Loft conversions can add a great deal of space to a home and are ideal when there is insufficient space to extend sideways over a property. Done well, a conversion will add value to a property, but poorly thought through ones can make the upper floors seem cramped for space and devoid of light. When considering a loft conversion, bear in mind the following questions, in terms of both pros and cons, for your particular dwelling. Not all of them can be incorporated positively into every home, but the more you can include, the better the overall home improvement project will be.

What will the room be used for? Most loft conversions are designed for an additional bedroom, but if your home already has plenty of bedroom space, it will add little value. Instead, consider another use for the loft: one that will attract would-be buyers at the point you come to sell. Alternatives such as playrooms, nurseries, home theatres and utility rooms are all good ones to opt for if you already have enough bedrooms.

How will you access the loft? If your loft conversion can only be accessed by a pull-down ladder, then it is going to be of limited appeal in terms of adding value to your property. Full stairs with a safe staircase balustrade, on the other hand, make access easy. In tight spaces, spiral staircases should be considered, but a staircase that turns through 180 degrees is usually the best solution that steals the least amount of free space from your current upper landing area.

What storage will be on offer? Many loft conversions suffer from a chronic lack of storage. This is because conventional wardrobes won't fit in the eaves of most loft spaces. Utilise the corners of your eaves to create low-level cabinets with sliding doors which make storing things easy, but which don't take up valuable floor space. Wall-mounted cabinets are usually impossible with pitched roofs, so under-bed storage options are frequently a good idea, too.

What windows will suit the room? There are a number of window option to consider for a loft conversion Dormer windows create a vertical pane of glass and are ideal if the loft has low eaves because they create spaces to stand up under without having to stoop. However, a cheaper alternative is a simple skylight to allow a light and airy feel. Only in places where you are completely overlooked by nearby taller buildings should you consider a light pipe to bring natural sunlight into the space.

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