This article takes a look at the reasons why a loft conversion is the best way to add living space to a home.
You and your partner probably love your home and have never considered relocating, why move from a place you love? That said, a growing family requires more space and there will come a day when you have no choice but to extend.
Various Ways To Add Living Space
There are a few ways that you can increase your living space:
- Bricks & Mortar Extension – Typically on the rear of the property, a single or 2-storey addition that blends with the house.
- Loft Conversion – This utilises the empty space in your roof. Talk to one of the builders that handle loft conversion Cyprus projects and find out the cost.
- Stand-Alone Modular Unit – Old sea containers can be converted into nice living accommodation; all you need to do is prepare a concrete base and the unit is delivered and placed on the base, ready for utility connections.
Benefits Of A Loft Conversion
There are many compelling reasons to choose a loft conversion:
- Low Cost – The shell is already in place.
- No Planning Permission – You do not have to extend the building perimeters, therefore you do not require approval from the local authority.
- Boost Property Value – A loft conversion is much like an extra room and this is reflected when you have the property valued after project completion.
There are many ways you can use this new space, it could be another bedroom, a home office, or even a study room for the kids, whatever you want to use the loft for.
Major Features
Every loft conversion needs access, which is usually in the form of drop-down steps, while you will need at least 2 skylights to let in natural lighting. You must create an airflow by installing bi-directional fans at either end, which can be adjusted to provide good ventilation and airflow. You could add a large bay window, although this might require planning permission. Consider soundproofing with foam panels you stick to the walls.
Chipboard Or Plywood Flooring
One of the first jobs is to remove the fibreglass insulation and create a floor using chipboard or plywood, which gives you practical space in which to work. The flooring should butt up to all obstacles and with a foam backing, carpet tiles can be installed when the job is done. Pipes should be encased in timber, as should electric cables and other items. If you have a water tank, this needs cladding in timber, with a small hatch to access controls.
Insulation
Remove the loft insulation; you no longer wish to stop the heat from rising into the roof and new insulation material is fitted behind the timber or plasterboard ceiling. The same goes for the walls; fit studs and nail precut pieces of plywood to create walls, with the insulation material behind. This is, of course, assuming you are in a cold climate; tropical regions would not require the same level of insulation.
Choosing A Contractor
Look for a local small builder with extensive loft conversion experience and ask him to visit you and measure up the attic. Give him a few days and he would present you with his proposal and quote. This would be an all-inclusive price, with electrical and plumbing included and should you be in agreement, a timeline can be established. Make sure the builder is associated with federations and associations and check out any online reviews you can find. Google is your best friend!
If you have the budget and you’re ready to go, search online for a Cyprus loft conversion specialist and create more space for your growing family.