StudioKAZAAD Ltd

Walls - check the existing walls for stability and make sure there aren't any defects. If it's single skin with piers and the piers are being removed, the wall will be weakened and should be tied to a new inner leaf using remedial wall ties.

Weather - make sure the wall of single leaf construction is weatherproof. Treatment options include tanking the wall using a vapour permeable membrane linked to a damp proof course or membrane at floor level, or providing a lightweight blockwork inner leaf with insulation in the new cavity. In all wall types, care must be taken to ensure the floor membrane laps with the DPC in the existing walls.

Insulation - This must insulate walls, roof and floor to habitable standards by choosing the right insulation that complies with U-value heat circulation. Where lining the garage with an independent stud partition, the insulation should be fitted tightly between the studs - using insulated plasterboard is best to avoid cold bridging.

Ventilation - Windows must have openable vents of an area equal to 1/20th of the floor area of the room. You also need 5,000mm2 of trickle vents to provide background ventilation. And if the new room can only be accessed via another room, a window with a clear opening of 450 x 733mm is a must for means of escape.

Sound - any party wall between the garage and an adjoining property will need to be insulated to stop sound transmission. Check the existing wall construction - anything less than 200mm of dense blockwork will usually need further work, which may include additional masonry or specialist independent acoustic partitions.

Electricity - the requirements of Part P - Electrical safety in dwellings will apply to the new conversion, so ensure any installations are compliant and certified to BS 7671.

Making sure the height is comfortable with a threshold is at least 2.2-2.4m and analyse exsiting thick rafters, joists and purlins – with minimal battening to get in the way of the main void with a decent pitch, as traditional cut roofs are often relatively easy to convert.

1. Check if the existing structure support a loft conversion that is capable of supporting the added weight a conversion will bring.

2. Check if there is enough headspace with landing area must be set at 1.9m and ensures to adhere with all Building Regulations

3. Check if this includes the Party Wall Act 1996.

4. Check if there is a change in the existing roof as fitting new ceiling and floor joists would require a compliment design context.

5. Check if the existing staircase works well with the new staircase to ensure an adequate escape route in the event of a fire.

6. Check how much natural light is required for velux windows as most lofts won’t have windows previously installed, so a light source is integral to architectural plans. Skylights are often the preferred option for loft conversions as they can be seamlessly integrated into the existing roofline.

7. Check if the designs factor in fire safety precautions as the loft conversion will need 30 minutes of fire protection and fit a fire door as well as a means of escape, such as through escaping windows.

8. Check if the designs include insulation in the loft because heat naturally rises and as such, can easily escape from the house.

9. Check if the loft is protected against sound pollution as floor spaces are sound insulated as the heavier and denser the material the better the sound is insulated.

10. Check if the loft can provide storage opportunities built-in wardrobes are incredibly popular and fit where stand-alone units wouldn’t.

Creating new architectural spaces for the future, in which families need to expand new areas for the new generation to develop and grow moments in life.

Representing diversity and creativity in the business.

Willing to get the job completed and keen to learn new experiences from clients.