Tag: loft conversion

Popular ways to gain access to your loft conversion

Popular ways to gain access to your loft conversion | H is for Home

Decisions about types of access to your new loft, will be based upon the space you have available for access. The type of access you can install will, in turn, dictate the practical use to which you can put the loft. So, this is really the place to start with your planning.

Remember, you must comply with all the appropriate building regulations if you are converting your loft and there are specific regulations relating to stairs if you plan to convert your loft into a liveable space. Although a loft conversion does not normally require planning permission, there are some limits and conditions which apply, so have your plans checked thoroughly before you start.

Compact staircasecredit

New staircase

Depending on the layout of your home, the space available and the options for entry points into the loft you could install a new staircase in the stairwell and continue your existing stair design. If you cannot extend from the stairwell you could have a separate staircase installed which could be in a traditional, open riser or alternator style, straight, dog-leg or L-shaped, according to your requirements. Staircase options allow for a full loft conversion because of the easy access they provide.

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Loft ladder or retractable stairs

If the space for access is limited, you may only be able to install a loft ladder or retractable stairs. This would make your loft suitable for storage use or limited access – perhaps to house a model railway or snooker table. Loft ladders and retractable stairs are available in metal or wood in a range of practical designs; folding or sliding, manual or electric. To comply with building regulations, you could not normally convert the loft in to a liveable space if you only have room for a loft ladder or retractable stairs as these would not provide a safe escape from fire.

Spiral stairs

Spiral staircase

If you’re looking to save space and have an access point not obstructing frequently used walkways, then a spiral staircase is a great option. These come in a whole range of styles and sizes and consist of a central column out from which the treads fan. Treads can be made from a variety of materials including wood, metal, glass, acrylic and stone so you’re sure to find a style in keeping with your décor. Check whether your space-saving stairs comply with loft conversion building regulations prior to installation.

Floating stairscredit

Floating stairs

Floating stairs make a beautiful design feature in any home. If you like the look of floating stairs but are nervous about the openness, especially if you have small children, don’t worry, clear balustrades and hand rails can be incorporated without detracting from the design impact. While these can be made in a wide range of materials there are some building regulations relating to their design so, again, ensure you check first.

Bespoke curved stairscredit

Bespoke

Whatever style of access you select for your loft conversion, you can have a bespoke design to meet your exact requirements. Whether you want straight, spiral or floating you can choose from a wide variety of materials and design features to get the exact look, either blending in the access point or making a bold statement.

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Is your home running short of space?

Small detached house with white picket fence

If your home or holiday home is feeling a bit cramped and you’re thinking about the possibility of moving, then there are a few alternatives that you might want to consider before you go to all of the hassle of viewings, coping with solicitors and all of the problematic processes of a move.

Rather than going to pastures new, have you thought about extending your existing place? There are many different ways to create new space in your current location, if you have the room to do so.

Loft conversion

Loft conversion

This can be a really quick job that creates an extra room if you currently have some loft space that isn’t being used effectively. What feels like a wasted space can easily be converted into a new bedroom or an office.

Conservatory

Conservatory

A conservatory can add a significant amount of space to your property and can been done fairly cheaply. Perfect for enjoying the warmer weather and can really brighten up the entire feel of your downstairs area. Spending time where you are experiencing more daylight even impacts your mood and your well-being.

Outdoor building

Chicken in front of a shed

If you need some extra space for storage then you could buy a shed for the garden. You can get all kinds of sizes and materials to store the bigger items that are taking up room around the property.

If you’re looking for something bigger for living space, then you could opt for a building to be erected outside if you have enough room. Take a look at some Armstrong Steel reviews for some feedback from customers who have chosen steel buildings to create extra property. They could turn out to be a lot less expensive than you think and could be the perfect option for an office or a living room.

Garage conversion

Blue garage doors

If your household is one of the many that don’t use the garage to park their car in, then you could use the space for something much better. A garage conversion can transform your living space and give you the opportunity to expand your living room, dining room or kitchen area. Or you could simply add plenty of garage shelving and give yourself as much storage as you need, so the rest of your home looks and feels better.

Improve your storage options

Under-sofa storaged drawers

If you have lots of items, maybe toys that are frequently in use, are you storing them wisely? Try to opt for dual purpose storage options; storage boxes that can also be used for seating, when you buy a bed, buy one that has storage drawers built in and look into options for built in wardrobes and cupboards. There are so many inventive ways of creating extra space and if you can get a good joiner, you can create storage space practically anywhere.

If you’re starting to feel that your home is getting too small to live in then take a look at all of the available options and get some quotes for the different possibilities. Moving home can be really stressful and time-consuming, so if you’re already happy with your current location then make the most of the alternative ways to create extra space.

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