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Loft Types
Side Dormer Loft Conversion
What is a Side Dormer Loft Conversion?
A side dormer loft conversion is similar in shape to a rear dormer but is located on the side of the property. The existing slope on the side is removed and replaced with a vertical structure extending from the rear elevation. In some cases, side dormers are built directly above the lower brick wall of the property, while in others, they may be set back slightly to comply with local council regulations.
For detached properties, it’s sometimes possible to maximize space even further by adding side dormers on both sides of the roof (as shown in the photo below). While side dormer roofs may appear flat, they actually have a slight slope to ensure rainwater drains properly into the gutter. Inside, the dormer’s ceilings remain perfectly level.
Benefits of a Side Dormer Conversion
A side dormer loft conversion is similar in shape to a rear dormer but is located on the side of the property. The existing slope on the side is removed and replaced with a vertical structure extending from the rear elevation. In some cases, side dormers are built directly above the lower brick wall of the property, while in others, they may be set back slightly to comply with local council regulations.
For detached properties, it’s sometimes possible to maximize space even further by adding side dormers on both sides of the roof (as shown in the photo below). While side dormer roofs may appear flat, they actually have a slight slope to ensure rainwater drains properly into the gutter. Inside, the dormer’s ceilings remain perfectly level.
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?
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.
What Loft Is Best For You?
No matter if you are considering a Rear Dormer, Mansard, L-Shape Dormer, Hip to Gable, Velux or Piggyback conversion, we’ll work with you to ensure you get the perfect type of loft conversion for you.
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