Loft Conversions: A step by step guide

Depending on the roof structure and planning constraints, a loft conversion is one of the most straightforward and effective ways of getting the space you need from your existing house.

Almost all houses can benefit from this extension with a bit of basic planning. This step by step guide from Homebuilding & Renovating talks you through everything you need to know.

Do I need planning permission?

You don’t normally require planning permission for a loft conversion – that may include a dormer – unless:

  • the newly converted space is over 50m3 (40m3 for a terraced home);
  • the dormer is beyond the plane of the existing roof slope on the front elevation;
  • the dormer is higher than the current highest part of the roof (this is often the case in mansardstyle extensions);
  • you want to include side windows that are non-obscure glazed and/or less than 1.7m above the floor;
  • you live in a specially designated area such as a Conservation Area or your home is listed;
  • the dormer will be within 20cm of the eaves.

It is always best to check with your local planning department to clarify the above. Regardless of whether it needs planning approval, a loft conversion will require Building Regulations approval.

For more advice on planning approval and Building Regulations, visit www.planningportal.gov.uk    

Read the full article and step-by-step guide

Installing Loft Insulation

Topping up your existing loft insulation to the recommended 270mm can help your home to retain heat during the cold winter months ahead. Follow Homebuilding & Renovating's step-by-step guide to find out how to do it on a DIY basis.

Between 15 and 25 percent of the heat lost from our homes is lost through the roof. Loft insulation helps to trap that rising hot air — and, by topping up existing insulation to the recommended 270mm, the average household saving on annual heating bills can be more than £150. You’ll also be helping to save the planet by reducing your home’s carbon footprint to the tune of one tonne of CO2 a year.

If 270mm of insulation sounds like a lot, you’re right — it’s only 27mm less than the length of the page you’re currently reading. By the time you’ve put 100mm of insulation down, it will be level with the top of many ceiling joists. To get the extra depth of insulation you need, employ a cross-laying technique.

Thickness is one thing, quality of material is another. Synthetic materials such as glass fibre and mineral wool, and natural sheep’s wool are popular choices for insulating. However, cost and quality can vary — see our guide on materials (below) for further information.  

View the full loft insulation step-by-step guide