Loft Conversions - Styles Accessible
Roof Light Conversion
On the outdoors on a roof light only conversion you will probably just see Velux windows, for this reason alone (except in some designated areas, which you would have to check with your nearby authority), roof light conversions don't need planning as they do not change the roof line. The success of such a conversion depends on having enough head height and width in the current loft space to make it usable. Also if you are developing to developing regulations you will need a fixed stair case so it also depends on the layout on the floor below as the stairs require to finish at a point with a minimum quantity of head clearance
Front/Side Dormer Conversion
These can be flat roofed or pitched, if possible we would usually recommend pitched, simply because it retains the character of the property better, nevertheless occasionally this is just not sensible. They open out the space better than just a roof light conversion as nicely. However you will need planning permission for them if they are at the front of the house. At the side it's different, you don't need permission for the structure but if the window is overlooking a neighbour you will need permission for something but obscure glazing.
Gable Extension
This entails raising the "hipped" end of the roof and would be used if there wasn't sufficient usable space in the loft. Once more no permission is required supplying it doesn't add more than 40m³ to a terraced or 50m³ to a detached or semi detached property, nevertheless you will need to check if you are in a designated area.
Wrap Around Extension
This is a extremely popular option for many semi detached homes as it totally opens up the loft space. It consists of a gable extension, combined with a big flat roof dormer. Again supplying you remain inside the permitted development allowances and don't live in a designated area, you will not need planning. Nevertheless as the trend is frequently to place a window in the gable end, if you're overlooking a neighbour, you will require obscure glazing
Mansard Conversion
These are much more common in conservation locations and London and are not some thing you would see regularly in West Yorkshire. They are constructed with a flat roof and a slightly sloping wall which incorporates small dormers. More commonly seen in conservation areas or when planning is required.
Rear Dormer Conversion
This is a popular style which allows you to open up the space a lot better than a conventional dormer. This is because purlin's are removed, the area often strengthened then with steel, and the dormer can be extended right out to the roofline. They would also usually be flat roofed. Again no permission needed supplying you stick inside permitted development limits.
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