New-Build and Trussed Roof Loft Conversions

Why new-build lofts are different

Most houses built since the 1960s have a trussed roof. Instead of a few big rafters, the roof is held up by lots of timber frames in a W shape, spaced every 60cm or so. Those diagonal timbers fill the loft, so it looks impossible to use, and many loft companies won't take these jobs on.

The trusses can be replaced. A structural engineer designs a new structure, usually with steel beams and new floor joists, that carries the roof without the diagonals. We put it in step by step, so the roof is always supported, and you end up with a clear, open loft.

Recent project: Shoreham

Front and rear dormers on a new-build with a trussed roof, giving full head height across the new floor. We built a bedroom, a home office and an en-suite shower room in 12 to 14 weeks. See our Shoreham lofts →

"What we agreed at the start is exactly what we paid." – Quoc, Shoreham (Google review)

What's possible

• Rear dormer: the most common choice on estate houses, giving full head height.
• Front and rear dormers: where the roof is shallow, as at Shoreham. The front dormer needs planning permission.
• Rooflight conversion: only where the roof is steep enough.

Things to check on a newer house

• Permitted development rights: on some estates, the developer or council removed them. We'll check your deeds and planning history before you commit.
• Covenants: some new-build deeds need the developer's consent for alterations.
• Warranty: if your house is still under a new-build warranty, tell the warranty provider before work starts.

Cost and build time

New-build dormers start from £65,000 including VAT, and a standard build takes around 12 weeks. The steelwork for a trussed roof is included in your fixed price, so there are no surprises. Cost guide →