There are many myths involving  loft conversions but many of these are incorrect. This article will  explain the process, what Marble Construction does to make the process as easy and cost-effective as possible and debunk the false perceptions people have of planning permission.

Myth #1 – Planning Permission is necessary for all loft conversions.

Permitted development means that the work on a property does not require planning permission and surprisingly this accounts for a lot of loft conversions.

If the customer wishes to avoid the planning permission stage altogether, there are some requirements that the extension must meet which include:

• The loft conversion must not increase the  property’s size by more than 50 cubic metres or 40 cubic metres in terrace properties. (The existing loft space is is already included in the property’s existing size).
• The overall height of a property must not be increased.
• Any alterations to the property’s external shape must not face highways, footpaths or bridleways. Rear dormers are normally the best way around this.

According to a customer’s requirements, Marble Construction’s surveyors and architects can produce plans specifically to avoid needing planning permission.

During the free survey Marble offer potential clients, the loft space in cubic metres will be calculated to produce detailed and individualised solutions to situations many other construction companies would simply ignore.

Myth #2 – Truss Roof Designs are Difficult And Expensive to Convert.

The conversion from a trussed roof to a truss-less roof simply involves re-distribution of the roof’s weight from the trusses to beams running from party wall to party wall. This process involves steel beam instillations.

Before work can begin, load bearing calculations will be produced based on the survey. The accuracy of the measurements and calculations will decide the durability and quality of the conversion. Marble Construction’s team of architects and surveyors are amongst the most experienced in the South of England.

Myth #3 – No Space for the Stair Case

If the landing is not large enough to accommodate a second staircase, there is always the option of borrowing space from other rooms to install it.

In situations where space is extremely restricted there is the last resort of the spiral staircase, though these are unpopular with building and fire regulations.

Myth #4 – Ceiling is Too Sloped for a Liveable Space

As long as the highest point of the loft is tall enough to stand without crouching, there is hope for a cost-effective conversion. To increase the head space where the roof slopes downwards, box dormers can be installed with the possibility of installing massive rear dormers at the back of the property.

Where there still isn’t enough head height, the entire roof height can be increased, though this is sometimes so costly, an extension may be a better option.