14 May Types of loft conversion explained

Converting your loft into a bedroom, study or lounge does far more than increase your living space and make your home more comfortable. It can also add up to 20% in property value in just 8-12 weeks! And since most loft conversions fall under permitted development, you generally don’t even need planning permission.

But converting your loft isn’t just about throwing down a carpet and installing some windows. There are several different types of loft conversion that each add unique characteristics to your home.

The type of loft conversion you choose depends on the style of your property and what you would like to use the space for. But it can also be influenced by the height and shape of your roof, and whether your home is detached, semi-detached or terraced.

To help you make the right decision for your property, let’s explore the 5 main loft conversion types: Velux, dormer, mansard, hip-to-gable and L-shaped loft conversions.

Different types of loft conversion

Velux loft conversion

What is a Velux loft conversion?

Also known as a roof light loft conversion, this conversion takes its name from the world-leading window manufacturer Velux.

Some types of loft conversion require construction to extend your loft space. But a Velux loft conversion only involves adding windows and reinforcing the floor. That makes it one of the simplest types of loft conversion.

These conversions are best suited to lofts with plenty of headroom so you can make the best use of your available space. Adding multiple windows – Velux or otherwise – lets you bring the maximum amount of light into your new room. You could also add an en-suite bathroom to turn your loft into a luxurious master bedroom if the space permits.

If you’re considering a Velux loft conversion, always choose a Velux accredited installer like JBS Lofts. That way, you can always have confidence in high-quality installation and an exceptional finish.

What type of property is best for a Velux loft conversion?

Since a Velux loft conversion doesn’t involve a lot of construction work, most properties with a spacious attic are suitable. However, if you live in a terraced house with minimal head height in the loft space, you might find that a flat roof dormer loft conversion gives you more space to work with.

Dormer loft conversion

What is a dormer loft conversion?

Unfortunately, most lofts don’t have the head height for a simple Velux loft conversion. A dormer loft conversion is one of the most popular loft extension types for turning an attic into a liveable space where head height is otherwise limited.

A dormer is a box-shaped structure constructed at the rear of a property with walls that sit at a 90° angle to the floor.

There are two types of dormer loft conversion: a flat roof dormer and a gabled dormer (also called a pitched roof dormer loft conversion).

A flat roof dormer loft extension is exactly what you might expect, a dormer with a flat roof. This allows you to maximise headspace, making it a great fit for terraced homes where loft space is limited.

A gabled or pitched roof dormer loft conversion is similar, but features a pitched roof that slopes down on either side. Their more traditional design makes gabled dormers a more popular choice for older properties. They pair well with large windows or French doors, letting in plenty of light and giving you an amazing view!

What type of property is best for a dormer loft conversion?

Dormers are well suited to most types of property, including terraced, semi-detached and detached homes as well as bungalows.  The size of your dormer can vary to match the size of your property. You can choose flat roof or gabled dormers depending on the style of your home and the surrounding neighbourhood.

Mansard loft conversion

What is a mansard loft conversion?

Named after the 17th century French architect François Mansart, a mansard loft conversion carries a distinctive design. It features a flat-roof extension with a face that slopes back at a 72o° angle.

This conversion offers slightly less headroom compared to a typical dormer. But many homeowners feel the unique angle makes it more aesthetically pleasing from the outside. This superior kerb appeal could give you the edge if you decide to sell your property.

What type of property is best for a mansard loft conversion?

Whether your property is detached, semi-detached, terraced or a bungalow, chances are your property is a good fit for a mansard loft conversion. These are most commonly found in densely populated areas in which space to the side and back of a property are limited, such as London.

Hip-to-gable loft conversion

What is a hip-to-gable loft conversion?

A hip-to-gable (or raised gabled) loft conversion extends your property on the side of your roof that slopes. If both sides of your roof slope, you can extend both for a larger loft.

After the sloping roof is removed, the side wall is built up to the same height as the ridge to create a gable end. Then, the front and back of your roof are extended to meet that gable-end wall. The extension is usually finished with Velux windows, though you can further add a dormer to get even more space from your extension.

A hip-to-gable loft conversion adds a significant amount of space. This makes it an excellent choice if you want to create an additional living room or a lavish master bedroom with an en-suite bathroom.

What type of property is best for a hip-to-gable loft conversion?

As suggested above, a hip-to-gable loft conversion is suitable for a property with a roof that slopes towards the ridge at the side. It’s a good fit for detached and semi-detached properties, and even lets you add another level to a bungalow.

L-shaped loft conversion

What is an L-shaped loft conversion?

If your property has an L-shaped structure, you can add connected flat roof dormers over the main and rear parts of your roof. This L-shaped loft conversion creates a huge amount of space for living and storage.

What type of property is best for an L-shaped loft conversion?

L-shaped loft conversions are often added to Victorian or Edwardian mid-terraced properties. These usually feature a ground floor kitchen that extends out further than the upper floor structure. This conversion is generally added on top of that space.

Get your free quote today!

As highly accredited loft conversion specialists with more than 15 years in the industry, JBS Lofts has built a reputation for delivering beautiful conversions at a competitive price. So if you’re thinking about a loft conversion in Bristol or Bath, contact us today for a free no-obligation quote!