Loft Conversion and Construction

Loft Conversion Process

Loft construction

A loft is converted according to building plans detailing work required.

Our professional tradesmen convert your loft according to the approved floor plans and to building regulations.

Once the loft conversion is approved (planning permission is rarely turned down unless existing roof shape is to change) construction may begin.

• Loft Stairs
• Loft Floors
• Loft Walls
• En Suite Bathroom

Loft Stairs

Staircase construction

Loft stairs must be a safe means of access to the loft, and each stairway is individually built as required.

A typical loft staircase construction fits between an existing wall and a purpose built partition stud wall with wiring installed for lighting.

A load bearing, stud partition wall supports the stair frame (strings) and steps; and the existing ceiling joists too once the ceiling aperture has been cut.

The stairs are built as a series of treads and risers, and any turns go around a newel post firmly bolted to the ceiling.

The stairwell and walls are plastered and finished so that handrails, balusters, door and lights and switches may be installed.

Loft Floors

Loft floor construction

Within the loft, existing joists are unsuitable being structurally week so a new floor is installed above the old.

Floors contain important electrical wiring and plumbing and preparation includes laying-out or 'first-fixing' the floor.

A perfectly level floor frame is constructed to take the floor joists, then Rockwool thermal insulation and electric radiant heating (if required) is installed.

A Buildings Inspector approves the work and the floor is sealed with using solid pine floorboards or hardwood flooring materials.

Loft Walls

Loft walls and Ceiling

The roof walls and ceiling of a loft conversion are frequently the same, following the roof line. Dormers have upright walls and horizontal ceilings.

Loft wall/ceilings contain skylight windows, rigid insulation board, electrical and control wiring, and occasionally radiant heating.

Loft windows are fitted, creating an aperture in the roof between rafters, fitting the window frame, flashings and relaying of the tiles; later shutters and blinds may be installed.

If windows require the removal of a rafter or two, plans indicate the roof support required.

Basic loft conversion

Knee wall and cupboards may be built into the bottom of the wall at this stage.

Insulation boards are installed between rafters and the ventilation requirements for area between roof and living area are checked. Heating pads and lighting fixtures are installed and the wall is plaster boarded and plastered ready for decoration.

Internal partition walls and end or party walls are constructed. These require a timber frame, insulation boards, hardboards and a plaster finish.

En Suite Bathroom

Many lofts have adequate space for a convenient en suite bathroom.

Generally en suites are positioned above an existing bathroom.

Power showers, sinks and toilets are available in styles and price ranges from economy, through leading brands, to modern designer and contemporary suites.

Finished Loft Room

Decorated loft conversion

The pictures show examples which illustrates a basic loft conversion.

The completed loft was originally an unused attic space above a terraced house which was quite small with a ceiling height that barely reached the minimum after the new floor installation.

Our design idea to enclose the stairs resulted in an increase in the space within the loft.

The loft features such as the wooden beams were cleaned and treated to enhance their appearance.

The loft walls, trimmings and skirting boards were decorated in white to add to the sense of a light, airy loft, and to contrast the brown wood beams on either side.

A TV sits on the ledge developed from the top of the stairs (ceiling), an added feature our client appreciates.

We are expert at progressing loft ideas to completed loft conversions.

With sketches and explanation we will be able to demonstrate the unique potential of your loft as a functioning office or study, bedroom, lounge, or storage space.

Top Floor Plans Stairs