Loft Conversion Structural Design in London

• Design of the new loft floor — beams and joists
• Roof alteration design, including dormer structures
• Ridge and purlin support where the roof is altered
• Checks on the walls and foundations carrying the new loads
• Staircase opening trimming and support

• Dormer loft conversions
• Velux (rooflight) conversions
• Hip-to-gable conversions
• Mansard roof alterations

1. 1

   Initial enquiry

   Tell us about your project through the contact form, including any drawings or photographs you already have.

2. 2

   Review of information

   We review the available information — existing drawings, architectural proposals, site measurements and photographs — and confirm what is needed.

3. 3

   Quotation

   We agree the scope and fee with you before any design work begins, so you know exactly what will be provided.

4. 4

   Design and checking

   We carry out the agreed calculations, drawings or specifications, checked against the relevant standards.

5. 5

   Issue of deliverables

   The agreed drawings, calculations or design notes are issued to you electronically, ready for your builder or building control.

• Architectural drawings or sketches of the proposed conversion
• Photographs of the existing loft structure
• The property type and approximate age
• Party wall situation — terraced and semi-detached lofts usually involve neighbours

• Structural general arrangement drawings
• Beam, joist and connection specifications
• Calculation package for building control

Most loft conversions in terraced and semi-detached houses involve party wall procedures with neighbours — handled by party wall surveyors, not by the structural design. Planning permission may be needed depending on the design and your property's permitted development rights. The design does not include the construction work itself.

Will the new loft floor make my ceilings below crack?

The design separates the new floor from the existing ceiling where possible, so the extra load does not bear on the old ceiling joists.

Do I need steel beams in the loft?

Almost always — steel beams at floor level carry the new floor and often support the altered roof. They are usually hidden within the floor depth.

How disruptive is the structural work?

Most of the structural work happens within the loft itself. Your builder will advise on the programme; the design sets out what gets built.

• Timber Beam Connection Design
• Beam Design
• Extension Structural Design