Right now, loft conversions are more popular than ever, with some estimates suggesting around four in ten houses in London have had one! And it’s not hard to see why – they’re a brilliant way to add space, value, and functionality to your home without the hassle of moving house. However, one of the major stumbling blocks for a lot of homeowners is how much time they’ll need to dedicate to the construction of their conversion. Understandably, many people don’t want construction teams in and around their property for weeks on end, especially if they’re working from home or have young children.
So, in this article, we’ll be explaining exactly how long you can expect the different types of loft conversions to take, using our extensive experience delivering loft conversions in Watford and the surrounding areas. Whether you’re dreaming of a dormer conversion or a sleek VELUX® option, we’ll give you the complete timeline breakdown so you can plan accordingly. So, without further ado, how long does a loft conversion take?
How Long Does A Loft Conversion Take To Complete?
The short answer? It depends! But don’t worry – we’re not going to leave you hanging with that frustratingly vague response. While every project is unique, there are some typical timelines you can expect for different types of conversions. We’ll break down everything from initial planning to final sign-off, plus highlight the factors that might speed things up or slow them down along the way.
Here’s what we’ll be covering in this guide:
- How Long Does It Take For A Loft Conversion?
- What Is The Typical Loft Conversion Timeline?
- How Long Does A Dormer Loft Conversion Take?
- How Long Does A Velux Loft Conversion Take?
- How Long Does A Hip To Gable Loft Conversion Take?
How Long Does It Take For A Loft Conversion?
We know you’ve probably scrolled straight to this section looking for a definitive answer – we don’t blame you! The truth is, the length of time a loft conversion will take depends on a wide range of factors, from the type of conversion you’re choosing to the weather conditions during construction.
That said, you can expect the average loft conversion to take around 8 weeks from start to finish. However, this timeline can vary significantly depending on the type of conversion you’re getting (we’ll dive into the specifics of each type later in this article).
In our years of delivering loft conversions in Hemel Hempstead and beyond, we’ve seen all sorts of things that can impact the progress of a conversion. Here are some of the most common factors that might extend your timeline:
- Planning Permission Issues: While most loft conversions fall under permitted development rights, some projects will require full planning permission. This can be a lengthy process, sometimes adding several weeks to your project timeline. The good news? This can often be accelerated by working with a team that knows what they’re doing and has experience navigating the planning process efficiently (like us!). For more detailed information about planning permission requirements, check out our comprehensive guide on converting a loft into a bedroom.
- Staircase Placement: Figuring out the best place for the staircase to go in a loft conversion is genuinely one of the trickiest aspects of the entire project! In some properties, the solution is obvious from the get-go, but in others, it requires careful consideration and sometimes creative problem-solving. This planning stage is crucial and can occasionally delay progress if multiple options need to be explored. You can learn more about the complexities of staircase placement in our article about where loft conversion stairs go.
- Weather Conditions: Let’s face it – the British weather isn’t always on our side! Weather conditions can significantly slow the progress of a loft conversion, particularly during the external work phase. Heavy rain, snow, or strong winds can make it unsafe to work on the roof, and we’ll never compromise on safety. This is why we always try to schedule as many projects as possible during the summer months when conditions are generally more favourable.
- Supply Chain Issues: Unfortunately, the UK has been struggling with supply chain problems for several years now, and this can occasionally lead to delays with material deliveries for loft conversions. While we work hard to anticipate and plan around these issues, sometimes unexpected delays are simply beyond anyone’s control.
What Is The Typical Loft Conversion Timeline?
If your loft conversion runs smoothly without any major hiccups, you can expect it to follow this general timeline. Keep in mind that these stages may vary slightly depending on the type of conversion you choose, but this gives you a solid framework for what to expect:
Design & Planning (2-3 weeks)
This initial stage is often the longest, but it’s absolutely crucial for ensuring everything runs smoothly later on. During this phase, we’ll conduct detailed site surveys, submit any necessary planning applications, and handle building regulation submissions. While it might feel like a long time to wait before seeing any physical progress, getting this stage right saves time and headaches later!
Structural Work (1 week)
This is when things start to get exciting! This stage involves everything needed to get the project properly underway, including scaffolding erection, delivery of materials, and floor reinforcement work. You’ll definitely know construction has begun at this point!
External Work (2 weeks)
This stage is likely to vary the most depending on the type of conversion you’ve chosen. If you’ve opted for a dormer conversion, this will be a more intensive stage as significant alterations will be made to your roof structure. If you’ve chosen a VELUX® conversion, this stage will focus on fitting the new windows. Regardless of conversion type, weatherproofing is completed during this crucial phase.
Internal Construction (1 week)
Now we’re getting to the stage where your loft really starts to feel like a proper living space! This phase involves creating internal walls and partitions, installing insulation throughout the space, and fitting all the essential plumbing and electrical systems. It’s amazing how quickly the space transforms during this week.
Plastering & Finishing (Less than a week)
This stage is fairly self-explanatory but no less important! It involves plastering all surfaces, installing skirting boards, and fitting internal doors. By the end of this phase, your loft conversion will be starting to look like a proper room.
Decorating & Finishing Touches (1 week)
As the project nears its close, it’s time to get a bit more creative! This is when painting and decorating takes place, and we install all the final fixtures and fittings that will make your new space truly feel like home.
Sign Off (Less than a week)
Finally, your project undergoes its final inspections and receives building regulations sign-off. Once this is complete, you’re officially ready to enjoy your beautiful new living space!
How Long Does A Dormer Loft Conversion Take?
Dormer conversions often take the longest of all conversion types, and there’s a good reason for that! They involve significant structural work on the roof, fundamentally changing its shape and creating substantial additional space. The complexity of this type of conversion means that both the external and internal work phases typically take longer than other options.
Dormer conversions can be expected to take longer on detached or semi-detached houses, particularly larger properties where more extensive structural work is required. Similarly, older properties with poor internal structure or unusual roof configurations may require additional time for reinforcement and structural modifications.
Expected timeline: 6-8 weeks
How Long Does A Velux Loft Conversion Take?
VELUX® conversions are often the quickest type of conversion because they involve the least structural work and typically create a more compact living space than dormer alternatives. Since they work with your existing roof structure rather than significantly altering it, the external work phase is considerably shorter.
However, VELUX® conversions are most likely to take longer on older terraced Victorian or Edwardian properties. These homes often have limited head height and complex roof structures that can present unique challenges during installation. Despite this, they’re still generally the fastest option available.
Expected timeline: 4-6 weeks
How Long Does A Hip To Gable Loft Conversion Take?
Hip to gable conversions typically sit somewhere in the middle of the other two conversion types in terms of timeline. They involve more structural alterations than VELUX® conversions but generally less extensive work than full dormer conversions.
These conversions are most likely to take longer on detached properties with hipped roofs on multiple sides, as this may require a double hip to gable conversion to maximise the available space effectively. The additional structural work involved in these more complex projects naturally extends the timeline.
Expected timeline: 5-7 weeks
Streamlined Conversions With DJ Moore Lofts
At DJ Moore Lofts, we pride ourselves on delivering efficient, well-organised conversions that minimise disruption to your daily life. Through careful planning, experienced project management, and strong relationships with our suppliers, we often complete projects within just 5 weeks – faster than the industry average!
Our team’s extensive experience means we can anticipate potential challenges before they become problems, and our streamlined processes ensure every phase of your conversion runs as smoothly as possible. We understand that having building work carried out in your home is a big commitment, which is why we work so hard to complete projects quickly without ever compromising on quality.
Ready to transform your loft into the extra space you’ve been dreaming of? We’d love to discuss your loft conversion plans and provide a more detailed timeline based on your specific property and requirements. Get in touch with our friendly team today to arrange your site survey!