Dormers Loft Conversions

A dormer loft conversion is a structural extension that adds a box-shaped structure to a sloping roof. This creates more headroom and floor space, and lets in lots of natural light. A dormer loft conversion projects out vertically from the sloping section of the roof and uses standard windows — as opposed to rooflights. They can span the entire width of the roof, or simply feature a couple of smaller dormer windows spaced at regular intervals. This is a great way to add headroom, with its box-like structure creating an easy-to-use space with flat ceilings and walls.

Benefits of dormer loft conversions

Headroom: Creates more headroom in a cramped attic.
Light: Windows face outwards, allowing lots of natural light.
Ventilation: Good light and ventilation.
Space: Creates a large amount of additional internal space.

Types of dormer loft conversions

Flat roof dormer

A flat roof dormer conversion is a structural extension that creates a box-shaped space in a flat roof by projecting vertical walls from the slope of the roof. It's a popular loft conversion option that can add headroom, natural light, and ventilation.

More space: Creates more usable floor area and headroom.
Natural light: Dormer windows let in lots of natural light.
Ventilation: Dormers provide good ventilation.
Inexpensive: Flat roof dormers are cheaper than other types of loft conversions.
Straight walls and flat ceilings: Creates a classic room shape.
Versatile: Can be used for many different purposes.

Gabled dormer

A gabled dormer loft conversion is a roof extension that adds a pitched roof and vertical gable wall to a property. This creates a windowed structure that increases headroom and natural light.

Types of gabled dormer loft conversions

Single gable dormer: Extends one side of the roof.
Double gable dormer: Extends one side of the roof.
Gable with Juliet balcony: Includes a balcony for ventilation and view.
Hip roof dormer: Has three sloping sides instead of two, giving more horizontal space than a gable dormer

Hip roof dormer.

A hip roof dormer, or simply hipped dormer, features thee sloped planes which rise from each side of the frame and meet at the ridge. They are popular among many of our customers as they can be matched to the property’s original design.

Shed Dormer

angle. This dormer type offers more headroom than a gabled dormer but is likely to require a different roof covering to account for the shallow pitch.

Wall dormer

This dormer is less common than your typical roof dormer. Rather than setting the dormer partway up the roof’s slope, a wall dormer appears to be a continuation of the wall above eaves level.

Is a dormer possible on my property?

It’s entirely possible to fit a dormer into your attic providing the frame of your building features a stick-framed roof. Unfortunately, newer truss framed roofs don’t usually include any space to add a dormer. It’s also important that the planning of your dormer considers the weight of materials used and modifications in the roof’s construction.

Do I need planning permission for a dormer?

If you’re thinking of getting a dormer roof installed then the good news is that you don’t need planning permission under the following circumstances:

1. No part of the extension is higher than the highest part of your roof.
2. No part of the dormer projects more than 15cm out of any existing roof slope facing the road and is the principal or side elevation of your house.
3. No part of the dormer is closer than 0.5 meters to the roof ridge, eaves, partition wall or ridge.
4. The materials used are in keeping with your property’s original aesthetic.
5. Any window within 15 meters of the boundary with another house is obscure glazed and non-opening. Unless the opening parts are more than 1.7 meters above the floor of the room where the window is installed.
6. Your house is not in an area of conservation.