If you’re exploring ways to add space and value to your home, understanding the types of loft conversions available in the UK is the best place to start. A well-designed loft conversion can transform an unused attic into a bright bedroom, home office, or living space — without the need to move house.
However, not all loft conversions are the same. Factors like your property type, roof structure, budget, and local planning regulations play a major role in determining what’s possible. In areas such as Reading, Slough, Maidenhead, and across the Thames Valley, planning requirements and housing styles can differ significantly.
In this guide, we’ll clearly explain the main types of loft conversions, including dormer, hip-to-gable and mansard conversions, along with costs, pros and cons, timelines, and UK regulations — all in simple, homeowner-friendly language.
What Are the Main Types of Loft Conversions in the UK?
The main types of loft conversions in the UK are roof light, dormer, hip-to-gable, and mansard. Each option suits different house types, budgets, and planning rules. Choosing the right loft conversion depends on roof shape, available head height, planning permission, and how you plan to use the space.
Choosing the right option depends on:
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Roof shape and pitch
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Head height
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Planning permission rules
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Budget and intended use
Let’s break each one down clearly.
Roof Light (Velux) Loft Conversion
A roof light loft conversion adds windows to the existing roof without changing its shape, making it the simplest and most affordable option.
What it is
This conversion involves fitting Velux or roof windows into the existing roof slope without extending or altering the roof structure.
Best suited for
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Terraced and semi-detached houses
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Homes with sufficient head height
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Budget-conscious homeowners
Pros
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Lowest cost option
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Usually falls under permitted development
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Faster build time
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Minimal disruption
Cons
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Limited additional space
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Not suitable for low head height lofts
Typical cost (UK)
£25,000 – £35,000
Timeline
4–6 weeks
Dormer Loft Conversion Explained
A dormer loft conversion extends vertically from the roof, creating more floor space and headroom, making it one of the most popular loft conversion types in the UK.
What it is
A dormer creates a box-shaped extension from the roof slope, often added to the rear of the property.
Common dormer types
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Flat-roof dormer
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Gable-fronted dormer
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L-shaped dormer (popular for Victorian homes)
Best suited for
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Terraced and semi-detached houses
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Victorian and Edwardian properties
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Homes needing extra usable space
Pros
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Excellent headroom
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Flexible room layouts
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Often permitted development
Cons
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More expensive than roof light
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Visual impact if poorly designed
Typical cost (UK)
£35,000 – £55,000
Timeline
6–8 weeks
Hip-to-Gable Loft Conversion
A hip-to-gable loft conversion replaces a sloping roof side with a vertical wall, creating significantly more internal space.
What it is
This conversion extends the sloping “hip” of a roof into a vertical gable wall, commonly used on semi-detached and detached homes.
Best suited for
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Semi-detached houses
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End-of-terrace homes
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Properties with hipped roofs
Pros
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Major space increase
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Works well with rear dormers
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Adds strong resale value
Cons
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Requires structural work
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Often needs planning approval
Typical cost (UK)
£45,000 – £65,000
Timeline
8–10 weeks
Mansard Loft Conversion (UK Guide)
A mansard loft conversion alters the entire roof slope to create a near full-height living space, offering the most room but at the highest cost.
What it is
A mansard involves rebuilding one or both roof slopes to a near-vertical angle, usually with flat roofing on top.
Best suited for
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Urban properties
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Terraced houses
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Homes in conservation-led layouts
Pros
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Maximum internal space
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Looks like a full extra storey
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Ideal for multiple rooms
Cons
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Highest cost
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Always requires planning permission
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Longer construction time
Typical cost (UK)
£55,000 – £75,000+
Timeline
10–12 weeks
Planning Permission & UK Building Regulations
Most loft conversions fall under permitted development, but mansard and some hip-to-gable conversions usually require planning permission.
Key UK rules to know
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Permitted development limits volume increases
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No extension beyond the front roof slope
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Materials must match existing property
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Conservation areas have stricter controls
Building regulations cover
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Structural safety
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Fire safety and escape routes
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Insulation and energy efficiency
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Staircase design
A professional loft conversion company ensures full compliance, avoiding costly delays or enforcement issues.
Which Loft Conversion Is Right for Your House Type?
| House Type | Best Options |
|---|---|
| Terraced | Dormer, Mansard |
| Semi-detached | Dormer, Hip-to-Gable |
| Detached | Hip-to-Gable, Dormer |
| Bungalow | Dormer, Mansard |
How Long Does a Loft Conversion Take?
Most UK loft conversions follow this timeline:
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Design & planning: 3–6 weeks
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Approvals & regulations: 4–8 weeks
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Construction: 4–12 weeks
Total project time: 8–16 weeks, depending on complexity.
Costs vs Value: Is a Loft Conversion Worth It?
According to UK property data, a well-executed loft conversion can increase home value by up to 20%, especially when adding a bedroom and bathroom.
Beyond value, homeowners benefit from:
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No moving costs
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Better space efficiency
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Improved lifestyle flexibility
Final Thoughts
Understanding the different types of loft conversions helps you make confident, informed decisions about your home. Whether you’re considering a simple dormer or a full mansard conversion, the right approach depends on your property, budget, and long-term goals.
Thinking about a loft conversion in Reading, Slough, Maidenhead, or the Thames Valley?
Speak with TACMAN Developers for expert guidance, compliant desig,n and high-quality construction from start to finish.