Attic Conversion with no windows

8 years ago

Hi, we are converting the attic space in our apartment. we recently were blocked in our attempts to install velux windows - so have decided on an open plan room. we plan on opening up the ceiling in the kitchen and sitting room to allow light enter the attic space. has anyone converted the atic space and not done the windows bit? would love some feedback

Featured Answer

Trisha Goodwin

8 years ago

I too, am wondering why you were refused velux windows? Here in Scotland you are not allowed to convert an attic room to "livable space" - that is any room, other than a store room, without an escape window of a certain size, velux or other, due to fire regulations. Not sure where you live - in the UK? and what your regs would be? Again, I don't think you are allowed to open up a kitchen ceiling due to fire regs, this would obviously be a real danger in case of fire, when it would sweep upwards very quickly if a section was open. You obviously need to consult a surveyor or building engineer as a first step. If not done the right way, it can cause havoc when you come to sell, or even worse, if there ever were a fire.

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Comments (8)

PRO
OnePlan
8 years ago
What do you intend to use the room for ? As, if it's to be a bedroom, you will need a form of egress, in case of fire .
PRO
STUDIO PARKOAR
8 years ago
It would be useful to understand why you were unable to install velum Windows.....there are alternative ways of allowing lightl in depending upon the nature of the property you are converting.
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gussy81
Original Author
8 years ago
i am in ireland. the property management companu own the roof - therefore i cannot install the velux windows. thats an interesting point about the kitchen and fire.
PRO
STUDIO PARKOAR
8 years ago
The kitchen opening up is possible but it does depend upon how you do it....depending upon your budget and complexity of the scheme there are suppression systems that can be used in such circumstances.

So I am guessing that the management company are fairly conservative in their views ..... Or is it about insurance etc......? If so then they should accept proposals as long as a competent professional is involved.... It's normally all about insurance and who is potentially liable in case of a leak.

If you can flesh the problem out a bit more we can offer more tailored advice.
gussy81
Original Author
8 years ago
yeah they have a zero tolerance approach on any work being done as they are liable for any problems down the line so they don't let anyone do any type of work to alter the roof. the room itself was originally going to be a bedroom but may be a bit to hot without windows. so maybe turn it into a study or quiet room.
PRO
STUDIO PARKOAR
8 years ago
You could provide passive ventilation by other means and then use lighting to simulate natural daylight. How are you insulating the roof ? presumably below the rafters?
PRO
Solatube UK
8 years ago
Have you considered looking in tubular daylighting devices?
Far less hassle than installing a traditional rooflight of some sort, takes up less space on the roof and can spread an impressive amount of daylight.

Solatube Daylighting Systems are the originators of the product concept known as "light pipes", "sun tubes" etc. I'd suggest taking a look at our profile or even our website www.solatube.co.uk and seeing you feel we'd be a solution to enquiry.

We'd be happy to discuss this further with you and I hope we can be of some assistance

Daniel at Solatube UK

Attic Conversion with no windows

Trisha Goodwin

Comments (8)

OnePlan

STUDIO PARKOAR

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Attic Conversion with no windows

Trisha Goodwin

Comments (8)

OnePlan

STUDIO PARKOAR

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gussy81
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