools and materials when there are no unnecessary structures on the roof.
But this is possible only in clear, dry weather. You need to choose several days in a row in the summer with a favorable forecast, otherwise the house will flood in the rain. An awning can be used to protect against precipitation, but it creates additional inconvenience. Therefore, professional roofers, whenever possible, resort to the technology of phased reconstruction of slopes.
Choice of insulation
Since the reconstruction of the roof in most cases is accompanied by a change in the characteristics of the thermal insulation layer, it is important to choose the right materials.
Roof insulation must have the following properties:
- have a low weight to reduce the load on the supporting structures;
- have good vapor permeability;
- have low flammability or non-flammability;
- be environmentally friendly.
Most often, mineral wool and similar materials are used for roof reconstruction. Rigid insulation can also be used, subject to certain building rules.
Features and nuances of roof reconstruction
On flat roofs, it is important to observe a slope of 1.5% so that rain and melt water flows into the receiving funnel and does not form puddles on the surface. This will significantly increase the life of the coating. The slope is created using wedge-shaped heat-insulating plates or crates. If the roof was previously insulated, and the project provides for an increase in the thickness of the thermal insulation, then the existing unspoiled material can be left. Replace damaged elements and mount an additional layer. If it is decided to arrange a pitched roof in place of a flat roof, then it is not always necessary to disassemble the old structures. In some cases, it is possible to build a truss system directly on top of the existing one. The need and possibility of roof reconstruction is determined only by a specialist. The master will calculate the possible costs, find the best technical solutions. In complex matters, you should not save on the services of professionals.
Examples of work
An illustrative example of roof reconstruction “before” and “after” is the installation of a living room in a cold attic. To make an attic in a house with an uninsulated roof, you will need to perform a wide range of work. The roof structure provides a gap for natural ventilation. This is important for the preservation of insulation and the creation of a comfortable microclimate in the attic. Renovation of this type requires financial investments, but it allows you to increase the living space of the house at a relatively low cost.
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