WHAT TO EXPECT FROM YOUR LOFT CONVERSION

A loft conversion is a lengthy process, usually taking 8-12 weeks, so it’s natural for clients to want to know what to expect. Econoloft does everything possible to minimise the disruption to your home, but some inconvenience is inevitable. While every home is unique, here’s a general overview of what you can expect when installing a dormer in your loft.

 

The loft conversion process involves several stages. First, we conduct preliminary checks to ensure everything is in order before starting the floor construction. This phase includes installing beams, re-bricking party walls, installing joists, and finishing with a chipboard floor covering to provide a solid foundation.

 

Once the floor is complete, we turn our attention to the roof. This step requires both support and rooflight installation. We re-support the existing roof structure to ensure stability and then install a rooflight to bring natural light into the loft space.

 

Next, we install roof supports. New purlin walls are essential for supporting the existing roof structure, complementing the earlier roof support efforts. To further reinforce the roofing, we add new rafters alongside the existing ones, strengthening the overall roof integrity.

 

Finally, we construct the dormer according to the provided plans. This phase requires careful consideration of the correct size, position, and prevailing weather conditions to ensure the dormer is constructed accurately.

 

Externally, the dormer is clad with sheathing ply, and supalux fire board is installed on the cheeks within one meter from the boundary, providing fire resistance. The structure is finished with a breathable membrane and treated tile batten, ready for plain tile hanging.

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Roofing involves installing new roof joists to accommodate UPVC facia, a vent strip, gutters, and downpipes. Lead covers are installed over tiles, and ventilation tiles are added to ensure proper airflow.

 

Before wall construction begins, the positioning of partitions is confirmed with clients to ensure that the layout meets their needs. Service installation is scheduled, requiring the booking of an electrician and plumber for initial wiring and piping work before plasterboarding and insulation can occur.

 

Staircase installation is another critical phase, where the new staircase adheres to safety standards, including a maximum 100mm gap between spindles and integration with the existing handrail.

 

Plastering and electrical work follow, with plastering completed first, allowing electricians to finish the electrical installations. Plumbing and joinery tasks include the plumbing final fix and joinery tasks such as fitting skirting, architraves, and hanging doors, including fire doors.

 

Finally, once all construction phases are complete, a final completion building inspection is booked to ensure everything is up to standard and ready for use, marking the culmination of the loft construction project.