Loft Conversions - Styles Available
Roof Light Conversion
On the outside on a roof light only conversion you will most likely just see Velux windows, for this purpose alone (except in some designated areas, which you would have to verify with your local authority), roof light conversions don't require planning as they do not change the roof line. The success of such a conversion depends on getting enough head height and width in the current loft space to make it usable. Also if you are building to building regulations you will need a fixed stair case so it also depends on the layout on the floor beneath as the stairs need 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, because it retains the character of the property much better, nevertheless occasionally this is just not sensible. They open out the space much better than just a roof light conversion as nicely. However you will require planning permission for them if they are at the front of the house. At the side it's different, you don't require permission for the structure but if the window is overlooking a neighbour you will require 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 enough usable space in the loft. Again no permission is needed supplying it doesn't add more than 40m³ to a terraced or 50m³ to a detached or semi detached property, nevertheless you will require to check if you are in a designated area.
Wrap About Extension
This is a extremely well-liked option for numerous semi detached homes as it totally opens up the loft space. It consists of a gable extension, combined with a large flat roof dormer. Once more supplying you remain inside the permitted development allowances and don't live in a designated area, you will not require planning. Nevertheless as the trend is frequently to put a window in the gable end, if you're overlooking a neighbour, you will require obscure glazing
Mansard Conversion
These are more common in conservation areas and London and are not something you would see frequently in West Yorkshire. They are constructed with a flat roof and a slightly sloping wall which incorporates small dormers. More commonly noticed in conservation locations or when planning is required.
Rear Dormer Conversion
This is a popular style which enables you to open up the space much better than a conventional dormer. This is because purlin's are removed, the region often strengthened then with steel, and the dormer can be extended right out to the roofline. They would also generally be flat roofed. Again no permission needed supplying you stick inside permitted development limits
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