A loft living space is one of the most popular features of modern luxury homes. Moreover, loft conversions are proving more and more popular among homeowners with residential properties with little space to expand outwards. Normally such houses are urban properties, and with the right renovation they can fetch a lot on the property market. And part of that renovation is very often the loft conversion, offering as it does the chance to expand the living space, the number of bedrooms, and the overall value of the home as well adding a feature that, at the moment, could not be trendier.
But as popular and attractive as loft conversions are, there are a number of things that can go wrong, either at the time when the loft is being converted or afterwards. CityHome Collective, a Salt Lake City-based real estate brokerage with expertise in luxury homes in Salt Lake, lofts, and condos, say that these problems are nearly always avoidable, but that there may be some downsides to living in a loft conversation even if there have been no problems with the construction.
Problems and Downsides
It is a great idea to become acquainted with the potential problems with loft conversion and some of the downsides to loft living. Wising up on the former will allow you to avoid making the mistakes that many have made before you and becoming acquainted with the latter will help you decide if you really want a loft conversion – or if you want to be that member of the family sleeping in it after the conversion has been completed.
Leaning about the myriad pitfalls and potential downsides of converted lofts will also allow you to cast a more critical eye if you are a potential buyer viewing properties that have one installed.
Loft Conversion Problems
Here follows some of the main loft conversion issues that plague those installing one for the first time:
The Wrong Design
There are several different kinds of loft conversions that can be potentially installed in a single property. However, more often than not, there will be one that is clearly the most suitable. To decide between a hip to gable, gable to gable, or dormer conversion, you need to first decide what the loft will be used for. Its intended use will suggest the design.
Lack of Space
Picking the wrong design can also make this second problem even worse. But generally speaking, you should not go for a loft conversion at all if you do not have the space. And yet, many people do, some even shrinking it further by picking the wrong design. Be careful here.
Loft Living Problems
Here are some of the disadvantages of living, sleeping, or working in a loft:
Headspace Issues
Lofts were not originally constructed for living purposes, and you might find that exposed beams and sloping roofs can be a bit of a hazard – especially if you’re tall. And there is only so much a contractor can do to alleviate these problems. It is just the shape of the house.
Too Much Sun
Windows that sit at a sloping angle at the top of the house can often catch the strongest rays of sunlight, leading to high temperatures and blinding light. This could well become intolerable on hot days, so you may want to invest in a set of blinds or drapes.
In summary, this article has focused on the negatives only to help you decide if a loft conversion is for you. They certainly have a lot to recommend them. It is just wise to be aware of the downsides too.
