Loft conversions

Unlock Your Home's Hidden Potential with Loft Conversion

Is your family growing, or do you simply need more living space? A loft conversion is one of the most effective ways to expand your home, transforming dusty, unused attic space into a beautiful and functional room.

From a luxurious master bedroom with an en-suite to a bright home office or a fun playroom for the children, a loft conversion adds significant space and value to your property without the cost and hassle of moving.

At 1st Builders, we are Cambridge’s trusted loft conversion specialists. We manage the entire process from the initial design and structural calculations to the final coat of paint.

Our experienced team handles everything, ensuring your new space is built to the highest standards, fully compliant with building regulations, and seamlessly integrated into your home.

We pride ourselves on meticulous craftsmanship, clear communication, and minimal disruption, turning your vision into a stunning reality.

Our Loft Conversion Services Include:

Free Survey & Quote: A no-obligation assessment of your loft’s potential.
Design & Planning: Expert guidance on layout, design, and navigating planning permission.
All Conversion Types: Including Dormer, Velux (Rooflight), Hip-to-Gable, and Mansard conversions.
Full Project Management: We coordinate all trades, from structural work to plumbing and electrics.
Guaranteed Quality: A high-quality finish, fully insured and guaranteed for your peace of mind.

A Seamless Process We make the construction process as smooth and stress-free as possible. With a dedicated project manager, a clear schedule of works, and a team that respects your home, we ensure your project is delivered on time and on budget with minimal disruption.

Maximise Space & Value A loft conversion is a smart investment, often adding more to your property’s value than its cost. We design intelligent layouts that make the most of every square metre, creating spacious, light-filled rooms that enhance your home.

Uncompromising Quality Our reputation is built on quality. We use only the best materials and employ highly skilled, certified tradespeople. From the structural integrity of the build to the flawless plastering and joinery, we never compromise on the details.

FAQ

Will a loft conversion make my house colder?

On the contrary, a professionally insulated loft conversion can make your home more energy-efficient. We install high-performance insulation that meets or exceeds current building regulations, which helps to reduce heat loss through your roof and can lower your energy bills.

Where will the new staircase for the loft go?

The placement of the staircase is crucial. We aim to position it so that it feels like a natural part of your home, often placing it above your existing staircase to minimise the loss of space on the floor below. We will design the most efficient and compliant layout during the survey.

Do I need to inform my neighbours about my loft conversion?

If your property is semi-detached or terraced, you will need to notify your neighbours under the Party Wall Act 1996. This is a formal process to ensure their property is protected during the works. We can provide guidance on this process.

Can you install an en-suite bathroom in the loft?

Yes, adding an en-suite is a very popular and practical feature for a new loft bedroom. We can handle all the necessary plumbing and electrical work to create a stylish and functional bathroom in your new space.

Is my existing boiler suitable for a new loft bathroom?

This depends on your current heating system. A combi boiler may be sufficient, but older gravity-fed systems might need upgrading to a pressurised system to provide adequate water pressure to the new top-floor bathroom. We will assess this as part of our initial survey.

Will I need to have my water tank moved?

If you have an older, gravity-fed system with a large water tank in the loft, then yes, it will need to be moved or, more commonly, replaced. This is a perfect opportunity to upgrade to a modern, unvented cylinder or a combi boiler, which frees up space and improves your home’s hot water performance.

Is a loft conversion a noisy and disruptive process?

There will be some noise, particularly during the initial structural stages. However, we carry out most of the early work from scaffolding on the outside of your house. We only break through to install the staircase towards the end of the project, which significantly minimises disruption to your daily life.

What is the difference between a Dormer and a Velux conversion?

A Velux (or rooflight) conversion is the simplest type, where windows are fitted into the existing roof slope. A Dormer conversion involves building a structural extension that projects vertically from the roof, creating more headroom and usable floor space. We can advise on the best option for your home and budget.

How long does a typical loft conversion take?

A straightforward Velux conversion might take 4-6 weeks, while a more complex Dormer conversion could take 8-12 weeks. We will provide a detailed project timeline before any work begins.