What is a side dormer loft conversion?
A side dormer loft conversion is normally the same shape as a rear dormer conversion but is situated on the side of the property. The side existing slope is removed and built up vertically from the rear elevation. Side dormers are sometimes built directly up from the properties lower brick wall or in some cases, they are stepped in slightly to ensure the loft conversion adheres to the local council’s regulations.
If the property is detached, you can sometimes maximise the space even more by constructing a side dormer on both sides of the roof (as per the photo below). Although side dormer roofs may seem flat and are even called flat roofs, the external layer of the roof does in fact have a slight slope to allow for rainwater to run off and fall into its gutter. The dormers internal ceilings remain completely level.
Benefits of a side dormer extension
A side dormer conversion can turn a small dark loft into an amazing bright, open space. This new space can be used for bedrooms, bathrooms, or even that large office you’ve always dreamed of. Another popular option for side dormers is to add a triangular-glazed window to the rear of the property for that extra special wow factor!
Exterior finish options
The exterior finish of a side dormer conversion can either be brick, tile hung, slate hung, rendered or cladded. If your choice is to go for tile or slate, the type will be chosen on site to ensure they match the existing roof as close as possible. If the plan is to do a rendered finish, we have skilled plasterers who can create lots of different render designs to match the existing finish. If you decide on brick, the brick used will match your existing brickwork. Other external finishes such as fascias, soffits, gutters and windows will also be matched to the existing finish — this way, the side dormer conversion will look like it was part of the original build!
Exterior finish options
The exterior finish of a side dormer conversion can either be brick, tile hung, slate hung, rendered or cladded. If your choice is to go for tile or slate, the type will be chosen on site to ensure they match the existing roof as close as possible. If the plan is to do a rendered finish, we have skilled plasterers who can create lots of different render designs to match the existing finish. If you decide on brick, the brick used will match your existing brickwork. Other external finishes such as fascias, soffits, gutters and windows will also be matched to the existing finish — this way, the side dormer conversion will look like it was part of the original build!
Will you need planning permission for a side dormer conversion?
If your property has permitted development rights, a side dormer conversion can be built under a Certificate of Lawfulness. This certificate means that, as long as you build within the council’s guidelines, you do not need to wait for the application to be approved before work commences.
If you do not have permitted development rights, you will need to obtain planning permission. With planning permission, you cannot start work until it has been granted. Once a planning application is validated by the council, it should issue a decision after eight weeks.
Here at The Loft Room, we will ascertain exactly which permission is needed and we will submit the relevant applications on your behalf to obtain the correct approval.
Call us now for a FREE no-obligation quotation on 0800 002 9291
