So you want a loft conversion, but all of the quotes you have had are too expensive? You are not the only one. It is true that a well-constructed and kitted out loft conversion will set you back a pretty penny, but there are ways you can save on this cost. For example, you can take care of the waste disposal yourself by finding a construction dumpster rental that will dispose of your waste after the project is complete. Alternatively, you can source the materials for your renovation yourself as opposed to relying on the contractors. Its important to not lose heart as you can still get the extra space you desperately need, improve the value of your home and save money while you are doing it. You just need to follow our top tips for saving money on your loft conversion.
- DIY – While you may not be capable of constructing stairs, adding dormers or installing beams – you may be able to lay flooring, fit a bathroom, plaster walls or even just do the painting. Some loft construction companies are happy to do the main bulk of the work at a reduced price – allowing you to complete the cosmetic work at a later date as you can afford it. Doing as much of the work yourselves will always save you money – although you should be very clear with your builder where their responsibility stops and yours starts.
- Bathrooms – Take note of a few bathroom renovations ideas according to the changes you need to make in your bathroom. You might have to restore it completely if different parts are broken and the fixtures aren’t working well. Else, you could change it to improve the functionality it offers. Aside from that, you might have to accommodate more people for which certain changes will become necessary. Regardless, you will have to assess all the renovations you intend to make in order to land on a ballpark figure of the expenses involved.
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It would be great to create a master bedroom with an en-suite, but the cost of doing so could be huge. The additional plumbing requirements can add to your overall bill – especially if you can’t find affordable Plumbing Companies in your area and the plumbing is tricky. This is without the additional cost of the bathroom fittings, the tiling, the flooring, and the air extraction. So, instead of installing a completely new bathroom with new fixtures and fittings, you can do a basic renovation to revamp your existing bathroom. You can look for an affordable plumber long beach or one in your vicinity to change old taps and faucets, upgrade plumbings and drainage, replace the water closet, geyser, etc. Probably, these modifications won’t put a hole in your pocket, and you will get to experience luxury at home.
- Insulation – Do you know how insulation works in your home? It works by trapping air molecules within the insulation material. Upon getting trapped, the movement of the air molecules becomes much more restricted, which further slows the transfer of heat and reduces energy use. In order to avoid increased heating bills or cooling bills, it is crucial to ensure you have the best possible insulation on your loft conversion. This will save you money in the long run. The last thing you will want to do is pull down the ceiling to add more insulation at a later date.
- Planning permission – Keeping your loft conversion within planning rules will mean that you will not need to apply for planning permission (in most cases). The addition of dormer windows or any alteration to the roof line will lead to architects drawings and planning applications – lengthy and expensive.
- Stairs – There are many different design of stairs which are suitable for a loft conversion. These can include very expensive and beautiful bespoke options which are very costly. Choosing an off the shelf version which is simple, but structurally sound, is a great way to save money. Carefully choosing where the stairs will go to minimise disruption to downstairs rooms is also a good idea.
- The right builder – Getting plenty of quotes and choosing a builder who you trust and who will provide you with a set cost is a good way to save money. Sometimes choosing the cheapest builder is not wise – you may be asked to pay extra as the project carries on or there could be problems at the end which you will need to rectify. Go with a builder who is recommended, and who you trust. Then start negotiating on price.