Loft Conversion Structural Engineers
Structural Engineers for Loft Conversions in Neasden and surrounding North and West London boroughs
Loft Conversion Structural Engineers in Neasden, London
Are you considering a loft conversion? If so, did you know that a good quality loft conversion can add up to 20% to the value of your home. However, a poorly designed or built loft conversion can have the opposite effect. To avoid the latter, we recommend you hire the right professionals to help you achieve a loft conversion that will minimise headaches in the future. They include an architect, a structural engineer and reputable, experienced builders.
Not all properties can accommodate a loft conversion, which is another reason why you’ll need to hire a competent architect and experienced structural engineer. They can help you decide the right use of space available.
Another major factor in your conversion is your budget. Those with a smaller budget may be looking at a simple roof-light loft conversion where specialist windows are installed in the roof to bring in natural light and provide ventilation.
If you have a larger budget, you may want a dormer, or a hip-to-gable loft conversion, which works by extending the sloping part of the roof at the side of your property (the hip) outwards to create a vertical wall (gable), for more space. This build is only possible with detached or semi-detached properties, as it requires a free sloping side roof. Make sure you hire experienced builders.
Getting the most space from your loft
If you have a generous budget, you may want to consider a Mansard loft conversion. This extension runs along the whole length of the roof of your house. It is more expensive but worth it for the extra space. These conversions can work on most types of properties.
When planning a loft conversion for your house, we recommended that you appoint a structural engineer to assess your home and give you guidance as to how to build the conversion safely upon the existing building.
Structural engineers’ considerations
for a loft conversion
Loft conversions are attractive to many homeowners, who want more space in their property because it uses existing space and does not change the footprint of the house. However, the structural challenges associated with converting a loft are often underestimated.
Loft conversions will usually require structural alterations to the floor, roof, walls and the addition of a staircase to provide adequate access and escape in the event of fire. There are also considerations that must be made with regards to safely and efficiently heating, lighting and insulating your newly created room(s).
How much value do loft conversions add?
Converting your loft can be expensive but is ultimately rewarding and will add huge value to your property – as mentioned earlier, potentially up to 20 per cent. Whilst this is a bonus, most people undertake a loft conversion for the following reasons:
- because they need the extra space
- their property will allow for it
- it offers a more attractive proposition than moving house.
Contact our structural engineering consultants to find out more.
How can we help you?
Structural engineering services - areas we cover
Whilst we are based in Neasden, London, we regularly assist clients in Camden, Chiswick, Ealing, East Finchley, Edgware, Hampstead, Harrow, Kilburn, Neasden, Shepherd’s Bush, Wembley, Willesden.. If you would like to find out more about our services call Neasden Structural Engineers on 020 8088 2243.