Ireland's Leading Attic Conversion Specialists
Architecturally Designed & Certified
Call: 087 2224046
Loftstyle guidelines
- Guidlines
- Questions and answers
Q. Are all Loft Companies the same?
A. No. Of course not. Recent surveys suggest that over 70% of customers are dissatisfied with their builders at contracts end. So how can you be certain of choosing the right company for what is probably the largest, and most important addition to your home? Listed below is a check list of our qualities to use as a benchmark when comparing LOFT-STYLE with the others.
LOFT-STYLE SURVEYORS
Not for us some ex double-glazing salesmen who know barely more than the absolute basics (and explain even less) or builder’s vague estimates that can increase alarmingly as time goes on. Our initial design and costing survey will be done by properly trained personnel who actually know the intricacies of loft conversions, covering thoroughly those areas of planning, building and fire control that the discerning person needs to understand in order to proceed with confidence. They can offer various designs to suit different budgets and will give a definite price for the works required.
BUILDING TEAMS
These are hand-picked by the managing director for their experience in Attic conversions and their attitude to their work and our clients. Their instructions are simple - "Build each loft as it were your own". Teams unable to match this requirement are swiftly relegated to lesser companies. Our teams are properly paid, competent professionals supervised by senior management. Result - successful Attic conversions completed, and happy clients pleased that they made the best choice.
NEW STAIRES
How many times have we heard from our clients "It looks like part of the original house"? LOFT-STYLE carefully purpose-make each stair to its optimum design limits in beautiful good quality timber - not for our clients cheap softwood (or even worse, MDF). High quality stair parts finish the overall effect. Mahogany is also an option.
NEW FLOOR
Every inch gained in head height is obviously a bonus within the limits of your roof slopes. Where possible, Loft-style carefully suspend your new floor joists between the existing ceiling joists to maximize available height. Ridge beams are installed where necessary to optimum height; the beam profile being hidden from view, where possible, so as not to be intrusive. Attic conversions are required by the Building Regulations to provide fire protection.
ATTIC INSULATION
Terma Super-Quilt or better is installed, with interference fit between all sloping rafters. Result - better, longer lasting insulation and improved loft head height, because rafters will not need to be increased in depth to accommodate the more common loft insulation.
SKIRTING, ARCHITRAVES & FITTINGS
All our dormers come with standard 4" moulded skirting and 3" moulded architraves. Brass coated handles are standard on all doors and eaves access is provided by proper hinged fire doors (not screwed panels) finished with matching architraves.
FLAT ROOFS
Imperative to get this one right in the battle with Irish weather over many years to come! Loft-style’s 3-layer flat roof system is finished with a high performance HT180 roof felt, hot bitumen and granite chippings. Costly? Yes, but money well spent for the future service life of your roof and backed by our 10 year guarantee.
Maintenance Free Exteriors
Fitted to all our conversions, including windows (except where wood is chosen), fascia boards and window surrounds. Code 4 lead is used for all valleys, gullies etc. as standard. Redecoration at high level is extremely difficult and dormers cannot only look very tatty after just a few years, but their integrity can be impaired when high quality materials are not incorporated. Therefore we only use the best.
Dormer Exteriors
Unless specified, Loft-style will not re-use existing old tiles or roof timbers, cladding our dormers in red land tiles with a colour of your choice or high quality imitation slate. Poor quality, cheaper 'slate' bleaches after only a few years and your existing slates or tiles may well be unsuitable for the job or be near the end of their service life.
Roof Light Windows
Only genuine 'Velux' windows are contemplated - no cheap substitutes. All Attic conversions most have an escape window fitted to meet fire regulations.
UPVC Windows
20mm air-gap, standard self-locking handles with security night latch for ventilation. Any size or configuration of window may be chosen within your fixed price contract.
Electrics
Although (now) illegal, many companies still use non-qualified personnel to install loft electrics, with the attended risk of fire and lethal shocks to you or your family. Regulations are very tough for all our safety. Loftstyle only
Plumbing
High quality pipes and fitting are standard. Pumps (except in the few cases where they are inappropriate) are by 'Stuart' - a byword in quality world wide. Result - lots of power for any new hot water services and a long life; particularly important as electrical guarantees do not go beyond manufacturers warranties. Our fully qualified, helpful plumbing team will install the best for the job rather than the cheapest available selected by others.
Certificate Of Lawful Compliance
All attic conversions are required by law to meet Current Building Regulations - but how can you be sure your builder works to them? Is the builder who assures you that the Regulations are met going to refund your money and take down your conversion if he is wrong? LOFTSTYLE clients undertaking a conversion receive a "Certificate of Lawful Compliance" on completion of works in order to prove, in years to come, that Building & Fire Regulations were met throughout your conversion. It costs us time and money but it is for your protection.
Full Plans Approval (Local Planning Department)
Many companies, damaged by reputation and cash flow, will press customers towards "Submit and Build" quickie starts which are fraught with risk; the customer is likely to be the one who pays for the on-site alterations demanded by the Planning officer on unchecked preliminary plans. LOFTSTYLE always advises clients to wait for "Full Plans Approval" prior to commencement of works. Result – 12 weeks negative cash flow for us, but safety for our clients and no problems when you come to sell your home.
Professionally Qualified In –House Staff
At the design Stage our Chartered Architectural Technologist, Designs your new addition to its maximum potential. During the construction at every stage our Chartered Building Surveyor/Engineer inspects the works to ensure they meet our quality control standards. Then on completion we carry out a final inspection.
Our Office
No 9 to 5 here! Our office generally opens at 8:30 am and rarely closes before 8:00 pm. Result - we are here to discuss your conversion when you come home from your days work. Senior staffs have mobile phones for ease of access. We operate six days a week to maintain the best standards of communication and supervision.
Dream or Disaster?
Having a loft conversion added to your home is a decision of great importance. With the immense pride and satisfaction this can bring to you it is vitally important you undertake the project with the right company, thus avoiding the many pitfalls that exist in this complex area of construction. Remember, you cannot try out an attic conversion or study the standard of work undertaken in your home until it is built and your money spent.
Q. So, are all Loft Companies the same?
A. No, not all loft conversion companies are the same. Not one can match all the commitments above, which is why LOFT-STYLE remains the leading and most popular attic conversion company in the Ireland. An attic conversion is a major alteration to your home - the percentage cost difference between the very best and the mediocre to poor, being small. Choose wisely and only accept the best in building. The wrong choice can be a nightmare and the value of your property undermined. The right choice will truly transform your home with beautiful new rooms.
FREE QUOTATIONS
If you would like to arrange a free quotation for your attic conversion, please contact our Chartered Building Surveyor/Engineer to arrange a visit on 087 2224046 or 01 4586992.
Conversion Guidelines
Do I need planning advice?- Past attic conversions
- Add value to your property
- Dont move out, move up in style
- Questions & answers
- Building & fire regulations
- Protect your family
All Loftstyle conversions are completed to meet all current building regulations under the supervision of a quailified chartered building surveyor.
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