If you are looking for ways to improve your home, loft conversion can be one of them. Loft conversion cost in the UK often depends on a wide range of factors. The loft conversion itself is typically dictated by the needs of the homeowner and the available space their home has to offer.
The cost of a loft conversion depends on different factors
By types of conversion, a Velux loft conversion is the most affordable, costing about £15,000 - £20,000. The average costs of Hip to Gable and Dormer loft conversions are much more with figures as high as £30,000 - £65,000. The most expensive type of loft conversion, the Mansard and L-shaped loft conversion, can reach upwards of £70,000 or more.
What is included in the price?
And while there are many mitigating factors that can affect loft conversion cost, project management is the most expensive component and it can represent 20% of the total loft conversion costs. Roof coverings are another major cost component, which can be equal to 15% of the project cost. Joinery (excluding staircase), steelwork for structural support, roof structure improvements, and scaffolding can be between 7 and 10% of the total costs each. Other minor cost components are internal preparations, electricity, staircase, plastering, and final paint and decor.
Larger Loft Conversion Projects
Loft conversions can be much more expensive if the project lasts longer than expected. With three workers, a Velux loft conversion project should take about 4–6 weeks from the time you submit the planning application. Hip to Gable and Dormer loft conversions typically take about 6–8 weeks each. Because Mansard loft conversion is complicated, the project could last for about 9 weeks. There are many other aspects that can factor into the price of your loft conversion as well as the time required to complete it. If you add a bathroom and sizeable built-in storage, you can add another £15,000 to the total project cost.
Importance of the Structural Solution
Masonry, joists, and structural beams are non-negotiable parts of the converted loft, so you need to take their costs into account. The builder usually has some basic designs that you can choose and modify. However, except for very simple conversions, it is usually not wise to rely only on the contractor structural design. You may wish to hire a structural engineer who can set up a more detailed design and each design may cost you about £1,500.
If you are planning a Mansard loft conversion, the cost for hiring an architect is relatively negligible and you will get an optimum design. If your house has a traditional roof construction, the dormer loft conversion project can be less expensive as some of the structure can be re-utilised. However for roof with trusses construction it is generally more expensive to convert as the entire truss structure will require replacing. If you own a timber frame property, usually the structural costs are prohibitive due to the difficulties of adding an extra storey on a timber frame structure. Therefore owners of timber frame construction might want to consult with an engineer in the first place, to check the feasibility of their project.
Contact Knowledgeable and Reliable Experts
When searching online for experts near you, be sure to choose ones that are knowledgeable and experienced and can walk you through the design and build process. The next important thing is to choose reliable expert, so the process of your loft conversion will go smoothly. To find experienced and reliable experts, visit Expert Plans online today and find a local home design expert who can answer any questions you might have.
Whether you need help with your loft conversion, home extension or just need to find out about the cost of your project, Expert Plans help you get started in no time, shortlisting the best, most reliable expert near you! Check out our platform and find the right expert for your project.