Installation

ROOF JOISTS

For virtually all loft conversions the existing timber joists which form the floor of the loft space will not have been designed to support a significant weight and will need to be strengthened. These joists tie the pitched members of the roof together and support the ceiling of the rooms below

LOAD BEARING WALLS

It is essential that load bearing walls are not overburdened by the additional weight of the loft rooms. Calculations will be made and plans submitted to the local authority for approval.

REAR DORMERS

A rear dormer is generally constructed during the loft conversion. This gives the rooms a lot of extra head height and a great deal more useable space.

GABLE END LOFT

Some semi detached houses will already have an existing gable wall which facilities a roof dormer as shown above.

HIP TO GABLE LOFT

Another type of semi detached house will have a roof which slopes on three sides and the side wall will need to be built up to maximise space in the loft. This is called a Hip to Gable loft conversion.

SIDE DORMER

Alternatively, a side dormer may be built for extra height and space, particularly in a Conservation Area where raising the gable end wall would not be permitted. A side dormer may also be chosen to be more in keeping with the character of the house.

JULIET BALCONIES

The picture above shows a loft conversion with French doors and Juliet balcony.

DORMER WINDOWS

Dormer windows are usually manufactured from Upvc and are double glazed. They are virtually maintenance free and help to ensure heat is retained. For a period house, double glazed sliding sashes may be preferred in keeping with other windows.

LOFT CONVERSIONS WITHOUT DORMER

Velux windows are used in all Bracken Lofts' loft conversions. They are extremely versatile and can be used instead of dormer windows in a Conservation area or if a customer prefers not to have a dormer.

VELUX ROOFLIGHT WINDOWS

In most lofts they are positioned in the front elevation of the roof to provide light to that part of the loft rooms and also to provide a means of escape in the unlikely event of fire. Bracken Lofts are approved 5* VELUX Installers.

FASCIA BOARDS

Fascia boards for the new dormer will be in maintenance free Upvc

STAIRCASE TO LOFT ROOMS

The new staircase will blend in with the design of the existing staircase.

EN-SUITE BATHROOM

Many customers chose to add an en-suite bathroom in the loft as it is definitely an advantage – especially with teenagers in the house!

LOFT STORAGE

Some storage areas will be retained in the loft after conversion. These can be very useful for suitcases and Christmas decorations, etc.

EXTENSIONS

Bracken Lofts have much experience of designing and building house extensions which are a great way of enhancing your lifestyle by creating a large kitchen diner, adding a downstairs toilet and utility room. We have an in-house design service which can work to your specification or suggest ideas and then to submit plans for approval to the local authority. www.planningportal.gov.uk/permission/commonprojects/extensions/