Hip to Gable Loft Conversion: Max Space
Maximise your attic with a hip to gable loft conversion. Find out the design possibilities, cost breakdowns, and how to navigate planning permissions.
Do you want to turn your attic into a beautiful new room? A hip to gable loft conversion might be the answer.
Understanding the difference between hip and gable roofs is key before you start. Hip roofs have slopes on all sides, gable roofs have two sloping sides that meet at the top to form a triangular peak. Knowing this will help you navigate the process better.
A hip-to-gable loft conversion extends the sloping (hipped) roof of a property by building up the end wall to form a vertical gable. This enlarges the loft space and creates more usable floor area, making it suitable for adding rooms like bedrooms or offices.
In this article we will cover everything you need to know about the hip to gable loft conversion process, from the benefits and planning to cost and common problems. Let’s get started!
When you start a loft conversion project you need to understand your existing roof structure. This will inform all your decisions on what type of loft conversion is best for your home. Here we will go into the details of hip and gable roofs, two common types of roof and how they will affect your dream loft conversion.
Hip and gable roofs are defined by their shape and slope. Let’s break each down:
A hip roof is defined by its four sloping sides that meet at the top to form a central ridge. This shape is stable and wind resistant and environmentally stress tested. Building a hip roof is a bit more complicated due to the extra sides but it creates a lot of attic space which is a big plus when considering a hip to gable loft conversion.
On the other side of the roof spectrum a gable roof has only two sloping sides that meet at a ridge to form a pitched roof. The triangular shape is not only iconic but also associated with classic period properties and modern homes. Gable roofs are simpler in design so less expensive and less complicated to build but they have lower wind resistance than hip roofs so something to consider if you live in an area that gets strong winds or heavy snow.
Understanding the differences between hip and gable roofs will help you anticipate the problems and opportunities that come with each in a loft conversion.
A hip roof has four sloping sides that meet at the top. This is good for stability especially in windy areas. But one of the quirks of the hipped roof is that it can reduce usable floor space in the loft and can be a problem when trying to get head height especially around the stairs. But when converted into a gable roof through a hip to gable loft conversion this can become usable and liveable space.
A gable roof with its two sloping sides and triangular end walls (gable ends) has more attic space to convert. But its simplicity means less wind resistance. Gable roofs are ideal for rear dormers which can add more space and natural light to your loft.
The choice between the two often comes down to environmental factors, local building regulations, style and budget. Each roof type interacts with the external forces and internal demands of the house in a different way and understanding this interaction is key to a functional and beautiful loft space.
Whether you want extra bedrooms, a master suite or additional living space in your home the journey starts with understanding hip and gable roofs and how they can turn your attic into the space you want.
Hip to gable loft conversions are a popular and practical way to add value and space to your home. By converting the sloping sides of a hipped roof into a vertical wall or a gable end this type of loft conversion makes use of the existing structure to create a spacious and versatile new area. Homeowners can use this conversion to add living space, increase property value and improve the look of their home.
A hip to gable conversion not only increases the floor and head height of the attic space but can turn restrictive corners into a bright and comfortable living area. When combined with other construction techniques like a rear dormer the possibilities are endless and you can add extra bedrooms and bathrooms ideal for a growing family or as an investment for future resale.
Plus the new windows in the gable end wall bring in loads of natural light and the attic space feels open and airy. Converting your loft this way could be the answer to not having to do a costly and complicated home extension and make the most of your existing footprint and turn dead attic space into a beautiful and functional part of your home.
The benefits of a hip to gable loft conversion show up most when you look at the extra space. On average a conversion can add 20 square meters of floor space and up to 2 meters of roof height so you get a significant increase in habitable area of your home. So areas that were previously just for storage or left unused can become part of the household – a new master bedroom with en-suite, a private home office, a kids den or a peaceful space for exercise and meditation.This conversion can accommodate multiple windows and the room will feel bright and airy. Plus with clever design this can add significant value to your property so a smart economic move.
A hip to gable loft conversion is not just a way to add more living space it’s a sound financial decision too. Estimates suggest it can add 10-25% to the value of your property. Homebuyers are looking for homes that use all their space and an upgraded and spacious loft adds that extra appeal. For homeowners this means more than just extra room it’s a solid investment with good returns.
In urban areas where space is at a premium a loft conversion can often be more cost effective than moving to a bigger property.
A cleverly designed loft conversion could be the USP in a competitive market and increase both your living space and future selling price.
Beyond the practical benefits a hip to gable conversion can have a dramatic impact on the look of your property. The change from hipped to gable gives the building more volume and a modern touch to the front elevation. The windows in the gable end not only bring in light but also break up the wall and add character and charm to the home.
This design feature does more than just look good; it increases the property’s visibility and by extension its value. The conversion symmetrises the exterior especially useful when both sides of a semi-detached house get converted. Overall it positions your home as a desirable property in the market and can be the difference in a sale if you decide to move on.
In summary a hip to gable loft conversion is more than just a home improvement it’s a investment in your property’s space, value and beauty. Whether it’s the extra square footage, the economics of increased value or the pure joy of an upgraded aesthetic it’s a conversion that will make your home a bigger, brighter and more lovely space for everyone to enjoy.
Basic Hip to Gable Conversion
This is the simplest conversion where you replace the sloping sides of the hipped roof with a vertical gable end. This opens up the attic space, increases the head height and makes the area more useable.
Suitable for: Properties with plenty of loft space and a suitable roof structure. This is the most cost effective and simplest of the conversions.
Cost: £2,000 - £4,000 per m2 depending on the size of the property and the project.
HIp to Gable Flat Roof Dormer
A box shaped extension from the back of the roof. Creates more space and more light.
Advantages: A flat roof dormer is the most cost effective way to gain space. Simple design blends in with the existing roof, it’s a popular choice for many conversions.
Hip Roof Dormer
A hip roof dormer maintains the existing roof pitch and gains more space. More head height and natural light.
Advantages: It blends in with the existing roof, looks good and gains more space.
Gable Fronted Dormer
A vertical gable end, a triangular shape. Extends out from the existing roofline, more space inside.
Advantages: Gable fronted dormer adds both looks and floor space. Good for creating a unique loft area.
Hip to Gable Mansard Conversion
A mansard conversion replaces the existing roof with a mansard roof, nearly flat on both sides. More head height and floor area.
Advantages: Mansard conversions gain more space than dormers. Suitable for bigger projects where you want to gain more.
Planning Permission: Full planning permission required.
When you’re considering a hip to gable loft conversion planning permission is a key consideration. Understanding and following the local rules will keep you on the right side of the law and the conversion process will be smoother.
In most cases a hip to gable loft conversion is Permitted Development which means you don’t need full planning permission. However this is subject to:
To be sure you’re on the right track it’s always best to consult with a loft conversion specialist or your local planning authority to confirm the details of your particular situation.
Permitted Development rights and other regulations can vary depending on where you live.
For example:
Given these variations it’s always best to contact your local council for the latest information for your area before you start work. And stay informed of any changes to the regulations that may affect your project.
Remember a successful hip to gable loft conversion not only adds valuable and useable space to your home but also requires attention to the planning rules so your new living space is legal, safe and secure. Whether you want an extra bedroom, a master suite, or additional living or workspace, keep these in mind and you’ll be on the road to a smooth and successful loft conversion.
A hip to gable loft conversion is a great way to add extra living space, such as an extra bedroom or master bedroom without extending beyond the original roof slope. But before you convert your hipped roof into a gable end you need to know what the cost will be.
A hip to gable loft conversion is a big investment but it’s worth it for the extra space. Here’s what you might expect to pay:
When you budget for your loft extension you need to factor in the following:
Starting hip to gable conversion is a big financial decision. But with a clear budget and understanding of the costs you can make informed decisions to get that dream space in your loft.
When you’re starting hip to gable loft conversion you need to understand the typical timeframe for the build. Every project is different and will have its own requirements and challenges but here’s a general timeframe that most people can expect.
You can expect a hip to gable loft conversion to take around 2-3 months under ideal conditions. The timeframe breaks down into:
Please note this is just a general guideline and not a exact schedule.
Not all hip to gable loft conversions take the same amount of time and various elements can add or subtract from the timeframe:
When you’re looking to increase your loft space a hip to gable loft conversion is a great way to get extra rooms and value in your property. But it’s not the only way to increase your living space. Depending on your house type, budget and design preferences there are other options to consider.
One such option is the side dormer conversion – a small extension out from the sloping part of the roof. This type of conversion is used for practical reasons such as creating stair access to the loft space. It’s not as much space as a hip to gable conversion but it’s a good option for houses that can’t accommodate more extensive work.
Cost is a big factor when planning a loft conversion. Hip to gable loft conversions are more expensive due to the complexity; they can cost around 20% more than a standard rear dormer conversion. But if you want to get extra space without the higher price tag a rear dormer conversion might be the better option. This is especially true for mid-terraced houses that don’t have a sloping side where rear dormers can open up the loft without changing the exterior of the roof.
For those on a tighter budget or with properties where external changes are not possible or not allowed a Velux loft conversion might be the middle ground. Velux windows are installed along the existing roof line so you get more light without the same level of architectural change. This won’t give you the same amount of extra space but it’s a cost effective way to get an extra bedroom or office that still feels open and airy.
And for those who want to go all out, combining a hip to gable extension with a dormer or a mansard extension will give you vast amounts of space, but at a higher cost. This is the holy grail of loft conversions – the grand master bedroom with en-suite, the spacious home office or the extra living space that can adapt to your changing needs.
The world of dormer loft conversions is full of choice, the variations as numerous as the houses they sit on. Large ‘box dormers’ are a popular choice for many; their volume gives you plenty of headroom and internal space. This makes them a great option for properties where head height is key.
Smaller properties, especially those with hipped roofs, might need to go for smaller dormers. Since the roof slopes in towards the top these dormers need to be sized to fit into the available space. But even so they can still give you extra space and make the loft conversion more usable.
Combining a hip to gable conversion with a dormer extension will give you the most amount of usable space in your loft. This single approach will turn what was once wasted roof space into a full size room – or two. If aesthetics are as important to you as functionality then pitched dormers might be your answer. They fit in with the existing roof lines so beautifully and add charm as well as space.
An L-Shape dormer is another option, an outrigger back addition common to Victorian and Edwardian terraced houses. They wrap around the property giving you extra living space for multiple new rooms all behind the same exterior façade of your property.
A loft conversion is more than just extra space – it’s about adding value, beauty and efficiency to your home. When considering alternatives to hip to gable conversions or any loft conversion type remember these changes are an investment that will increase your property’s value if you decide to sell in the future.
Windows are key to converting loft space – they bring in natural light and can make your home look amazing. A well placed window can frame a view and make your new loft space feel connected to the outside world.
Plus you get to keep all your outside space. In urban areas where gardens are a precious commodity this is a big plus.
Conversion projects also require new insulation, a practical aspect that meets building regulations and will improve the thermal efficiency of your home. Think of the cosy winter nights and cooler summer days and not to mention the potential reduction in energy bills.
When converting your loft into a living space you also need to consider the standards for natural light and ventilation. These will affect how you use the space but are also critical to creating a space that is habitable and enjoyable.
When planning your loft conversion take a moment to consider the alternatives. Each has its own advantages whether it’s a cost effective Velux conversion or a luxurious and spacious dormer addition. Your decision will shape your home’s future so choose the path that suits your dreams and lifestyle.
A hip to gable loft conversion is an exciting project that can turn your loft space into a beautiful and functional part of your home. The scope of this work is to re-configure the sloping side of your hip roof into a full vertical gable wall, maximising head height and creating more space. Before you can enjoy this extra living space there are several key steps to go through to make your loft conversion safe, legal and structurally sound.
Firstly all loft conversions including hip to gable fall under Building Regulations. This means before any work starts you’ll need to submit detailed structural drawings and calculations, usually prepared by an architect or structural engineer. These documents will prove that your design is strong and won’t compromise the structure of your home.
As you prepare for the conversion consider the current head height in your loft. The general rule of thumb is to have a minimum clearance of 2.3 meters to make the space comfortable and practical as a living space.
Plus updating the insulation in your loft is not only a requirement under Building Regulations but will also improve the energy efficiency of your home. This is a key part of the process so plan for it from the start.
Lastly consider the hidden costs of a loft conversion. This includes plans, reports, inspections, scaffolding and skip hire etc. Try to factor these in from the beginning to avoid any surprises.
The planning stage of your hip to gable loft conversion starts with a professional site visit to your property to lay the groundwork for the big transformation. During this phase detailed and well thought out plans are created to outline the build process.
You will usually need to apply for a Lawful Development Certificate or full planning permission from your local authority. Getting this planning consent is a key part of being legal and having peace of mind. You also need to resolve any legal issues, such as getting consent from adjoining owners or addressing covenants that affect your conversion.
Don’t underestimate the importance of a structural engineer at this stage. Their role is key in checking your conversion plans are structurally sound and providing the calculations and drawings required by builders.
As you move into the build phase of your hip to gable loft conversion the focus is on following the detailed build control drawings and structural calculations. These are crucial to ensure all work is compliant with Building Regulations.
Before the hammers start all the paperwork for your project needs to be submitted to Building Control for approval so you can get started.
Also if your plans affect neighbouring properties you may need to appoint a Party Wall Surveyor to draft a Party Wall Award before you can start building.
Build times can vary but a hip to gable conversion will typically take 6-8 weeks to complete. Weather and project specifics will affect this. Costs will be between £35,000 and £75,000 depending on the size and complexity of the conversion.
As the build winds down the small details start to shine through and the finishing touches are applied to your loft conversion. Throughout the project we’ll keep you updated with progress and photos so you can see how it’s going and make any adjustments as needed.
Addressing issues quickly shows you care about customer satisfaction and workmanship. A clean and tidy site means smoother inspections and a better experience overall.
In the end the quality of the finished product reflects the craftsmanship and care that goes into the loft conversion and is a space that’s not only structurally sound but also looks great and can be enjoyed for years to come.
A hip to gable loft conversion is a great way for homeowners to add space to their homes. But it’s not without its challenges. One common issue is not enough head height which makes the loft space feel cramped and impractical for everyday use. One way to solve this is to do a hip-to-gable loft conversion which essentially extends the sloping side of a hip roof outwards and creates a new vertical wall and loads more headroom. Some homeowners may also consider raising the ceiling of the floor below as an alternative but it’s a more invasive and costly option.
When you’re planning a project of this scale it’s essential to have a realistic budget from the start. Create a clear spreadsheet or tracker of costs to avoid any financial surprises as you go. To protect against unexpected issues like structural problems or material price increases include a contingency fund – experts recommend 10-15% of the total budget. You can also save costs by going for simpler designs, basic finishes and cost effective materials without compromising on the overall quality of the conversion.
Before you start a hip to gable loft conversion you need to confirm the structural feasibility by talking to a loft conversion specialist. They’ll assess your plans and you can then move into the design stage with confidence.
Structural issues are common in any big home improvement project and a hip to gable loft conversion is no exception. A structural engineer is invaluable in resolving these. By getting a structural engineer on board early you’ll be able to identify any potential issues that could kill your project.
If foundation issues arise during the planning stage your structural engineer can suggest solutions to overcome these and ensure a smooth build. By producing a detailed structural report they can provide the calculations and drawings you need for your conversion to go ahead. This upfront planning gives you peace of mind and control over your budget and timeline so you can deal with issues before they become big problems.
When it comes to planning permission hip to gable loft conversions are often classed as permitted development (PD). This is a relief for many homeowners as full planning permission isn’t needed as long as your project meets certain criteria. However it’s essential to check if your property has any specific restrictions such as being listed or in a conservation area as these can affect your PD rights.
Before you start work contacting your local authority will give you clarity on the planning policy which will vary depending on any existing extensions to your property. Getting a lawful development certificate is a proactive step to ensure your conversion meets the legal requirements and this document will be a valuable asset if you decide to sell your property in the future.
There are design rules – your new loft conversion must be within a 50 cubic metre volume allowance for detached and semi detached homes and the roof pitch must match the existing roof. Homes must also meet certain criteria to qualify for PD rights including size thresholds and not being on designated land.
By dealing with these common issues and solutions in a thorough and methodical way you can have a smoother hip to gable loft conversion and a beautiful and functional addition to your home.
A hip to gable loft conversion is a great way to add space to your home by extending the sloped roof to form a vertical wall. This is particularly good for semi detached and detached houses as it gives loads of usable floor space. A hip to gable conversion can cost between £40,000 to £65,000 but adds loads of value to the property especially when combined with a dormer loft conversion for even more space.
The overall cost will also include internal stud walls, new stairs and building materials. As with other types of loft conversions (Mansard and Dormer) you will need to check planning regulations as you may need to submit a planning application depending on your property and location. A hip to gable conversion is a great option for homeowners looking for more loft conversion options to add to their living space.
Choosing the right builder is key to a successful loft conversion. At Danesfort we deliver quality on time and on budget. We have extensive experience working on loft conversions in the London area.
Danesfort ensures all projects comply with planning permissions and building regulations. We offer clear contracts that outline scope, timelines and payment terms so you’re fully informed from start to finish.
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