Traditional frame type roof structures are often the most suitable type for loft conversions allowing the space to be opened up relatively easily and inexpensively.
Loft extension roof types.
The rafters may need to be strengthened or additional supports added your structural engineer will advise on what is required.
There are three basic types of structural alterations.
This type of roof is most popular in loft conversions providing an easy way of expanding the space and natural light in the converted loft room.
A flat roof is then built to meet the vertical wall in order to give maximum headroom in the loft extension.
The roof structure is altered at the sides or rear of the house to add a large flat roofed box dormer.
Roof light dormer hip to gable and mansard.
A loft apartment on the other hand refers to a large adaptable open space often a former industrial building or other type of space converted for residential use.
This is a structural extension which projects vertically from the slope of the existing roof creating a box shape.
A velux type loft conversion works very well for lofts where there is a good amount of headroom or if there are constraints on planning l shaped dormer the l shaped dormer loft conversion is also very popular and is often considered the best way to extend a mid terrace period property to maximise space.
Rooflight loft conversions require the least amount of structural work to the existing space and are therefore the most cost effective.
The most popular type of loft conversion is a simple flat roof dormer.
The only changes made are the addition of windows.
Whilst a felted flat roof is quick easy and cheap you run the risk of leaks and the roof has a reduced lifespan compared with a pitched roof typically 10 15 years compared to 20 30 years or more for pitched.
The term loft is generally used to describe an upper storey or attic in a building in other words the space directly under the roof.
A very popular choice because of its affordability and simplicity the flat roof offers an easy solution to roofing your extension.
Which type of loft conversion should i go for.
The one you choose is likely to be determined by a number of factors including the type and age of house you live in and your budget.
A dormer is a structural extension which builds vertically from the slope of a roof with a box shape result.
Dormer loft conversions are the most popular option as they are the easiest way to add light and an increased amount of roof space with full headroom.
Dormer loft conversion this type is also known as a simple flat roof dormer and is the most popular of the attic conversions.
Most common type of loft conversion can also be gable fronted or hipped roofed.
A felted flat roof is easily insulated and it can work in almost any shaped extension.