21 Mar Exploring the Difference Between Dormer and Velux Loft Conversions

Velux VS Dormer Conversions

If you’re considering a loft conversion, you’re likely immediately wondering whether dormer loft conversions or velux loft conversions offer the best benefits for your project.

If you’re wondering ‘which conversion type do I need?’, you’re in the right place. We’ll go through the difference between dormer and velux loft conversions in this blog, because each offers specific pros and cons, and one or the other might be more appropriate, or available, for your project.

JBS Lofts are the leading, accredited loft conversion company covering both the Bath and Bristol areas. With over 15 years of experience to offer, the dedicated and highly qualified team at JBS Lofts are on-hand to help you to determine which loft conversion solution is most suitable for the structure and type of property in question, as well as the purpose of the prospective room you wish to convert. Interested in finding out more? Why not head over to our website today where you will be able to find out more about us and the quality, affordable services we have to offer.

Dormer vs Velux Loft Conversions

Loft conversions are an ideal way of making use of that unused space that sits on the top of your property. Although many people use their loft space for storage, investing in a loft conversion is perfect for increasing the size and value of your home, and there’s no reason you can’t include clever storage solutions. 

So you’ve taken the first step, deciding that a loft conversion would be a good idea…then you have to determine which loft conversion is right for you and your property. You may be under some local restrictions which impede your choice, or you might just find that one solution will vastly suit your needs.

Here at JBS Lofts we offer both dormer and velux loft conversions, and of course, each comes with their own pros, and cons. That is why we have taken the time to break down each of their characteristics, in order to help you gain a better understanding of which of our loft conversions is better suited in your situation.

What is a velux loft conversion?

A Velux conversion consists of installing Velux skylight windows into your existing roof structure (as well as completing any boarding out and insulation), to create a habitable room in your roof space. A Velux window or several are positioned in the roof to maximise natural light and ventilation. Most Velux loft conversions will entail adding a staircase, insulation and electricity, as well as plumbing in some circumstances. 

Velux loft conversions are usually the more affordable option, especially for property types such as terraced or in some cases detached homes too. Simply using the space you have without any external alterations makes Velux conversions more budget-friendly too, and they can also be completed in as little as five weeks, from start to finish.

Benefits of Velux loft conversions

• High ROI

Velux loft conversions almost always provide a high Return on Investment (ROI). Adding a bedroom, usually, can increase the value of your home by 20-25%, and usually entails a smaller investment for the conversion. 

• Less subject to restrictions

Rooflight loft conversions are less likely to be subject to planning permission. If you live in a Conservation Area or in a Listed building however, you will still likely have to gain approval before you take any steps towards your conversion.

• Quick

The speed at which a Velux loft conversion can take place is a major benefit. Whilst building works inside the home are always invasive, a Velux conversion can take only 4-6 weeks in total, whereas some dormer or other types of conversion can take 8-12 weeks, or even longer.

What is a dormer loft conversion?

Dormer loft conversions are particularly suited to semi-detached properties, and those with a hipped roof. A dormer loft conversion makes the most of the space available; although it can sometimes mean the room available is unconventionally shaped; it can often turn out to be the best way to get the largest footprint. Unlike the Velux loft conversion, the dormer conversion requires extended permissions, alters the external structure, and has an average completion time of 8 weeks.

Benefits of a dormer loft conversion

• Provide extended space

A dormer adds headspace to your loft, so you’re not constrained by the eaves of the room as they drop towards the floor. This reclaimed vertical space can allow metres of space at the edges of the room to be reclaimed as usable space.

• Views

Where a Velux rooflight provides skyward views and plenty of natural light, a dormer allows views horizontally out of your property – usually lovely at roof level, as you look across other roof tops, into leafy trees, or across to the skyline.

• Increased value

A dormer extension is likely to increase your home’s value by about 20%. Adding an extra bedroom, or such an increase in floor space, almost always provides a great ROI when you sell and makes use of wasted space in your home.

• An opportunity to change the aesthetic

Where Velux loft conversions maintain the exterior appearance, adding a dormer provides an opportunity to put your mark on the exterior of your home. Adding a modern glass or zinc dormer, for example, to a historic home, illustrates the journey of the building through the years up to the present day, and adds modern style and character. 

Which will you Choose? Speak to Our Experts for More Information

Contact JBS Lofts today for a free quote by calling 01179 861 273, emailing enquiries@jbsloftsltd.co.uk or filling in the relevant information on our online contact form. 

We will get back to you as soon as possible with the further information you require.