Is-My-Roof-Suitable-for-a-Loft-Conversion-A loft conversion is a great way to increase your home’s living space without having to move to a new house. However, not every roof is suitable for this renovation.

In this post, we’ll look at some of the main factors to consider when it comes to your roof and a loft conversion.

What are the key considerations?

Minimum head height

By and large, most roofs are suitable for a loft conversion. The main consideration is their head height. Put simply, this will be the height of the ceiling when the room is converted.

If you have a traditional roof with inverted ‘V’ shaped rafters, you’ll need a minimum of 2.2 metres at the roof’s highest point. However, if your roof is trussed (with a ‘W’ shape) it will need to be at least 2.4 metres at its highest point. Generally roofs with trusses are not able to be converted without significant expense in renewing the whole roof and its structure.

Roof pitch

Another concern for many homeowners is the pitch of your roof. Ideally, it should have a pitch of an deal 30 degrees. A lower pitch will mean lower head height in the centre of the loft space, while a higher pitch will provide a larger roof space.

In the UK, most roofs are between 25-35 degrees, so this shouldn’t be an issue.

Floor space

As well as measuring the height and pitch, consider the floor space on offer. A loft conversion is quite an investment, so you’ll want to make sure you get a room that’s worth the effort and expense. As a general rule, we would say no smaller than 5×5 metres as you have to factor in how the roof slopes lower towards the room’s perimeter.

Features

What’s actually in your roof space? Some roof spaces will be obstructed by the chimney stack, for instance, which could eat away at the loft space on offer. Others will store a water tank in the roof space. While not immovable, this is worth considering when planning the conversion.

Planning permission

The next issue is whether you need planning permission for your roof. In most cases, we have good news. Roof spaces can be converted without any permission and can even be extended by up to 50 cubic metres – or 40 cubic metres for terraced properties.

However, you will need planning permission if you want anything to protrude from the slope of the roof, such as a dormer or balcony. Always check with the council first before starting the journey to a loft conversion.

Listed properties and conservation areas

It’s worth noting that the permitted developments described above don’t apply to listed properties or those in conservation areas. These houses are protected from any changes to their structure, which are generally only accepted if they are in the interest of preserving the property. With that in mind, it’s unlikely a loft conversion would be approved on a listed property.

How can we help?

DPR Roofing is a team of expert roofing contractors in Leeds. If you’re thinking of converting your loft, we can assist with a new roof that maximises the space of your conversion while staying within the permitted development parameters.

We also offer domestic roof repairs, if you simply need your roof fixing when converting the loft.

Get in touch today to arrange a no-obligation quote.