The answer depends on the type of conversion, and we’re here to break it down for you
Converting your loft from a storage space into a habitable room is an excellent way to make the most out of every inch of your home. It gives you a new bedroom, office, playroom, or gym to enjoy, all while adding thousands in value when it comes time to sell.
Before you can take the first step towards a loft conversion, one worry might be holding you back: how much work will be involved. More specifically, will part (or even all) of your roof need to be removed, or can it stay intact?
Thanks to our experience converting lofts throughout London and beyond, the specialists at SM London Construction have the answers. Below, we’ll explore the different types of loft conversions and explain if a roof might need to be removed for each.
Which types of loft conversions need roof removal?
There are a few different types of loft conversions, each giving you different amounts of space and requiring different levels of structural work. Here are the most common options:
Roof Light / Velux Loft Conversion
A roof light or Velux conversion is one of the easiest and most affordable conversion options. It involves adding windows to the existing roof slope without altering the structure, allowing natural light and ventilation into the loft space and turning it into a usable living area.
Since no major structural changes are needed, you won’t have to remove the roof for this type of conversion. This makes it an ideal choice if you want to keep the project simple, low-impact, and budget-friendly.
Dormer Loft Conversion
A dormer loft conversion involves adding a box-shaped structure, called a dormer, that extends outward from the roof slope. Its vertical walls and flat or pitched roof increases headroom, brings in more natural light, and adds extra floor space to your loft.
While dormers do involve structural work to the roof, they don’t usually require full roof removal. Instead, small sections are altered to accommodate the new structure.
Mansard Loft Conversion
A mansard loft conversion is a major renovation that changes the slope of the roof on one or both sides, creating near-vertical walls (usually at a 72-degree angle) and a flat roof. This design maximises usable headroom and floor space. Dormer windows are also often added to bring in more light.
Mansard conversions provide the most space compared to other types of loft conversions and can greatly enhance the look of your home. However, because of the extensive structural changes involved, full roof removal is often necessary.
Hip-to-Gable Loft Conversion
A hip-to-gable conversion is perfect for homes with a sloping roof. In this type of conversion, the sloping side (the "hip") is extended upward to form a vertical wall (the "gable"), creating more headroom and usable space in the loft. It’s especially beneficial for semi-detached or detached homes.
Although this conversion requires major alterations to the roof to accommodate the new structure, full roof removal isn’t usually needed.
L-Shaped Loft Conversion
An L-shaped loft conversion is designed for properties with an existing rear extension. It combines two dormers, typically at the back of the house, to form an "L" shape. This setup extends vertically from the roof slope, creating a more spacious loft that can easily accommodate - for example - a new bedroom and en suite.
While the structure is more complex than other conversions, full roof removal isn’t usually necessary. Only certain sections of the roof are modified, similar to a single dormer conversion.
Modular Loft Conversion
When is roof removal necessary?
As we’ve seen, not every loft conversion means taking off the roof. If you’re not keen on making big changes, something simpler like a roof light or Velux conversion might be perfect. If you're open to more extensive work, you can go for ambitious projects like a mansard or modular conversion, which may require removing parts or all of the roof to create the space you want.
Planning Permission
If the conversion will increase the roof space by more than 50 cubic metres for detached and semi-detached houses or 40 cubic metres for terraced houses (including any previous roof space additions), planning permission will be needed.
Ready to turn your loft into the perfect dream space? with our luxury loft conversions
Whether you're planning a simple dormer conversion or a more complex design, trust the experts at SM London Construction, North London’s leading specialists in luxury loft conversions.
We provide a fully bespoke service, transforming your loft into the space of your dreams - whether it’s a new bedroom, game room, or anything else you can imagine. We’ll work closely with you to bring your vision to life, using premium materials and top-quality craftsmanship to create a space that exudes luxury from floor to ceiling. Just look at our gallery to see the kind of results we can achieve!
Our accredited team minimise disruption and follow a strict timeline throughout the process, allowing for a smooth, stress-free experience. All our work is backed by a 10-year structural guarantee for complete peace of mind.
Ready to elevate your home? Book a complimentary in-home consultation online or give us a call on 0208 226 5511 to start planning your dream loft today.