What is a truss loft?
Does your home have a truss loft? If so, you might be wondering what it is and if it can be converted into a useable living space. A conversion can be more challenging with a truss roof. However, it’s still possible when you hire an experienced company to carry out the work. Choose a loft conversion specialist carefully so you know that the work will be carried out to the highest standards. Read on to find out what is a truss loft and how it can impact your loft conversion dreams.
What is a truss roof?
Truss roofs are different from other roof designs due to their ‘W’-shaped rafters. These support both the load of the roof and the floor structure of the loft. Most houses built after the mid-1960s feature a truss roof. The main attraction of these roofs is their low cost due to the limited materials used. However, the downside is that they have a shallow pitch that only allows for basic storage. A truss roof needs adapting significantly for a conversion.
Can a truss loft be converted?
“What is a truss loft?” is such a common question, and that’s because the design of a truss loft means that it’s generally more challenging to convert. The reason for this is that the structural timbers are essentially there to hold up the roof. Plus, because the trusses take up most of the space in the loft, the entire structure needs strengthening before it can be converted. The height of the roof may be too low too. This means it might need to be raised to accommodate a loft conversion. Usually, this is only possible in detached properties and might still need planning permission.
The issues surrounding truss loft conversions puts many people off enquiring about them. However, it’s important to know that they can still be carried out. Truss lofts are now commonplace, with many properties built after the 1960s having them.
How is a truss loft conversion carried out?
Normally, to convert a truss loft, the ‘W’-shaped trusses need replacing with ‘A’-shaped trusses or horizontal beams. Extra rafters and floor beams may need adding to strengthen the current loft structure whilst allowing a larger living area to be created. Taking care of the roof’s load is the most important thing. Rather than simply removing the trusses and installing some plasterboard, steel or timber ‘I’ beams need installing across the length of the floor to strengthen the roof and retain the triangular strength. The triangle frame is pushed back towards the low end of the roof.
Does a truss loft conversion require planning permission?
In most cases, a truss loft conversion won’t require planning permission from the local council. Planning permission is only usually necessary if the new dormer window is facing out towards the front street or if it’s a listed building. If it needs planning permission, our truss loft conversion specialists can assist you. We’ll provide expert guidance on how to obtain it from your local council. We can help you fill out any forms or paperwork when applying for planning permission for your loft conversion. We make sure the application process goes smoothly from start to finish.
Even if planning permission isn’t necessary for your loft conversion, you’ll still need to obtain building regulations approval. Building regulations are there to ensure that a loft conversion is safe, structurally sound, has reasonable insulation and is fire safe. You (or your builder) will need to apply for building regulations approval before commencing the project. Once approved, a building control surveyor will perform site inspections.
Truss loft conversions in Leeds
If your home has a trussed roof, this doesn’t mean you can’t have the loft conversion you’re dreaming of. However, it’s important to hire a company that has plenty of experience at hand. Since converting a truss loft can be such a challenging endeavour, it’s essential that the firm you choose has completed similar projects before. This will ensure that they know how to address any issues that might arise when converting your truss loft. You can relax in the knowledge that they will carry out structural modifications in a correct and safe manner.
If you’re looking for a company that specialises in truss loft conversions in Leeds, look no further than AKB Lofts. A leading provider of quality loft conversions in West Yorkshire, we have carried out hundreds of loft conversions over the years, building a fantastic reputation for our quality workmanship. Some companies don’t feel confident converting truss lofts, often turning down these projects. However, we have a great deal of expertise in this area, making us best placed to tackle the job and the issues it may present.
Take a look at the recent projects on our website to find out more about the quality of our loft conversions. We’ve carried out loft conversions of all kinds over the years, converting loft spaces of all shapes and sizes. You can also view testimonials from our clients to find out what level of service you can receive when you hire AKB Lofts.
Contact us
Now you know what is a truss loft, you may want to find out if you can get the conversion you’ve been dreaming of. To learn more about our truss loft conversions in Leeds, get in touch today. Call us on 0113 436 0357 to talk to one of our friendly team. Alternatively, you can reach us by sending us a message via the website and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can. We can provide you with a free quote and all the expert advice that you need when embarking on a truss loft conversion.