Loft conversions Glossary of Terms

At Absolute Lofts we know that there are many various terms related to loft conversion that you may not be familiar with. So we have created this page with a glossary of the common terms with a short explanation which you can hopefully understand and gain a understand and feel comfortable with the use of these key words.

• Loft Conversion
• Planning Applications
• Local Authority Building Inspectors
• Feasibility Study
• Dormer Loft Conversion
• Hip to Gable Loft Conversion
• Mansard Loft Conversion
• Velux Loft Conversion
• Velux
• Party Wall
• Minimum Height
• Space Saver Staircase
• A Full Conversion
• A Shell Conversion

Loft Conversion

A loft conversion is the process of converting empty roof space into a fully functional area. Therefore this allows you to maximise existing space and extend your living area easily and with minimal cost. Due to various benefits loft conversions are highly popular, in fact one of the most popular forms of home improvement throughout UK.

Planning applications

It is a legal requirement for you to have planning permission within the UK in order for you to be allowed to build on land, or even change the use of land or buildings situated on the land. Therefore, you are required to be granted permission by the building regulations authority for a loft conversion. The idea behind this is aimed at ensuring building work is completed to a acceptable standard within the new construction.

Local authority building inspectors

Once the loft conversion is complete, building inspectors from your local council will have to inspect the work that has been carried out. They inspect the work to make sure that the standard of work meets building regulations standards. If the work is judged to have met the regulations then they will fill out a certificate which states your conversion has meet the specified regulations.

Feasibility Study

A feasibility study is how you are able to decided upon the most effective and efficient way of carrying out the loft conversion. This includes a highly qualified surveyor visiting your property to inspect your roof space, and will discuss certain issues with you that may arise.

Dormer Loft Conversion

A dormer loft conversion is an extension to the existing roof, that projects vertically from a sloping roof, creating additional floor space and headroom within the building. A dormer conversion is the most common type of loft conversion.

Hip to Gable Loft Conversion

A hip to gable loft conversion is where you change the sloping side of your property, the "hipped side", to a flat gable end. This therefore creates a much larger loft space.

Mansard Loft Conversion

A Mansard Loft Conversion is similar to a dormer conversion. A mansard loft conversion is a dormer loft conversion which is built on a flat roof, with a inwards sloping front wall of around 70 degrees.

Velux Loft Conversion

A velux loft conversion is where the roof structure is unaltered and (velux) windows are fitted flush into the roof line. A room is then created in the existing loft space.

Velux

Velux is the brand name for the leading manufacturer of roof and loft windows, skylights and sun tunnels. Velux have over 60 years experience of making these products. Velux products are available to purchase in a wide range of designs and styles; with some of their ranges of windows allowing you to control them electronically.

Party Wall

If you live in either a semi detached or terraced property then your property has a party wall. The wall between your house and your neighbours is called the party wall.

Minimum Height

In the building regulations it is specified that the minimum height is two meters, from the top of the stairs.

Space Saver Staircase

Space saver staircase's are very popular for loft conversions, where space is often limited. A space saver staircase is a staircase with alternating treads, this allows you to get up a flight of stairs in approximately half the distance it would take you to get up a normal flight of stairs.

A Full Conversion

A full conversion will includes:

• Discussion with planning team
• Contact details for client to review previous project
• Supply requirements
• Architectural survey
• Drawings of architectural drawings plans received
• Council approves the drawings / plans, conversion is ready to be started
• Inform neighbours that you're about to start a loft conversion
• Scaffolding is assembled and materials and equipment will be delivered to your house
• One final check will be carried out on your new conversion
• Your new, stylish, loft conversion is complete, with a 10 year guarantee.

A shell conversion

A shell conversion, part build will include as much of the following as required:

• Technical Survey, Plans and Design
• Design and Full Drawings complying to Building Regulations
• Floor, Structural Work for Stud Walls, etc
• Window(s), Roof Work, External Furnishings