When you need more space in your home, most people consider moving house or adding a rear extension.
However, these aren't always the most appealing options; moving house can take many months, and it's often a stressful undertaking - and there's no guarantee that you'll find a buyer. Having an extension built will eat into your valuable outdoor space. It is also a more complex and time-consuming process, as it requires more materials, and foundations will have to be prepared.
One fantastic solution is to get Loft Crew to install a loft conversion, as there are several types to choose from, and these can be fitted in most properties.
But what if you have a trussed roof? Are trussed roof loft conversions possible?Thankfully, yes - in most cases! And with Loft Crew, you get a stunning, cleverly designed living space that will transform your home.
First, we need to understand what we mean by a 'truss roof' or 'trussed roof':
A trussed roof, also known as a "prefabricated roof truss system," is a common roofing structure in modern homes, especially those built after the 1960s. The roof trusses (timber supports) are inserted between the wooden beams to provide structural support, often in a W-shaped configuration.
Unlike traditional rafters, which are individually cut and assembled on-site, trusses are manufactured off-site to precise specifications. This makes them faster and easier to install, reducing construction time and cost.
The key feature of a truss is its series of connected triangles. These triangles distribute the weight of the roof evenly, creating a strong and stable structure without needing thick, heavy beams.
The triangular design also makes trusses lightweight, reducing the overall weight of the roof and potentially lowering material costs.
There are various types of trusses, each suited for different roof shapes and spans. Some common types include king post trusses, Fink trusses, and Pratt trusses.
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Converting a loft with a trussed roof presents several challenges, although they can be overcome with careful planning and skilful execution. Here are the main issues and their solutions:
The secret to making this work is to contact a reputable, professional loft conversion company, like Loft Crew!
While it's impossible to tell without knowing the full details of your project, it's fair to say that you'll require an investment of somewhere between £50 - £80,000.
Converting trussed roofs is more complicated than a standard loft conversion, which is why they generally cost more.
Various factors will affect the final cost, such as the size and complexity of the project, as well as the type of finish you choose. Also, the number of roof trusses that need to be replaced will influence the cost.
However, when you compare the pros and cons of getting a trussed roof loft conversion against those of having a full-scale rear extension added to your home, it's clear that the loft conversion is a more cost-effective solution.
If you need more information and advice regarding this, please call us for a friendly chat, and we'll be happy to go over the details with you. We also covered this in more detail in our post “how much does a loft conversion cost”.
There are dozens of reasons why a Loft Crew loft conversion is an excellent investment.
Here's a selection for you to consider:
For the most part, yes. This is due to the significant structural work that needs to take place, where the W-shaped beams will be replaced by A-shaped or even horizontal beams.
Other factors will play a part, such as size and scale, as well as the visual impact on the surrounding area.
Also, if your property is in a conservation area or you own a listed building, the rules are more stringent, and in some cases, permission will be denied, or the plans will have to be adapted.
Finally, regardless of anything else, you will require building regulations approval to meet minimum safety requirements.
Loft Crew will guide you through the planning application process and offer advice at each stage.
We cover this in more detail in our post “do you need planning permission for loft conversions”.
While trussed roof loft conversions are challenging, our dedicated team possesses the skills and experience to overcome each one and provide you with a comfortable living space that meets your requirements and your budget.
When you need more habitable space, give Loft Crew a call, and we'll work together with you and our professional team to design the perfect loft space and unlock the hidden potential in your home
A truss loft conversion transforms the trussed section of a roof into a liveable space by altering the structure. This process involves reinforcing the existing trusses or replacing them with a different support system to create additional living space.
The cost of a truss loft conversion in the UK varies, typically starting from around £20,000 to £40,000. Factors affecting the price include the size of the loft, design complexity, and the choice of finishes.
Most truss loft conversions fall under permitted development rights and don't need planning permission. However, if your design involves altering the roof's height or shape, you may require planning permission.
Truss loft conversions offer several benefits, including adding valuable living space, increasing property value, and enhancing energy efficiency with proper insulation.
Yes, truss loft conversions can significantly increase the value of your home, often by up to 20%, by adding extra living space such as bedrooms or bathrooms.
Truss loft conversions are possible on many types of houses, especially those built after the 1960s with trussed roofs. However, a structural assessment is necessary to determine feasibility.