A guide to loft conversion technical terms

If you’re interested in a loft conversion, it can be difficult to know where to start – especially with the technical language that can often crop up with any building project. We’ve put together a short guide to some of the most common loft conversion terms, so you can stay informed when it comes to your top floor:

Velux  – Many people think Velux refers to a window – thanks to the popular Velux skylight brand. However, it simply refers to fitting Velux rooflights – but you do need a loft of the right size and suitable building regulations to do this.

Dormer – Dormer refers to the popular roof conversion which involves a straight extension that protrudes out of a sloping roof. They offer more room and headspace in your loft, and add a stylish look to the outside of your property.

Mansard – This is a type of loft conversion that changes the angle of your roof slope. It makes the roof slope almost vertical, which essentially means the walls of your loft are made taller – it’s a fantastic way to dramatically increase the space in your loft.

Hip-to-gable – These conversions allow for more room in your loft by extending the peak of the sloping ‘hip’ roof on the side of your property. It can only be done on semi-detached and detached houses, but you can have a double hip-to-gable extension on detached homes for even more space.

Pitch – The pitch just refers to the slope of your roof – this is sometimes altered during a loft conversion to allow even more space.

Rafters and Roof Trusses – Rafters and roof trusses are two different kinds of structures that support your roof. When having a roof conversion, these are always assessed.

Party Wall Agreement – If you live in a house that’s connected to another home, for example, a terraced house or a semi-detached, a Party Wall Agreement is the official agreement between you and your neighbour surrounding work you can do to those connecting walls.

For more information about loft conversions, get in touch with a member of our team – we’re always on hand to help.