Loft conversions can cost more than £50,000, and to many, it is too high a price to pay. Luckily, there are ways to beat down the expenses. The burning question is: is it possible to convert your loft while spending less and not compromising what it should look like?
Whether you need a big workspace or a comfortable bedroom, adequate budgeting and planning can save you loads of cash. In this blog post, we will examine the five efficient ways of cutting down the cost on your loft conversion.
Ways to Cut Cost on your Loft Conversion
1. Consider how much headroom and light you need
Having a well-lit room is essential, and the way people respond to this need is to put lots of windows in the loft. Increasing the headroom is a crucial aspect of a loft conversion as this will give you the space you need within your new room. It’s always best to get the most significant conversion possible to add more value to your property.
Always have the project’s objective in mind. Adding more windows will incur more cost, but would be worth it if a bright, welcoming area is much needed. The labour cost of installing a big or small window is about the same, but the overall value rises when more windows are required.
2. Ensure your plans are finalised and sent for approval early
The government has set laws on how to convert your loft, and so you must abide by them. However, not all lofts to be converted need to be approved before the project begins. Most times, they can be done under the permitted development rights that allow you to extend and improve your space. Create-room can help you figure out whether you require planning permission or not, contact us for a free consultation.
In the planning stage, you should factor in all the things that can happen along the way. Finalising the plan entails understanding, to the last detail, what the layout will be and all other necessary decisions to be made. Unless you stay in a protected area, you may not need the permission or approval if space is less than 50 cubic metres, and not higher than what it already is.
3. Manage your project loft conversion yourself
Managing your loft conversion project is another way of cutting the cost of the project. By supervising the project yourself, you will be able to monitor the material usage, manage the tradesmen and carefully watch the processing time till it is completed.
In managing your loft conversion project, you must ensure that every one that is a part of the project understands their duties, and be on the ground to manage other day-to-day activities. When critical decisions are to be made, you must always be present.
Managing a loft conversion project is not a walk in the park, so make sure you are committed and prepared for all that the task entails.
4. Consider the plumbing position
If you intend to add a bathroom to your loft when converting it then, where you decide to put it can impact on the cost of the project. The ideal place is just above the pipework because this will require less work than re-routing the plumbing around the building.
5. Write everything down
When you get your desired builder and architect, ensure that they give you a quote. So you don’t get surprises along the way. Also, make sure to write up a contract with the suppliers for the materials you want them to deliver.
Make sure you have a plan, a timeframe and an agreement for all necessary components.
Mistakes you can make when converting you loft
Some mistakes you should try and avoid when converting your loft are;
1. Leaving the Design to Chance
Most people think a loft conversion is a straightforward and easy project. There are actually a lot of tricky decisions that need to be made. Leaving the design to chance is definitely one that will have grave consequences on your plans.
The roof and layout will determine much of the design, so you must be certain of what these two components will look like from the onset. Other structural features like the staircase, position of furniture, bathroom facilities, and so on, need to be decided quickly.
Nevertheless, you should also look for alternatives to your preferred design. You may have to downgrade some elements if their costs are too high. Remember that all your plans and design must be completed in your plans before your project is approved.
2. Poor Choice of Contractor
Even though you should be the manager of your loft conversion project, don’t think you can do everything by yourself. You will need a contractor to help you with most of the activities you need to carry out. When selecting a contractor, make sure they are the best you can find in the area. Nothing beats recommendations or reviews when looking for a good loft conversion company.
A good contractor will work to complete the project to your satisfaction in the shortest amount of time and using the smallest amount of resources.
3. Using substandard products
We understand that you will want to cut down costs as much as possible. However, you must not purchase substandard products to achieve this. At first, the substandard fixtures, building materials and fittings may seem cheap and readily available. But, they often get damaged quickly. You will eventually have to spend more money on their replacement, which is one thing no one likes doing.
uPVC windows are not the first choice for everyone, but they will save you quite a lot of money in the long run.
4. Not accessing trade sales and discounts
Loft conversion contractors and companies have trade discounts and can pass these to their customers. If you intend to save up a lot of money, then use a company’s joinery account to get trade prices for your doors, flooring and all other elements of your loft.
In conclusion
Follow the ways of cutting cost, and avoid the tips we have listed above to make your dream loft conversion project come to life. Contact create room now for a customised professional service.