Velux Loft Conversions: Light-Filled Attic Rooms
Brighten up your home with a Velux loft conversion. Learn how to maximise natural light in your attic, and discover what’s involved in terms of cost and planning.
A Velux loft conversion is a popular choice for homeowners looking to add extra living space without breaking the bank. It’s a lot more affordable than a dormer or Mansard loft conversion. Unlike those more complex and expensive conversions, a Velux conversion involves just installing rooflights or skylights, which is a much quicker and cheaper process.
Velux loft conversion adds roof windows to the existing roof without changing the shape, suitable for lofts with 2.2m headroom.
A velux loft conversion lets natural light into your loft and opens up design possibilities.
In this guide we’ll take you through everything you need to know about Velux loft conversions from process to planning permissions, costs to ROI. Let’s get started and unlock your loft space!
Velux loft conversions have changed the way we add living space. By turning unused attic space into roof windows these conversions bring in natural light and are a cost effective way to add more living space.
One of the biggest benefits is that Velux conversions don’t require planning permission, making the process easier. However, they must comply with building regulations for safety and structural integrity.
Efficiency is another plus. Velux windows keep your energy bills down by reducing heat loss, good for your pocket and the planet. They also provide ventilation for loft spaces that would otherwise get stuffy.
But not all roof spaces are suitable. A minimum roof height of 2.2m is recommended; if not you may have a big job to raise the roof structure.
Cost-wise, as of 2024, you can expect to budget between £20,000 and £50,000. This is based on the size, complexity, and materials used for your loft conversion.
With a Velux loft conversion you’re not just gaining space you’re improving your existing home and its appearance, a choice many agree is the simplest and most effective.
If you want to make the most of your attic space a Velux loft conversion might be the affordable option for you. Not only will it bring natural light into your once unused space but it won’t require major alterations to your roof structure.
Velux conversions keep your existing roof intact, inserting roof windows that follow the pitch of your roof, creating a smooth and attractive addition to your home. It’s an energy efficient choice too; these windows will reduce your energy bills by bringing in natural warmth and ventilation.
What’s great about Velux loft conversions is the impact on your property value. Adding Velux windows into your loft can increase your property’s value by up to 20% – that’s a large margin. For ROI homeowners can expect 50-60% return, it’s definitely a good investment.
Here’s a quick summary:
Velux loft conversions are a clever solution for those looking to unlock their roof space with more space, light and value.
If you’re looking to add living space to your home with a loft conversion a Velux option might be for you.
Turn your roof space into a comfortable and light filled extra room without the expensive or complicated renovation process.
Having a Velux loft conversion in 2024 is a great way to bring natural light into your home and make the most of your unused roof space. Financially it’s a commitment with the average cost for a full project in the UK ranging from £20,100 to £48,900. But every loft is different and so is every budget. For smaller Velux conversions of around 20m² to 30m² you’re looking at costs of £15,000 to £20,000 – turning snug spaces into living spaces. For a medium sized space of 30m² to 40m² you’re looking at costs of £20,000 to £30,000.
But what does all this cost? Initial surveys will be around £500-£1,500 and don’t forget to budget for planning permission which will be around £200-£400. The heavy lifting or structural work takes the biggest chunk of the budget, £10,000-£20,000. But remember your vision for the space can swing these numbers. The design complexity, the materials chosen, the number and type of Velux windows installed – each of these can vary from £500-£1,200 per unit and will depend on your project’s requirements and aspirations.
When budgeting for a Velux loft conversion there are several factors that can affect the cost. A mid sized area of 30m² to 40m² with 3-4 of these roof windows will cost around £20,000-£30,000. This includes labour, materials and the windows themselves.
Going larger, conversions of 40m² to 50m² (or more) start around £30,000 and go up to £45,000 or more. Here additional windows and the corresponding increase in materials and tradespeople’s time is what drives the price up.
Adding in features like the Cabrio Balcony Velux windows will also increase the cost, this is because of the premium for high end or specialist products. Choosing luxurious interior finishes and bespoke elements will also increase the budget. And if you want a self contained room with bathroom or kitchen facilities be prepared to add £6,000-£10,000 for the plumbing and design complexities.
Choosing a loft conversion type doesn’t just depend on personal preference but also on your property and what you want to get out of your investment. A Velux conversion £15,000-£20,000 is generally a more affordable option than the dormer or hip-to-gable conversions which start at £30,000.
The beauty of a Velux loft conversion is that it can use the existing roof space without changing the exterior of your home. A successful conversion requires a roof that’s not too shallow so you have enough vertical space to move around and a good looking outcome. Velux style conversions also require less construction work than others so less disruption and preservation of the exterior of your home.
It’s worth noting that geography can impact the final cost of your loft conversion. Areas with higher cost of living like London will see higher labour and material costs. In these areas a 30m² to 40m² Velux conversion will be hit by the local economic conditions and the price will be between £20,000-£30,000 and a 40m²+ loft will start from £30,000-£45,000 and upwards.
These prices are not fixed as each project will be affected by a combination of regional factors including the amount of structural work required and the interior finishes chosen. To get an accurate quote get in touch to understand the pricing for your project.
A Velux loft conversion isn’t just about adding more space it’s an investment in your property’s future. With an average increase in property value of 20-25% a conversion can add significant value to your living space and one of the best ROIs of any home improvement.
In the loft conversion pecking order Velux is the more affordable option but don’t be fooled this upgrade doesn’t compromise on added value. The clever installation of energy efficient Velux windows will not only save you energy costs but will also increase the value for potential buyers in the future. While the costs will vary depending on the specifics it’s not uncommon for the value added post conversion to exceed the initial cost when you come to sell.
A Velux loft conversion can be an exciting journey to add more living space to your home. One of the biggest advantages of choosing this type of loft conversion is the simplified planning and permits. A Velux conversion doesn’t require planning permission as it usually falls within Permitted Development Rights. As long as you don’t plan to alter the existing roofline or your property isn’t listed or in a conservation area you can avoid the formal planning permission route.
But if your property doesn’t have Permitted Development Rights or you want to go beyond these boundaries with your Velux conversion then the planning permission process becomes necessary. Here’s how:
With any loft conversion the goal is to add living space with minimum hassle and maximum impact. Knowing your planning permissions and building regulations will get you on the path to a seamless transformation of your attic into a bright and airy space filled with natural light through your new Velux roof windows.
A Velux loft conversion is an exciting project that will turn your unused roof space into a bright and functional living space. From dark attic to bright haven it’s all about a well planned design and build process. It starts with a survey of your house to create the initial plans that will be the blueprint of your project.
The design phase is where every detail matters. It’s where a dream becomes a reality in architectural terms. Architects and loft conversion experts will design the visual and structural elements of your new space. They will take the layout of your existing roof and design a space that maximises natural light using Velux roof windows to light up the dark recesses of your attic. This phase is crucial as they will assess the load bearing capacity of your walls, the roof pitch and any quirks in the roof structure that will affect your conversion.
Turning these design dreams into reality starts with an attic survey—a chance to talk about your loft conversion and the natural light it will bring. Headroom, accessibility and fire safety are all considered, so your design meets the building regulations. An architect will handle the head scratching world of permissions for you but always best to check, while Velux conversions often sit within development rights but always worth checking.
You may also need to get a Party Wall Agreement if your happy plans encroach on your neighbour’s territory. Once the paperwork is sorted your attic is ready to be transformed.
Choosing the right Velux windows for your attic space is like choosing the eyes for your home; they will determine how much natural light and fresh air enters your new room. Centre pivot or top hung, your choice will affect not only the look but the functionality of your windows. Centre pivots are versatile with different roof pitches while top hung windows give you an unobstructed view of the sky.
And let’s not forget modern living – energy efficiency. Velux windows are good at this too, with thermal technology to help reduce your energy bills and carbon footprint.
Loft conversion ideas often include increasing the energy efficiency of the space. Installing roof insulation and energy efficient windows will improve your home’s overall energy performance and reduce heating costs. This will make the loft more comfortable and increase your property’s EPC rating. While artificial light may still be needed to supplement the natural light from side facing windows, energy efficiency is a big win.
Finally, your loft conversion must comply with Building Regulations. It’s the stamp of approval for safety across the board – whether it’s the structural integrity that keeps your roof over your head or the fire safety that keeps your loved ones safe. All specifications must be submitted to the local building authority for regular inspections and the eventual issue of the all important completion certificate.
Heat insulation, ventilation, escape routes and electrics all fall under the legislation in Parts L, K, B and P of the regulations. It’s a happy marriage that ensures the space is safe, accessible and eco friendly. Don’t forget neglecting these regulations will not only cost you money but undo all your hard work.
Now you have the foundation steps laid out you can start your Velux loft conversion with confidence knowing your design and build process will work.
The key to a successful Velux conversion is a well thought out design. This design should take into account head height, the roof shape and the existing roof trusses so the space is functional and comfortable. By fitting Velux windows or rooflights you can increase natural light and ventilation without having to alter the roof slope. This is a more cost effective option if you want to add an extra bedroom or improve the usability of the loft floor.
When it comes to a Velux loft conversion building materials and the type of windows chosen are key. Remote control windows and rooflight loft conversions offer more functionality but come at a higher cost. Careful consideration of these factors will ensure the end result meets both style and practicality. The design should also include provision for extras such as upgrading the roof insulation or adding a skylight loft conversion.
When you start your Velux loft conversion journey make sure you start with some practical steps first.
Now you have the foundation steps laid out you can start creating that bright airy space in your unused loft.
Velux loft conversions allow you to create a multitude of lovely and practical rooms in your home’s unused attic space. They keep the roof structure intact and flood the space with natural light through their roof windows creating a warm and open feel.
Velux loft conversions not only add space to your living areas but add light and airiness to your home and turn the cost of a loft project into long term energy efficiency and increased value to your home. Whether you want a simple option or a more complex design, consulting with loft conversion specialists will ensure your conversion meets building regulations and uses all your home’s development rights.
A Velux loft conversion is a great way to add more space to your home. It uses roof lights to light the attic without changing the roofline so is a more cost effective option than a dormer loft conversion or gable loft conversion.
A Velux loft conversion is a smart decision for homeowners who want to use their underused attic space. This affordable option gives you extra living space, natural light and ventilation, makes the room feel airy and warm – all while being more energy efficient and potentially reducing your energy bills.
Most Velux conversions are Permitted Development so don’t require planning permission but you do need to comply with building regulations. A relief for many that such a big home improvement doesn’t come with so much red tape.
Remember while the average cost of a Velux loft conversion is relatively affordable £20,100-£48,900 adding an en suite will add an extra £4,000-£5,000. Despite the extra cost it’s a sound investment; the right loft conversion can add up to 20% to your property value – a great return for a more functional and beautiful home.
However, costs need to be understood. A Velux conversion is less expensive as it involves less structural work but there are still costs for the roof lights and finishing the space. A plan is key to managing these costs and designing the space.
Whether you want a sun filled bedroom, a stylish office or just extra space for relaxation talk to loft conversion specialists and they will help you navigate your project from concept to completion and make the most of your Velux loft conversion. A good plan should include how roof lights will be used to add extra living space. Consider energy saving features and artificial lighting to make the space comfortable and functional.
In summary a Velux loft conversion is a compromise of affordability and functionality. A Velux loft conversion will add space to your home at an affordable price. It requires minimal disruption and is cost-effective. It’s a great way to add extra living space and improve your home without the cost of a full loft conversion. Whether you need a practical solution or just want to see what’s possible with a loft conversion a Velux conversion may be for you.
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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