tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-58237307818969489212024-03-08T02:33:47.470-08:00EconoloftEconoloft Ltdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18143138278124513891noreply@blogger.comBlogger36125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5823730781896948921.post-87474953933524950312013-01-28T02:36:00.000-08:002013-01-28T02:36:50.928-08:00Staircase is the link between old and new<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The location of your </span></span><a href="http://www.econoloft.co.uk/"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">loft conversion</span></span></a><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> stairs is a vital part of your overall loft conversion design.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It forms the ‘bridge’ between the old and new
and it is usually the first piece of work to be completed.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">However, the staircase is not just a design feature.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s also an important </span></span><a href="http://www.econoloft.co.uk/building_regulation_approval.php"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">safety aspect</span></span></a><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> of the conversion and it must conform to strict building regulations
which will need to be signed off by an independent inspector.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The stairs to your loft conversion must
provide an adequate escape route in case of fire and so working with an </span></span><a href="http://www.econoloft.co.uk/"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">experienced
loft conversion company like Econoloft</span></span></a><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> will ensure the plans are drawn up correctly.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Once we have designed your loft and decided where the staircase will go,
we will work with you to develop the finer details of the staircase so they
meet your individual needs.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">For example, if the loft conversion is being used as a </span></span><a href="http://www.econoloft.co.uk/loft_conversion_for_bedrooms.php"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">child’s bedroom or playroom</span></span></a><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">, would you want child friendly hand rails?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If the room will be used by a more mature
person should we consider stairs that are not particularly steep and have
banisters on both sides?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">What about lighting?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do you need
a switch at the top and bottom of the stairs?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Maybe you would like in-stair lighting for a modern and contemporary
feel?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">If the room is being used by a teenager that enjoys loud music and sleep-overs,
do you want to install an additional door at the bottom of the stairs to
sound-proof the loft conversion from the rest of the house?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Many of our customers have traditional homes with period features and
naturally want a new staircase to blend in with the rest of the house. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Geoffrey and Christine Morris raised two children in their Edwardian
terraced house in Surrey. <span style="color: black;">The property has many
original features including a beautiful staircase with rounded mouldings to the
sides, pierced spindles and fluted newel posts. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Geoffrey said: “Thanks to the Econoloft team and their
recommended contractors the loft conversion blends in seamlessly with the rest
of the house. The staircase in particular is magnificent. It was so
reassuring to know we were dealing with professionals”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Whatever your property type or size, the stairs to your loft conversion
is the first part of your new space – it will set the tone for the new room and
will create the first impression.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Like
all first impressions – it needs to be a good one! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">For more examples of our staircases visit Econoloft at Pinterest or see the photo album on our </span></span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Econoloft/186769904694171"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">Facebook page</span></span></a> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwk3oAuqJVrLX0R9z-QdIIfmcwzoSl4kkeolhXGv-j2xcGRIX5iNhmG4NKGUatT0XyvD1hJpb2f92T0JnKGhv-73Fgs3fIS6rFq91YkSy7ndJyprQPLyG5Dsvy-Jq151NCbXtMu1hGESrG/s1600/morris+staircase.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwk3oAuqJVrLX0R9z-QdIIfmcwzoSl4kkeolhXGv-j2xcGRIX5iNhmG4NKGUatT0XyvD1hJpb2f92T0JnKGhv-73Fgs3fIS6rFq91YkSy7ndJyprQPLyG5Dsvy-Jq151NCbXtMu1hGESrG/s320/morris+staircase.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Econoloft Ltdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18143138278124513891noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5823730781896948921.post-90174944249509429932012-12-04T07:01:00.000-08:002012-12-04T07:01:46.934-08:00Homeowners still confused about planning permission<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="color: #333333; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">According to national loft conversion
experts </span></span><a href="http://www.econoloft.co.uk/"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">Econoloft</span></span></a><span style="color: #333333; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">, many people are still confused
about the issue of planning permission when it comes to extending their home. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you are considering a loft conversion in
2013 their advice is to get the right information before you start.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Becke Livesey from Econoloft
said:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“In October 2008 </span></span><a href="http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/permission/responsibilities/planningpermission/permitted"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">planning laws</span></span></a><span style="color: #333333; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> were
relaxed which means the majority of loft conversion can be built without
planning permission – these properties fall under something called ‘permitted
development rights’.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even so, building
regulations still apply but the process is usually more straight forward.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“However, the confusion lies around
the fact that permitted development rights are not universal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For some properties, permitted development
rights are more restricted or do not apply.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: #333333; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">As a general rule, if you live in a
flat, a maisonette, a conservation area, national park or an area of
outstanding natural beauty you will still need planning permission </span><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">to construct a
dormer as part of<span style="color: #333333;"> your loft conversion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Homeowners should check with their local
authority on whether or not planning permission is required before employing a
loft conversion company.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: #333333; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Becke adds:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Homeowners should clarify their position
prior to asking for quotes as the design of the </span><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">loft will be considerably affected by
whether or not planning is required.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
will have to meet strict criteria - though is you use an experienced </span></span><a href="http://www.econoloft.co.uk/"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">loft conversion company</span></span></a><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> this
should not pose any real problem.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Econoloft carry out hundreds of loft conversions
every year, mainly in London and the Home Counties where space is at a premium,
and only around 10% of these need planning permission.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #333333; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“Each local authority has a different
approach to this,” adds Becke. “Have a quick chat with them before employing a
builder as this will save you time, money and stress!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">More information is available at </span></span><a href="http://www.econoloft.co.uk/planning_permission.php"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">http://www.econoloft.co.uk/planning_permission.php</span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">
or call Econoloft on 0800 269 765.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVwMgR0KvkNVo4d2jduPvC_qYfdU_378p9TKCS5oMiCuBqXnr4bUdLK6IVevlP-z0W0Wtn9RU_iHO5Ju9D6u5tn-Pp8dL3KZGKLKSib4J6PX-o9UY-WijM5GZPDFFCUKDScfpKKII1u6XB/s1600/A+loft+conversion+can+add+value+to+your+property+but+check+if+you+need+planning+permission+before+starting+work..JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVwMgR0KvkNVo4d2jduPvC_qYfdU_378p9TKCS5oMiCuBqXnr4bUdLK6IVevlP-z0W0Wtn9RU_iHO5Ju9D6u5tn-Pp8dL3KZGKLKSib4J6PX-o9UY-WijM5GZPDFFCUKDScfpKKII1u6XB/s320/A+loft+conversion+can+add+value+to+your+property+but+check+if+you+need+planning+permission+before+starting+work..JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Econoloft Ltdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18143138278124513891noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5823730781896948921.post-35676089486565883552012-11-06T04:07:00.000-08:002012-11-06T04:07:12.277-08:00Upsurge in enquiries as a result of 'The Beeny Bounce'<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5uekmVq5OHZ1rxqBSsT837eR_AwafV_PmbTKaXj-RvmFI5ElrusU8bhAMrtYJWcQ2lnFHep_Mc3wQif4A9QDd5t8A_1RE-2kUE5FBTDVNzypzZtUG4Ew_3clOcoUVu_6jjzxcAttdc-Vc/s1600/Sarah-Beeny%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5uekmVq5OHZ1rxqBSsT837eR_AwafV_PmbTKaXj-RvmFI5ElrusU8bhAMrtYJWcQ2lnFHep_Mc3wQif4A9QDd5t8A_1RE-2kUE5FBTDVNzypzZtUG4Ew_3clOcoUVu_6jjzxcAttdc-Vc/s1600/Sarah-Beeny%5B1%5D.jpg" /></a><span style="background: white; color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Property commentators always cite loft
conversions as the home improvement that will add most value to your house. However,
Sarah Beeny's recent Channel 4 TV series </span></span><a href="http://www.channel4.com/programmes/double-your-house-for-half-the-money"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="background: white; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">Double Your House for Half
the Money</span></span></i></a><span style="background: white; color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> has shown not just how a loft
conversion can add money to your home, but just as importantly, the practical
benefits to having extra living space.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: #464646; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Studies have found that
houses </span><span style="background: white; color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">in the </span></span><a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-14910645"><span style="background: white; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">UK are among the
smallest in Europe</span></span></a><span style="background: white; color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> and with more
grown up children than ever before either remaining in the parental home or
coming back because they can’t afford a house of their own – it’s no wonder Britain
is feeling a bit over crowded.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">A well
designed and well-built loft conversion can add considerable living space to
any home, even flats and maisonettes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> We have</span> been established for forty years and every year over the last decade we have seen our business grow as more people than ever realise that extending into the
loft is better value than moving home, particularly where property prices are
at a premium such as Greater London and the Home Counties.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Sarah Beeny has now further enhanced business for
Econoloft which we have dubbed the ‘Beeny Bounce’ to reflect the
increase in enquires over the last two months.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">People are now quoting Sarah Beeny or the TV
programme when they ring us. It has provided the catalyst for people who may have been thinking
about a loft conversion to actually pick up the phone or send an email and take
that extra step to find out more.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">However, a word of warning - a loft conversion is a
major financial decision and you need to do your homework before handing over
any money.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Research the companies you
ask to quote and don’t be afraid to ask to talk to other satisfied customers or
even see completed lofts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ensure the
builder you choose has the necessary professional affiliations such as </span></span><a href="http://www.trustmark.org.uk/"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">Trustmark</span></span></a><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> or the </span></span><a href="http://www.fmb.org.uk/"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">Federation of
Master Builders</span></span></a><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> and most importantly confirm all your work is
insured and guaranteed.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">For information about loft conversions visit </span></span><a href="http://www.econoloft.co.uk/"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">www.econoloft.co.uk</span></span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">, Freephone 0800 269 765 or tweet @econoloft.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
</div>
Econoloft Ltdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18143138278124513891noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5823730781896948921.post-5128595230512542372012-08-23T09:56:00.000-07:002012-08-23T09:56:05.395-07:00Consider a wet room for the ultimate in luxury bathing<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<b>Once the decision has been made to have a loft conversion, many of our customers also want to include an ensuite. The idea of an additional family bathroom is a luxury many people want and the experts at Econoloft will guide you all the way.</b><br /><br />
There are a few considerations to take into account such as where your existing plumbing is, as it makes practical and financial sense to place your new facilities in line with the existing ones. <br /><br />
However, if there is space available in your loft conversion we do recommend it. It’s not just a luxury for you now but will be a great selling point in the future. This year we have noticed a growing trend for wet rooms.<br />
<br /> “I think travel to hotels where wet rooms are becoming the norm has opened our eyes to their benefits, “said Becke Livesey from Econoloft.<br />
<br />“Add to that the fact that British bathrooms tend to be quite small and it’s not difficult to see why the minimalism of a wet room appeals.”<br />
<br />Becke says wet rooms are particularly useful in a loft conversion where sometimes the loft may have height restrictions that prevent a standard shower unit being fitted.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmTJ9plf4mimpyRLJIyScDwTOUs6k3-ZSpMlqXhR0L2U1MX_Jz5UPcfagnthTSn979FASV0SxhiF6miQM7w3OaHPuyOhH4CGitCi5DYPk6ac2nsmfKFyWZWxXEGOiVFTRByULzbA87LapS/s1600/0FEK0024+%283%29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmTJ9plf4mimpyRLJIyScDwTOUs6k3-ZSpMlqXhR0L2U1MX_Jz5UPcfagnthTSn979FASV0SxhiF6miQM7w3OaHPuyOhH4CGitCi5DYPk6ac2nsmfKFyWZWxXEGOiVFTRByULzbA87LapS/s320/0FEK0024+%283%29.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />A wet room is a fully water tight bathroom with no separate shower tray. The “walk-in” shower area is usually level with the surrounding floor but with a slight slope to the drain which is fitted directly into the floor. The shower unit and controls are fitted to one of the walls. <br />
<br />It is perfectly safe and obviously water tight thanks to our fibreglass system which is used to “tank” the room, and fully seal the wet room against water leaks. <br />
<br />“There is something aspirational about a wet room that appeals to customers,” said Becke. “Thanks to their sleek lines and minimal furniture they are much easier to keep clean and hygiene levels are excellent.” <br />
<br />Even if you don’t want to opt for the total wet room experience, many manufacturers have developed enclosures which are effectively just glass and this can also provide a modern open feel in the bathroom.<br /><br />
“Bathroom design has really moved on over the last decade,” said Becke. “We work with a numerous companies who can provide the ultimate in luxury even if they are working in a really tight space.<br />
<br />“A wet room can become your spa at home and is the perfect complement to your new bedroom in the loft!”<br /></div>
Econoloft Ltdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18143138278124513891noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5823730781896948921.post-67753505870709807412012-07-09T07:06:00.007-07:002012-07-09T07:06:49.328-07:00Has your home shrunk?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<b>Are you feeling a bit cramped in your house? It’s no wonder. Did you know that homes in Britain have the smallest rooms and that London in particular has the smallest houses in Europe? </b><br />
<br />One of the reasons for this is that we are the only place in Europe where house building does not have legally binding minimum space standards which private developers have to adhere to.<br />
<br />Of course we are a tiny island but Denmark is also a small country and it boasts Europe’s most spacious living accommodation. <br />
<br />And living in a property where you feel overcrowded is bad for your health and can cause anxiety and stress. Extending your living space can really make you feel good!<br /><br />Chris Charles and his wife Pippa had a loft conversion on their semi detached home in Orpington, Kent <br /><br />Chris said: “It’s incredible how a loft conversion can have such a positive impact on all our lives. The space has given the children a nice play area and also means Pippa and I get some child-free quality time.<br /><br />“The whole of our upstairs space now feels light and spacious. It feels very grand and almost like we’re in a holiday home somewhere!<br /><br />Of course, even if we wanted to most of us don’t’ have the option to up sticks and move to a bigger house. Often the addition of another bedroom will simply push budgets into an unaffordable range. <br /><br />The price difference between a 3-bedroom house and a 4-bedroom house, particularly if you live in areas where property prices are high, such as London and Home Counties, can be over £100K.<br /><br />Mark Thomson from Surrey said: “Much to our surprise, in order to get that all important fourth bedroom we would have had to buy a house between £400 and £450k. Add to that, the cost and stress of moving and we decided that a fourth bedroom was not worth £100,000.”<br /><br />Like hundreds of other people the Thomsons opted for a loft conversion instead and they love it.<br /><br />So if you feel that your home is too small for your family – call the loft conversion experts and see how we can help.<br /></div>Econoloft Ltdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18143138278124513891noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5823730781896948921.post-43322871710153529082012-05-22T03:12:00.000-07:002012-05-22T03:12:32.403-07:00We needed more space for our children<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFEKjCXu5hBDn9XOLt3IbH5z6Sm4r9vQYzHgIoAKTzHYs0_lpWhiwSunLEWSsW92no4-EHi1d-zNYwHdM0XVUD9pfatYngMxE0OxuFlaSrFX1gEojoo7NzAXYMo1E07TfI9r8YB0WicdGJ/s1600/_FEK0023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFEKjCXu5hBDn9XOLt3IbH5z6Sm4r9vQYzHgIoAKTzHYs0_lpWhiwSunLEWSsW92no4-EHi1d-zNYwHdM0XVUD9pfatYngMxE0OxuFlaSrFX1gEojoo7NzAXYMo1E07TfI9r8YB0WicdGJ/s400/_FEK0023.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<b>Heather and Nick Sheldon and their two children aged five and nine years old have lived in their semi-detached family home for eight years. </b><br /><br />Their house had three bedrooms, but one was a small box room, which as their children started to grow up, was just not big enough.<br /><br />Heather said: “We wanted more space for our children more than anything, although a new bedroom for ourselves would obviously be a bonus!<br /><br />“We thought about moving but we love our home and the area we live in, so a loft conversion looked like the best option.”<br /><br />After consulting a number of companies, the family decided to use Econoloft who advised how a new double bedroom in the loft space would provide the solution they wanted.<br /><br />“When it came to deciding what to do with the space, Econoloft was very helpful and gave us two options with two separate quotes-something we hadn’t considered in the past ,” added Heather.<br /><br />“It’s made a huge difference to our family. Nick and I have a lovely space in the loft and the children now have a reasonable sized room each.<br /><br />“The cost was also very reasonable and we are overall very impressed with Econoloft.”<br /></div>Econoloft Ltdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18143138278124513891noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5823730781896948921.post-62115317567205872642012-04-17T07:19:00.001-07:002012-04-17T07:20:56.603-07:00April is Home Improvement Month<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.homeimprovementmonth.co.uk/homeimprovementmonth.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.homeimprovementmonth.co.uk/homeimprovementmonth.png" /></a></div><br />
<a href="http://www.homeimprovementmonth.co.uk/" target="_blank">Home Improvement Month</a> is the perfect reason to have a massive clear out of your home, spring clean from top to bottom and make those long-awaited improvements. If you’re struggling for space in your home, why not enquire about a loft conversion? <br />
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Many people believe that moving to a larger home is the better option-after all, a loft conversion can sound like a massive upheaval to your family life. But when you add together the costs, the disruption and the fact that you could be leaving a home you really love, moving might not sound quite so appealing. <br />
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Taking 12 weeks and costing £20,000 on average, a loft conversion is a cost effective and the quickest way of getting the additional room(s) you need in your house as well as increasing its value in the long term.<br />
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And despite <a href="http://www.newsroom.hsbc.co.uk/press/release/diy_fanatics_warned_as_home_im" target="_blank">a recent survey from HSBC </a>claiming that a loft conversion doesn’t add as much value to a property as in previous years, we have proof from a satisfied customer that this is just not the case. <a href="http://econoloftltd.blogspot.co.uk/2012/03/annual-hsbc-home-improvement-survey.html" target="_blank">Mr Thomson</a> would have had to spend around £100,000 to move to a bigger property just for one more room. Instead, he reconsidered his options and looked to converting his loft-and he’s never looked back!<br />
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So why not use Home Improvement Month to take that leap and do something about the lack of space in your home? Give us a call on 0800 269 765 or visit our website to find out more about your options. </div>Econoloft Ltdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18143138278124513891noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5823730781896948921.post-9787768606990579742012-03-31T06:35:00.001-07:002012-03-31T06:39:05.893-07:00The annual HSBC Home Improvement Survey 2012<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br />
<div style="font: 12.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0COSSuv2E25xL6KScaWzwnXX7p-sGFFuJkdlr-CQuPlIBRlFjMdwyFYMI2bV-p-fQHr7KvzwsF9amgVojH0WFMSBuXYCA0ojvJTEn8fux5MAwdKSIwwJkRVv_LsGbw4DLIQHBjyERE7RC/s1600/2017+61,+East+Hundreds++fini+(9).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0COSSuv2E25xL6KScaWzwnXX7p-sGFFuJkdlr-CQuPlIBRlFjMdwyFYMI2bV-p-fQHr7KvzwsF9amgVojH0WFMSBuXYCA0ojvJTEn8fux5MAwdKSIwwJkRVv_LsGbw4DLIQHBjyERE7RC/s320/2017+61,+East+Hundreds++fini+(9).JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">The annual HSBC Home Improvement Survey 2012 says valuation experts continue to cite a loft conversion as the best way to improve a property’s value and that London and the South East remain the region where a loft conversion can add most value.</span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Recent headlines from the survey are slightly misleading as they don’t take into account overall property values or regional discrpencies. </span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Closer inspection of the survey shows that a loft conversion still remains value for money particulary in areas where space is at a premium. According to the rather conservative statistics in this survey, a loft conversion can sstill add over £40,000 to your property value in these areas making it still good value for money.</span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">However, for most of our customers in this area a loft conversion is not simply to add value to a home, it is required to provide much needed space for families who simply can’t afford to move to another house to get that all important extra bedroom.</span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkh0b3SVVm-POep7OD9dVsGNebKGgXmbeUBsUdlk_027CtI7dJw2h433XX6f0dqBb0VjuMjw8VKIcxOcsDu9L2EIhwswy1og5DjjSTyobn4fKxmiGuTaY2VFRFZygRAoCLaokmBLi7-Kbw/s1600/Montage+Shots+(3).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkh0b3SVVm-POep7OD9dVsGNebKGgXmbeUBsUdlk_027CtI7dJw2h433XX6f0dqBb0VjuMjw8VKIcxOcsDu9L2EIhwswy1og5DjjSTyobn4fKxmiGuTaY2VFRFZygRAoCLaokmBLi7-Kbw/s320/Montage+Shots+(3).jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="font: 12.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">One of our customers tells it like it is. “We put the house on the market for £290,000 and set about looking at bigger homes in a similar area,” said Mark Thomson from Surrey. “Much to our surprise, in order to get that all important fourth bedroom we would have had to buy a house between £400 and £450k. Add to that, the cost and stress of moving and we decided that a fourth bedroom was not worth £100,000.”</span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">“We couldn’t have put it better ourselves Mark!</span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">By Becke Livesey </span></div></div>Econoloft Ltdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18143138278124513891noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5823730781896948921.post-77513358685663189252012-03-03T04:39:00.000-08:002012-03-03T04:39:59.865-08:00Dormer Conversion Being Built From Start to Finish<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyjej6iHoVvHuxUdPKgmnJ_JJ39wZ-UvYkv5N_MyABITIQ1nbBrlgSM-lAL6dUCgyzSXTRdzEyh1C0GFFuPQg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #999999; font-family: arial, sans-serif; line-height: 14px;">Here are all the stages we go through in adding a dormer conversion to an existing property</span></div></div>Econoloft Ltdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18143138278124513891noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5823730781896948921.post-52570514955055191102012-03-03T04:05:00.000-08:002012-03-03T04:05:34.387-08:00A LOFT CONVERSIONS STILL TOPS THE LIST WHEN ADDING VALUE TO A PROPERTY<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjScv_40kBtOp4ER0HmOR7mqJ5lEcpBWgG_ULQS_4klst-zq1fJKvLrJ5arP3JU5nn-UQkENkxS37lLZoCgWj_Z8Jmu6sVJR9AYaHYkJhnwzwSsMee5LilcWV73Iaqx_epSUY8xJHzp5kIv/s1600/_FEK0008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjScv_40kBtOp4ER0HmOR7mqJ5lEcpBWgG_ULQS_4klst-zq1fJKvLrJ5arP3JU5nn-UQkENkxS37lLZoCgWj_Z8Jmu6sVJR9AYaHYkJhnwzwSsMee5LilcWV73Iaqx_epSUY8xJHzp5kIv/s320/_FEK0008.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihJAnPb1EvfeRBzwi_mOWm4glksKybCHJLEh3X0F3YK3nDlS5JQdv2cQe8slXVF-yScIjpC6QPXoNPqXawpZzogCRhhXxldidk7rrAT0bYa5evGvXeCMF9oNGZDI3U6GJUsgBLoWaVb79f/s1600/_FEK0012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihJAnPb1EvfeRBzwi_mOWm4glksKybCHJLEh3X0F3YK3nDlS5JQdv2cQe8slXVF-yScIjpC6QPXoNPqXawpZzogCRhhXxldidk7rrAT0bYa5evGvXeCMF9oNGZDI3U6GJUsgBLoWaVb79f/s320/_FEK0012.jpg" width="320" /></a><span lang="EN-US">With spring and Bank Holidays just around the corner thousands of homeowners will start to think <a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-create.do" name="_GoBack"></a>about DIY projects but homeowners need to turn their thoughts to bigger projects if they want to add significant value to their homes.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US">More than a third of estate agents and valuers say that whilst painting and decorating makes a home more appealing it actually adds no value. Still topping the list of value-adding projects are loft conversions followed by room extensions, then things such as new kitchens, bathrooms, windows etc. So why do loft conversions make such a big impact on a property’s value? <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><br />
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</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu6fd9fCtscIuD5IxQ3FS8Gti-i-VLjRgyHPfX-Pv_igDbG8S0SnVeZUJ7fc3PsSZIzWWagRGj1dHN6lCZPd0LUfzLSe-uuiL0g4cxSF1vx-dX3Qam8Jm9dBqZ_1AdLUN7E711xFg0cIZe/s1600/_FEK0007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu6fd9fCtscIuD5IxQ3FS8Gti-i-VLjRgyHPfX-Pv_igDbG8S0SnVeZUJ7fc3PsSZIzWWagRGj1dHN6lCZPd0LUfzLSe-uuiL0g4cxSF1vx-dX3Qam8Jm9dBqZ_1AdLUN7E711xFg0cIZe/s320/_FEK0007.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US">A <a href="http://www.econoloft.co.uk/" target="_blank">loft conversion</a> adds a considerable living space to an average house and unlike an extension doesn’t eat into valuable garden space but utilizes what was a wasted area of the home. A loft conversion is a blank canvas and can be used for more or less whatever each individual family needs i.e. a new bedroom with en suite, an extra sitting room, a children’s playroom, a home cinema, an over the top wet room, a home office.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US">Adding an extra room to a house in an area of similar properties will certainly make it stand out and where competition is stiff give it the winning edge but experts agree that converting a <a href="http://www.econoloft.co.uk/" target="_blank">loft</a> can be more complex than it first appears and is best left to the experts. A badly executed loft conversion can actually have the opposite effect by decreasing the value of the property. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">A badly executed <a href="http://www.econoloft.co.uk/" target="_blank">loft conversion</a> can actually have the opposite effect by decreasing the value of the property.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US">So the best advice from estate agents is to always consult with an expert company before starting work on a <a href="http://www.econoloft.co.uk/" target="_blank">loft conversion</a>, get a free site survey and employ experts to avoid costly mistakes.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><br />
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</span></div></div>Econoloft Ltdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18143138278124513891noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5823730781896948921.post-49921149814209566302012-02-28T05:13:00.001-08:002012-10-02T07:47:22.217-07:00Planning and Measuring the Staircase to your Loft Conversion<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana;">It will be a combination of the space available and building regulations that determines the style and size of the new staircase to your loft conversion.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: Verdana;">The first thing to establish is the rise and number of risers and treads then the tread size which is known as the “going.” This is the measurement from the face of one riser to the face of the next. The minimum “going” needed for a domestic staircase to comply with current Building Regulations is 220mm with a staircase pitch not exceeding 42º. This would mean for example that if your riser height was 200mm then your “going” would be 230mm. Interestingly there is no restriction on how narrow your staircase can be but there are space limitations to really think about and the final "look" you are trying to achieve. (Obviously if you are having your conversion built by an expert company such as Econoloft advising on the staircase is all part of the service provided)<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: Verdana;">Once you have established the above you then need to look at the headroom – to comply with Building Regulations a domestic staircase must normally have a minimum of 2000mm clear headroom above the pitch line but there is some flexibility with loft conversions. This is when the services of a specialist loft converter such as Econoloft can save time and money on costly mistakes.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: Verdana;"><a href="http://www.econoloft.co.uk/building_regulation_approval.php" target="_blank">Building Regulation </a></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: Verdana;">Whatever size your staircase is there are many stylish choices nowadays, at reasonable budgets, which give the wow factor – with years of experience we can advise you on the best option for your <a href="http://www.econoloft.co.uk/" target="_blank">new loft</a>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Econoloft Ltdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18143138278124513891noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5823730781896948921.post-10951333983063105812012-02-28T04:30:00.001-08:002012-02-28T04:31:37.110-08:00The Party Wall Act and Loft Conversion<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br />
<div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US">If you live in a terraced or semi-detached house and are thinking of having your loft converted then the works will almost certainly fall under the provisions of the </span><span lang="EN-US"><span style="color: red;"><a href="http://www.econoloft.co.uk/other_legislation.php" target="_blank">Party Wall Act</a></span><span style="color: red;"> <o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0StakJbPMcIA73Vl3a64qscSPwTQjLCWNzbai1xAPNWNDOfhsfBWLdL-NLI4H7-QYAEbLaoUGRjj0aXjy5lxJUUV7QrE-XU39teOwd5WeDgO-PRbSmdU8Ar5AA8qCWTx6ajdNiZTq1ZsG/s1600/party_wall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0StakJbPMcIA73Vl3a64qscSPwTQjLCWNzbai1xAPNWNDOfhsfBWLdL-NLI4H7-QYAEbLaoUGRjj0aXjy5lxJUUV7QrE-XU39teOwd5WeDgO-PRbSmdU8Ar5AA8qCWTx6ajdNiZTq1ZsG/s1600/party_wall.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US">Typically a loft conversion incorporates a dormer window to the side or rear of the property and a steel joist will need to be inserted to support the new floor and dormer window. The steel joist will span from the flank wall to the party wall in a semi or from the party wall to party wall in a terraced house. In order to fix the steelwork you will have to cut into the party wall, which you are allowed to do under the Party Wall Act, but it essential that relevant paperwork is served on your neighbour. The paperwork is known as party wall notices and if served and your neighbour refuses permission then you are still allowed to do the work but an agreement has to be drawn up by a Surveyor. The procedure is clearly laid out in the <span style="color: red;"><a href="http://www.econoloft.co.uk/other_legislation.php" target="_blank">Party Wall Act</a></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US">If your neighbour has already raised the party wall for his own dormer you are allowed to build on it under the terms of the <span style="color: red;">Party Wall Act</span> but again you must serve a notice. Similarly you are allowed, under the terms of the Act, to increase the height of the party wall but a notice must be served. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS7opYJUXeLtnXkRWtLGg29AqpEWzulEtooWiKsQMTdHOButRcv3KK2hZEqlBirhCrDrTPsvmO5TJYGj9pMr_D-I8rWAeVskF9HgQa-K8EPUH6rotw_69tPshn3mi7k5RspaIW49up9-9Z/s1600/party+wall+talk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS7opYJUXeLtnXkRWtLGg29AqpEWzulEtooWiKsQMTdHOButRcv3KK2hZEqlBirhCrDrTPsvmO5TJYGj9pMr_D-I8rWAeVskF9HgQa-K8EPUH6rotw_69tPshn3mi7k5RspaIW49up9-9Z/s320/party+wall+talk.jpg" width="222" /></a><span lang="EN-US">Should your neighbours insist on compensation for using the party wall then they are entitled to one which will be based upon the costs you have saved by using it. In this case the surveyor acting for you and the surveyor acting for your neighbour will agree an amount. Again this is covered in detail in the</span><span lang="EN-US"> <a href="http://www.econoloft.co.uk/other_legislation.php" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">Party Wall Act</span> </a>You will however be responsible for paying the fees of both your surveyor and your neighbours. Obviously this is only the case when a neighbour objects and does not give permission happily – they cannot stop the conversion under the <a href="http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1996/40/contents" title="Terms"><span style="color: red;">Party Wall Act</span></a> but can insist on compensation. If you have applied for, and been given, the correct building regulation approval this may slow the conversion down slightly but it will still be allowed to go ahead.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US">The best advice to householders with party walls is to inform your neighbours well in advance and explain exactly what you are doing rather than just sending an official party wall notice. If you are fair and clear with them and re assure them that all building work will be completed in a professional manner with the least disruption possible they will probably be fine with granting permission – however by law you still need to serve the notice. Should they change their minds after work has started they can still appoint a surveyor (who you will have to pay for) to seek compensation.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US">If your loft is being converted by a specialist company, with years of experience, such as <a href="http://bit.ly/9ISK3p" target="_blank">Econoloft</a> they are able to deal with all permissions and paperwork on your behalf.</span></div><h5 style="color: #4f98cb; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; font-weight: bold; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 20px;"><a href="http://www.stgbc.org.uk/Advice-Guidance.asp?ID=7" target="_blank">Party Wall Advice</a></h5></div>Econoloft Ltdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18143138278124513891noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5823730781896948921.post-9461593353976179292012-02-04T04:11:00.000-08:002012-02-04T04:17:15.530-08:00Plumbing & Heating in a loft conversion<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br />
<div style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: Corbel;">These can be a real pain in a loft conversion so experience from a professional saves costly mistakes and ensures everything (i.e. radiators, plumbing, and windows) are all positioned to maximise on heating plus available space in the most cost effective way.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: Corbel;"><br />
</span></div><div style="background: white;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwJ8EJF8jsnwBofA2HZM4WVppi0s4hqTmwOzxt57Hyx89k-YI7lbQdSUVtRb9ajPXmDDkANkYA5D72S9Zaj6ylVsrMYOdFWRkhdAelQGQ1LwuRIxPHeNGply3_o65ivAXbWR0nIgznLePD/s1600/DSC00006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwJ8EJF8jsnwBofA2HZM4WVppi0s4hqTmwOzxt57Hyx89k-YI7lbQdSUVtRb9ajPXmDDkANkYA5D72S9Zaj6ylVsrMYOdFWRkhdAelQGQ1LwuRIxPHeNGply3_o65ivAXbWR0nIgznLePD/s320/DSC00006.jpg" width="213" /></a><span style="font-family: Corbel;">Plumbing issues will vary according to what the <a href="http://www.econoloft.co.uk/" target="_blank">loft</a> will be used for. If it is to be for an extra bedroom, office or children’s playroom then you will just have to heat the space, which would mean simply adding extra radiators and perhaps moving the water tanks/cisterns. However if you are planning an extra bedroom with an en suite bathroom – which most homes would probably benefit from most – then the plumbing issues are a lot more complicated. This is when experience from an expert conversion company ensures that the work not only enhances the <a href="http://www.econoloft.co.uk/" target="_blank">loft conversion</a> but importantly doesn’t have an adverse affect on the existing central heating system.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: Corbel;"><br />
</span></div><div style="background: white;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvlZN0LwhzwB8G7kqJeFN_6v0Y6Ifh98z4dl4wRIOS25rpA0aXi8MSZA7hDNjmKa4UwZCkEHU5-oxRDc07FCN4_vLuGcotopSJz5_UfmB5IcVjMsgpcxSvI_grDVKB4EM4nb7OdjfvyTOS/s1600/DSC00007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvlZN0LwhzwB8G7kqJeFN_6v0Y6Ifh98z4dl4wRIOS25rpA0aXi8MSZA7hDNjmKa4UwZCkEHU5-oxRDc07FCN4_vLuGcotopSJz5_UfmB5IcVjMsgpcxSvI_grDVKB4EM4nb7OdjfvyTOS/s320/DSC00007.jpg" width="213" /></a><span style="font-family: Corbel;">Issues such as the positioning of the existing waste pipe in relation to an <a href="http://www.fibreglasseal.co.uk/" target="_blank">en suite wetroom</a> and the stairs will determine the lay out. Also as most lofts have limited space you will probably have to opt for a shower rather than a bath in the en suite which will require full height and consequently a dormer window for the head space. Water pressures and boiler capacities lead in most cases to shower powers which heat the water from cold and means hot water will always be in supply for the basin. However if pressure is an issue you might have to install a pump. There are so many variables, as no two houses are the same, so the experience of a professional plumber is a must.<o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
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</span></div><div style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: Corbel;">Whatever you decide to use your loft conversion for it will pay dividends even in these challenging times. <a href="http://www.econoloft.co.uk/" target="_blank">econoloft.co.uk</a><o:p></o:p></span></div></div>Econoloft Ltdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18143138278124513891noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5823730781896948921.post-16436405783539668022012-02-04T03:35:00.000-08:002012-02-04T03:35:23.456-08:00Stages of development in a loft conversion from the beginning to the end.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:DocumentProperties> <o:Template>Normal.dotm</o:Template> <o:Revision>0</o:Revision> <o:TotalTime>0</o:TotalTime> <o:Pages>1</o:Pages> <o:Words>15</o:Words> <o:Characters>88</o:Characters> <o:Company>home</o:Company> <o:Lines>1</o:Lines> <o:Paragraphs>1</o:Paragraphs> <o:CharactersWithSpaces>108</o:CharactersWithSpaces> <o:Version>12.0</o:Version> </o:DocumentProperties> <o:OfficeDocumentSettings> <o:AllowPNG/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:TrackMoves>false</w:TrackMoves> <w:TrackFormatting/> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:DrawingGridHorizontalSpacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridHorizontalSpacing> <w:DrawingGridVerticalSpacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridVerticalSpacing> <w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery>0</w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery> <w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery>0</w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> <w:DontAutofitConstrainedTables/> <w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/> <w:UseFELayout/> </w:Compatibility> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" LatentStyleCount="276"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--> <!--[if gte mso 10]> <style>
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</style> <![endif]--> <!--StartFragment--> <div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Converting a loft space to a new room can be done in most houses – just ask us how to get the best result<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="mailto:becke@econoloft.co.uk" target="_blank">Loft Conversion with Velux call for FREE qoute 0800 269 765</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.econoloft.co.uk/" target="_blank">econoloft.co.uk</a></div></div>Econoloft Ltdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18143138278124513891noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5823730781896948921.post-53007865095710052502012-02-04T02:17:00.000-08:002012-02-04T02:23:51.925-08:00Important things to know about a loft conversion<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br />
<div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Corbel;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The most important thing when having your loft converted is</span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Corbel;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcdjqrhw0eQDknowI1o-G6wgJFp9bGKglwUDChxTaaN3YTD8TJYHJSnMoF0B6mOgLfRSbI46-gvFv7JECRx5mMVP2Z3Oaky6pzTQG34nI17879z1Gi3_UC2TopcU_FM8cttnTcR5zyv5Kp/s1600/P1030116.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcdjqrhw0eQDknowI1o-G6wgJFp9bGKglwUDChxTaaN3YTD8TJYHJSnMoF0B6mOgLfRSbI46-gvFv7JECRx5mMVP2Z3Oaky6pzTQG34nI17879z1Gi3_UC2TopcU_FM8cttnTcR5zyv5Kp/s320/P1030116.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Corbel;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Corbel; font-size: 12pt;">It may seem obvious to most people but the most important thing is getting building regulations approval and if needed planning permission. Believe it or not some<a href="http://www.econoloft.co.uk/" target="_blank"> lofts</a> are actually converted without these – predominantly self conversion ones- and of course this causes incredible problems when the house is sold.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Corbel; font-size: 12pt;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRy0Mxp6FdLuzd71mPJeFiTALHWQI75Ptm2RKGi4zbXLdLM-ZHmsHGQtZdelJ5IIaw-RRM1lgvKlBVIx-Nsz69dofROrRboru_yOJJ3EFgUAxGZp7pXPFQi-evCHF7wGYncSCXtf1qwSP1/s1600/P1030113.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRy0Mxp6FdLuzd71mPJeFiTALHWQI75Ptm2RKGi4zbXLdLM-ZHmsHGQtZdelJ5IIaw-RRM1lgvKlBVIx-Nsz69dofROrRboru_yOJJ3EFgUAxGZp7pXPFQi-evCHF7wGYncSCXtf1qwSP1/s320/P1030113.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Corbel; font-size: 12pt;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Corbel; font-size: 12pt;">Getting the permissions needed is fairly straightforward and any reputable firm doing the conversion will take the application over and do it on your behalf. This means there will be no hold up in the conversion and the project is completed without problems. At <a href="http://www.econoloft.co.uk/" target="_blank">Econoloft</a> a dedicated Project Manager takes on this role and they are all very experienced in all aspects of the planning regulations and liaise with you every step of the way.<o:p></o:p></span></div></div>Econoloft Ltdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18143138278124513891noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5823730781896948921.post-13347618618616108512012-01-11T04:09:00.000-08:002012-01-11T04:09:07.093-08:00Stairway to Heaven<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:DocumentProperties> <o:Template>Normal.dotm</o:Template> <o:Revision>0</o:Revision> <o:TotalTime>0</o:TotalTime> <o:Pages>1</o:Pages> <o:Words>187</o:Words> <o:Characters>1069</o:Characters> <o:Company>home</o:Company> <o:Lines>8</o:Lines> <o:Paragraphs>2</o:Paragraphs> <o:CharactersWithSpaces>1312</o:CharactersWithSpaces> <o:Version>12.0</o:Version> </o:DocumentProperties> <o:OfficeDocumentSettings> <o:AllowPNG/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:TrackMoves>false</w:TrackMoves> <w:TrackFormatting/> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:DrawingGridHorizontalSpacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridHorizontalSpacing> <w:DrawingGridVerticalSpacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridVerticalSpacing> <w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery>0</w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery> <w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery>0</w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> <w:DontAutofitConstrainedTables/> <w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/> <w:UseFELayout/> </w:Compatibility> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" LatentStyleCount="276"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--> <!--[if gte mso 10]> <style>
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<div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Your loft conversion may not quite be heaven but hopefully a heavenly new room created from what was a wasted storage space and so the staircase leading to this transformed and stylish new space needs to have the same wow factor. However, many home owners stick to the basics of safety and stability and don’t explore the creative possibilities when planning their stairway. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">The staircase needs to make a statement; it needs to be a taste of something exciting to come in the room above and should be an object of design and flair.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFrVSTF73Cj93dqZ5BDF8HqXVNlYmtA5FnOESz338Ydpt01TUqmBGQXADfGl4ob1zilNJtXUaPAMAS5PMmw9HIFkmfCH7Kl2dFTu6wK1IoMpU-jneC-sWxfa4z8wQkWy_pVzTrR4KLcu5a/s1600/ladder-590jd070210.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFrVSTF73Cj93dqZ5BDF8HqXVNlYmtA5FnOESz338Ydpt01TUqmBGQXADfGl4ob1zilNJtXUaPAMAS5PMmw9HIFkmfCH7Kl2dFTu6wK1IoMpU-jneC-sWxfa4z8wQkWy_pVzTrR4KLcu5a/s320/ladder-590jd070210.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span lang="EN-US"> However if storage and space is limited then look at the unique ways you can maximize space with a beautifully designed space saver staircase or one that cleverly incorporates storage.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIGhrtSeYLNRZ-DK9X6WYYMIuwET2UjSENnkxvnq1zOAJ3ra7yKptkvxTI4TWcitFD4BDNOZy4zO575KOrmRkmrMFBG-qHZ2st4kx09weRKFtDqrURfblrZ4AlDuGLci2DUyZJ2ZHs_QBW/s1600/stairs" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIGhrtSeYLNRZ-DK9X6WYYMIuwET2UjSENnkxvnq1zOAJ3ra7yKptkvxTI4TWcitFD4BDNOZy4zO575KOrmRkmrMFBG-qHZ2st4kx09weRKFtDqrURfblrZ4AlDuGLci2DUyZJ2ZHs_QBW/s320/stairs" width="299" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">If storage space isn’t an issue then whether you choose a glass staircase, an innovative wooden or steel one or a funky spiral one aim for a unique look that goes beyond being functional into being a work of art. However if storage and space is limited then look at the unique ways you can maximize space with a beautifully designed space saver staircase or one that cleverly incorporates storage.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOxrvHhnDx2t7nyLGu0MWiEAvOgtoEeZ_Di80p3cwIQfvFfhWz75FXYpGILyrngw0Fq2Bb0jU8KYfvjV6Hsb-DYhOCFBTmI5mNhDTAvdXTyZnGUkR69Dti8pCy6RBxk4mU9VViSThKeb5Z/s1600/hanging-box-stairs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOxrvHhnDx2t7nyLGu0MWiEAvOgtoEeZ_Di80p3cwIQfvFfhWz75FXYpGILyrngw0Fq2Bb0jU8KYfvjV6Hsb-DYhOCFBTmI5mNhDTAvdXTyZnGUkR69Dti8pCy6RBxk4mU9VViSThKeb5Z/s320/hanging-box-stairs.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US">Take a look at </span><span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://www.designsmag.com/2011/05/24-incredible-stairs-and-staircase-designs/"><span>these staircases</span></a></span><span lang="EN-US"> and you will see that the sky really is the limit nowadays; they will inspire you to think creatively about the staircase to your new <a href="http://www.loft-ideas.co.uk/" target="_blank">loft conversion</a>.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Whatever you choose it needn’t cost the earth to climb your very own stairway to heaven!<o:p></o:p></span></div><!--EndFragment--></div>Econoloft Ltdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18143138278124513891noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5823730781896948921.post-35167081123501705962012-01-07T03:37:00.000-08:002012-01-07T03:37:03.859-08:00Stairs to Loft Conversion and away to Store Your Books<h4 style="text-align: center;">Stairs that Store All of Your Books</h4><div>This incredible staircase is a lot to take in. It’s an ingenious way to store books, making it look so easy that we wonder why everyone living in a small space doesn’t take advantage of this setup.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Installed in a tiny London apartment, the stairs allow the tenants to access a previously unused <a href="http://www.loft-ideas.co.uk/" target="_blank">loft space </a>while also creating a library for their book collection.</div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQABTWQck_7maZpFcxrLwEFMOyTiSJXZJ5GYRScgeG1SYKEz7vE5euPsbynwiB_RqfLmBSGhRcSFgqk5QbQQNXHKR1F3Mr6XP5WUBMaHmfA28EWuYorXzhmFdoLaf-AXv0oSFBRH0DYwyJ/s1600/book-staircase.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="313" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQABTWQck_7maZpFcxrLwEFMOyTiSJXZJ5GYRScgeG1SYKEz7vE5euPsbynwiB_RqfLmBSGhRcSFgqk5QbQQNXHKR1F3Mr6XP5WUBMaHmfA28EWuYorXzhmFdoLaf-AXv0oSFBRH0DYwyJ/s320/book-staircase.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div>A skylight above illuminates the staircase, making it easy to see all the titles, and the shape of each stair allows the book browser to take a seat while perusing the selection.</div>Econoloft Ltdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18143138278124513891noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5823730781896948921.post-60336252088206336092012-01-07T03:17:00.000-08:002012-01-07T03:39:05.150-08:00Start the New Year with a new look for your home<div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US">The start of the year is a great time to tackle a few simple household jobs and get your property organised for 2012.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnLbzICN4ZYpMRFjPM9dr8Lrme6DzJ4jrXC78o8NLJLpDDg0b6nH0uA8ZyMvqT6-X0FuGSkUY3O3mIZV7ofzQV1UnJKBpHm-ezhEP0dmPkhFh6l545Nag-hjFmd7beKZ58R1z206epFF28/s1600/green+house.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="307" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnLbzICN4ZYpMRFjPM9dr8Lrme6DzJ4jrXC78o8NLJLpDDg0b6nH0uA8ZyMvqT6-X0FuGSkUY3O3mIZV7ofzQV1UnJKBpHm-ezhEP0dmPkhFh6l545Nag-hjFmd7beKZ58R1z206epFF28/s320/green+house.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><span lang="EN-US">1.<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><span lang="EN-US">Smoke/Carbon Monoxide Alarms – when did you last change the batteries and do you know most alarms have a limited lifespan? Check the manufacturers date and buy a new one if it’s over 10 years old – don’t put your life and your family’s at risk for a few pounds.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><span lang="EN-US">2.<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><span lang="EN-US">Boiler – have you had it serviced this winter? It will be more efficient after a full service. Also do you have a programmable thermostat? .If not install one to cut down on heating costs<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><span lang="EN-US">3.<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><span lang="EN-US">Cleaning – don’t wait until the spring start now. Clean your gutters, clean your windows, clean your carpets. All inexpensive things that will brighten up your home.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><span lang="EN-US">4.<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><span lang="EN-US">Decorate – if you haven’t decorated for some years try doing just one room – you’ll soon realise how tired and dull your house has become. If you search on line for furnishing bargains it needn’t be expensive to get a new look. Focus on a theme or colour for a new vibrant feel. Research has shown that living in a property we are proud of makes us feel happier and more confident.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><span lang="EN-US">5.<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><span lang="EN-US">More even than in 2011 this year will test nearly everyone’s finances. Think of ways to save money in your home. Use less water – water itself is expensive and you pay to heat it. Turn lights off. Get your house well insulated. Try heavier curtains in the winter. Look at solar heating options.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US">With the property market still in decline the option of moving isn’t going to be available for most people in 2012 so if you need more space or want a lighter, brighter house look at what you can improve where you are. For example a<a href="http://www.loft-ideas.co.uk/" target="_blank"> loft conversion</a> is cheaper than moving or building an extension and decorating and re-modeling your current house certainly is. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US">2012 is going to be a trying year for all so make your home a sanctuary where you can escape the pressures of the outside world.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaw-_R1YlzF94MsYQL92V39MczvXyNwjcXrcKOVBRaw4cYB_XL-CQ88gd-PRBmGBZU2wSDEGkEC8qv2Hu6t-rBrpL0Dkf9MhIfisMWJx5-hJfViCOUj5GL9LrouGKoTuujUDNyOQIHZeUp/s1600/stairs" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaw-_R1YlzF94MsYQL92V39MczvXyNwjcXrcKOVBRaw4cYB_XL-CQ88gd-PRBmGBZU2wSDEGkEC8qv2Hu6t-rBrpL0Dkf9MhIfisMWJx5-hJfViCOUj5GL9LrouGKoTuujUDNyOQIHZeUp/s320/stairs" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"><o:p> <a href="http://www.loft-ideas.co.uk/" target="_blank">loft-ideas</a></o:p></span></div>Econoloft Ltdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18143138278124513891noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5823730781896948921.post-74613963366730196412011-11-26T06:05:00.000-08:002011-11-26T06:05:38.235-08:00Looking At The Costs Of A Loft Conversion LondonIn relation to major renovations such as extensions and conversion, many house owners can be put off since they think the price will be way beyond their budgets. However, if you shop around and are all set to be flexible and open to new ideas regarding what you need from the finished product then this can be a fallacy. Let us consider for example then the cost of a loft conversion London to see in what areas we’re able to make savings.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCxlIF-ahHMU7gPL3W1-LUhcnrZshwau6vHwiWfCPaSMm9wijgHo9D_9a1Uq_fGhw-pfhMDBw4sECM71IoHPOUh3L57zgfCpDnhGfbYQta3J2cwdnPhpX1qg_MGPekyOdPtyRJA1RcGl8T/s1600/_FEK0003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCxlIF-ahHMU7gPL3W1-LUhcnrZshwau6vHwiWfCPaSMm9wijgHo9D_9a1Uq_fGhw-pfhMDBw4sECM71IoHPOUh3L57zgfCpDnhGfbYQta3J2cwdnPhpX1qg_MGPekyOdPtyRJA1RcGl8T/s320/_FEK0003.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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Following the roll out of new regulations in 2008, loft conversions are actually less expensive and simpler to undertake. The government has removed the requirement to make an application for planning permission for several types of loft conversions, that’s scaled back on the cost and overall time to deliver the project in many circumstances.<br />
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The loft conversion cost usually depends upon the kind of property to which the conversion will be added. If the house is particularly hard to convert as an example or if this is a listed building or situated in a conservation area and therefore restricted by size and the materials used then the conversion may be more expensive than on a more straightforward property.<br />
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As a rough guideline a loft conversion will set you back anything between 20,000 and 40,000 however, whenever you evaluate the extra room and value it is going to add to your property (which is anything up to 50,000) it’s going to definitely be worth the investment. Of course the price of your loft conversion London is determined by the scale, design and nature of the undertaking and whether there are actually any restrictions.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK5RfQmprQMb759KfWk5Nr-hEZ1KdNVNv0LuDogniY5duRz-t68klCwV06_FWcY1xxLNM6bbIOoHFAIA7NzxyvsFtOc1ydM2dwkFQ0nHOiMsJvSHNJl-RGMBODUGV5JWrW52119x5TKEwO/s1600/_FEK0011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK5RfQmprQMb759KfWk5Nr-hEZ1KdNVNv0LuDogniY5duRz-t68klCwV06_FWcY1xxLNM6bbIOoHFAIA7NzxyvsFtOc1ydM2dwkFQ0nHOiMsJvSHNJl-RGMBODUGV5JWrW52119x5TKEwO/s320/_FEK0011.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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Yet another thing that may affect the cost of your loft conversion will be your pick of windows. Roof windows are generally cheaper to install compared to the equivalent dormer windows and often provide more light inside the room.<br />
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When evaluating your loft conversion cost you could be best looking online to get a perception of prices from loft conversion companies so that you can evaluate the easiest way to plan your home improvement project in order that it fits in with your budget.<br />
When you’re considering a <a href="http://www.econoloft.co.uk/web/our_conversions/index.html" target="_blank">loft conversion London</a> why not first check out the Econoloft site to learn more about their <a href="http://www.econoloft.co.uk/web/about_econoloft/pricing_policy.html" target="_blank">loft conversion cost</a>.Econoloft Ltdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18143138278124513891noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5823730781896948921.post-67723578495352285512011-11-26T05:23:00.000-08:002011-11-26T05:46:13.115-08:00Free Quote From UK's Largest Loft Conversion Specialist's<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dz0JMrBMmHJK2k6V8xEZf6NCQGwf6YFkNbOGzZhepN-Vodu7GsiVNs8mDbdi3rX96nLtMnE6GfPn652u_OlWQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> <b>Loft conversions</b> are the most cost effective way of enhancing your home</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> <b>You will</b> gain extra space without the cost of moving or losing part of your garden</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>It will</b> add value to your property with an extra bathroom, bedroom or office</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> <b>Econoloft </b> is a family business with over 30 years experience and trusted reputation</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> <b>Econoloft</b> use its own dedicated team of craftsmen and designers</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> <b>Econoloft</b> guide you through all the processes including building regulations</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> <b>Econoloft</b> can show you many examples and designs of conversions they have done</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> <b>Econoloft</b> have a wealth of creative ideas adaptable to any property</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> <b>Econoloft</b> is committed to delivering excellent workmanship, quality and style.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> <b>You will</b> have your own Project Manager to ensure high results and smooth running</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.loft-ideas.co.uk/" target="_blank">loft-ideas</a></div>Econoloft Ltdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18143138278124513891noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5823730781896948921.post-51110676217374299862011-11-05T07:20:00.000-07:002011-11-05T07:20:12.758-07:00Make your home a source of income<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:DocumentProperties> <o:Template>Normal.dotm</o:Template> <o:Revision>0</o:Revision> <o:TotalTime>0</o:TotalTime> <o:Pages>1</o:Pages> <o:Words>5</o:Words> <o:Characters>29</o:Characters> <o:Company>home</o:Company> <o:Lines>1</o:Lines> <o:Paragraphs>1</o:Paragraphs> <o:CharactersWithSpaces>35</o:CharactersWithSpaces> <o:Version>12.0</o:Version> </o:DocumentProperties> <o:OfficeDocumentSettings> <o:AllowPNG/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:TrackMoves>false</w:TrackMoves> <w:TrackFormatting/> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:DrawingGridHorizontalSpacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridHorizontalSpacing> <w:DrawingGridVerticalSpacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridVerticalSpacing> <w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery>0</w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery> <w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery>0</w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> <w:DontAutofitConstrainedTables/> <w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/> <w:UseFELayout/> </w:Compatibility> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" LatentStyleCount="276"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--> <!--[if gte mso 10]> <style>
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</style> <![endif]--> <!--StartFragment--> </b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Corbel;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB__OULijQVW1Pj6EjdUdOywdViAr6Q8v97O9y6Qv9nf89u_O1KzWignpMNLVHylUuI23ZulUB7Kr66BS9JXHfBybcw677o_6RuTcyQdCXuDoHDDJFM4VQ1zhaFJoE2vulfRMS_xBcQ5M7/s1600/outside+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB__OULijQVW1Pj6EjdUdOywdViAr6Q8v97O9y6Qv9nf89u_O1KzWignpMNLVHylUuI23ZulUB7Kr66BS9JXHfBybcw677o_6RuTcyQdCXuDoHDDJFM4VQ1zhaFJoE2vulfRMS_xBcQ5M7/s320/outside+4.JPG" width="320" /></a></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Corbel;"><b><span style="font-family: Corbel;"><br />
</span></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Corbel;"><b><span style="font-family: Corbel;">How could your house make you some money in these hard times? Even pay for your loft conversion.Try some of these options:<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Corbel;"><b><span style="font-family: Corbel;"><br />
</span></b></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Corbel;"><b> <div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Corbel; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Rent a Room – </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Corbel; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">you could earn as much as £600 a month and much of that could be tax free. In cities like London or Manchester it’s a great way to earn money by renting to a commuter only needing the room during the week.. <a href="http://www.loft-ideas.co.uk/">http://www.loft-ideas.co.uk</a><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicSno_fUuZvr5DELjFNsvKaTmOvWGx1RRNMis_ie9zaKgpmKZq8jPEvjDhodXhesF7GRY05gT1wd6lHOz57qVtcOrakBHJBuAMvr-5dgQ2YsuZZoZPQsocMIMIM4i3_fAJdssjAxRtfcmg/s1600/0FEK0061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicSno_fUuZvr5DELjFNsvKaTmOvWGx1RRNMis_ie9zaKgpmKZq8jPEvjDhodXhesF7GRY05gT1wd6lHOz57qVtcOrakBHJBuAMvr-5dgQ2YsuZZoZPQsocMIMIM4i3_fAJdssjAxRtfcmg/s320/0FEK0061.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Corbel; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 12pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Corbel; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Turn your garage into a home office –</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Corbel; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> do you really use your garage? For very little expense you could convert it into an office and rent it to a self employed person at slightly below “office Rates” then you’re both happy.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjetGKm7kO2AlMxIl4pgitmIhbPo1xH5cbgLy9lpVXSBSE3vPFX6LknOt_TRwsqzacjwwdd-xSk6OTrlk0cxxucVNwUFcU2-oTum9sLZ5LTe_5Dyp0gQX4plqO9MarfLojx447AGBBQPJbq/s1600/0FEK0564.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjetGKm7kO2AlMxIl4pgitmIhbPo1xH5cbgLy9lpVXSBSE3vPFX6LknOt_TRwsqzacjwwdd-xSk6OTrlk0cxxucVNwUFcU2-oTum9sLZ5LTe_5Dyp0gQX4plqO9MarfLojx447AGBBQPJbq/s320/0FEK0564.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 12pt;"><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Corbel; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Rent Your Driveway – </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Corbel;">if you live near a commuter station or near a town centre you could easily earn £100 a month for one space.<u><o:p></o:p></u></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 12pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Corbel;"><br />
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<!--EndFragment-->Econoloft Ltdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18143138278124513891noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5823730781896948921.post-65412993708322597522011-11-05T06:33:00.000-07:002011-11-05T07:24:58.891-07:00Add Value and space to your home<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRjW_PCi342JxRijH3vyRK_8_mwfwRGz0o1uTZqQgrt4w3SMgCZqlnAKmTRCdpGME_Gs4LzNdCP6zTCqhPzZvxuFi0mmUfI0UvvBRux2KU8oGmQVtgpvWDEZ8buqqDiHAkBgt6nESiq4cA/s1600/econoloft4" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRjW_PCi342JxRijH3vyRK_8_mwfwRGz0o1uTZqQgrt4w3SMgCZqlnAKmTRCdpGME_Gs4LzNdCP6zTCqhPzZvxuFi0mmUfI0UvvBRux2KU8oGmQVtgpvWDEZ8buqqDiHAkBgt6nESiq4cA/s320/econoloft4" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Corbel;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Corbel;">Deciding to convert your loft is a big decision but no matter what your needs or budget Econoloft’s experienced team of loft conversion experts can transform your empty loft space into an attractive and useful new room. We pride ourselves on the excellent workmanship and design our craftsmen have developed over the last 30 years. Our reputation as one of the country’s leading loft converters is based on our quality product, experience and high level of service.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.loft-ideas.co.uk/"><img border="0" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNvgpaxsWRHVyHAUVbbAxvSb3v2IxIfzW7GrU6pwAt_zaVPM4SURlfUaYHCnwEi8DEOy84diPn5reF1__-djCOH3EOMdqf5BdgSdNYkG1CykYsbdr9V79UQRWI3nLyr4RE3MQgm412oKjz/s320/ECONOLOFTSpringGreen.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Corbel;">We start with a free site survey and work closely with you to ensure that the finished conversion gives you the room of your dreams - within budget and never compromising on standards. Your new loft space could add as much as 30% to the value of your home. <a href="http://www.loft-ideas.co.uk/">loft-ideas</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>Econoloft Ltdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18143138278124513891noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5823730781896948921.post-55076810616948334672011-10-08T04:00:00.000-07:002011-10-08T05:20:11.559-07:00The upsizing downsizers<h2><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px;">Can't afford the mortgage? Why not buy a smaller (and cheaper) home – then add a loft or extension. We talk to a family who did both.</span></h2><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px;"></span><br />
<div class="standard-summary-full-width"><div class="author-comments"><div class="tools comments-parent"><ul></ul></div></div><span class="multi-position-img-left" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"> <img alt="Paul and Lisa Jones with their children Isabella 11, William 8 and Jemima 6 at their home in Fleet, Hampshire (Peter Tarry)" height="212" src="http://www.thesundaytimes.co.uk/sto/multimedia/dynamic/00208/Extension-1024_208802k.jpg" title="Paul and Lisa Jones with their children Isabella 11, William 8 and Jemima 6 at their home in Fleet, Hampshire (Peter Tarry)" width="320" /> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px;"><span class="multi-position-img-left"><span class="multi-position-photo-text">Paul and Lisa Jones with their children in their new kitchen in Fleet (Peter Tarry) </span> </span> </span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px;"><span class="drop-caps-standard-article"> R </span> ight-size house, but too big a mortgage. Sound familiar? With rising living costs, jobs not as secure as they once were and the realisation that the only way for interest rates is up, you’re not alone if you feel the need to find a way of reducing your biggest monthly outgoing. On the other hand, having stretched yourself to buy a larger house with all the space you need, moving to a smaller home may seem like a painful step backwards. <br />
There is, however, a way to downsize so that you end up owing less, but have the same amount of living space. As one family found, the trick is to buy a smaller home with potential for expansion. Call it move and improve. <br />
There was nothing wrong with Paul and Lisa Jones’s house in Fleet, Hampshire, except the mortgage. It was a new four-bedroom detached property with a garage, a drive, a good-sized garden and a playroom for their three children. They’d bought it new in 2007 for £370,000, before the recession, when house prices were at their peak. Two years later, they were struggling to avoid an overdraft. <br />
<span class="quote quote-right"><span class="quote-text"> Lisa was in tears because the house felt so much smaller. But as soon as the wall was removed between the kitchen and dining room, it seemed better</span><span class="quoteFoot"> </span></span>“Like most people, we had aspired to bigger and better, and had moved up the property ladder,” says Paul, 41, a fire-station manager. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px;"><br />
“We had a large mortgage, and the cost of living was rising while house prices were falling. I felt that I was working just to pay the mortgage and bills, and things were getting tougher.” </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px;"><br />
The couple decided that the only way to make ends meet was to downsize — but they wanted to stay in the same area and didn’t want to compromise on space. When they started to look at lower-priced three-bedroom houses near where they lived, in Elvetham Heath, on the edge of town, they realised that they might be able to create extra bedrooms by converting the loft space. <br />
“The first thing we did when viewing a house was open up the loft hatch to measure the space,” Paul says. “Our criteria were a loft that could be converted and a kitchen at the back of the house.” They knew that the kitchen would be the room they used most, and wanted it to connect with the garden for “indoor/outdoor” living, which would give the feeling of extra space. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px;"><br />
When they found a suitable property, they thought that, as well as converting the loft, they could remodel the interior by demolishing the wall between the kitchen and dining room, creating a bigger open-plan family living space. The numbers stacked up, too: they got £365,000 for their home, a small loss, but the new property cost just £240,000, not only allowing them to finance the changes, but reducing their mortgage by a handy £600 a month. <br />
“The day we moved in, Lisa was in tears because the house felt so much smaller,” Paul recalls. “But as soon as the wall was removed between the kitchen and dining room, it seemed a lot better.” A brand-new kitchen with a central island was fitted, and most of the external back wall was replaced by floor-to-ceiling bi-fold glazed doors, allowing the inside to flow seamlessly into the garden. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.thesundaytimes.co.uk/sto/multimedia/archive/00208/Jones-kicthen_208803a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Home of Lisa and Paul Jones (HO)" border="0" height="212" src="http://www.thesundaytimes.co.uk/sto/multimedia/archive/00208/Jones-kicthen_208803a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span class="multi-position-img-left para-top" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; width: 580px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px;"><span class="multi-position-img-left para-top" style="width: 580px;"><span class="multi-position-photo-text">The Joneses added a loft extension and opened up the downstairs living area (HO) </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px;"> The next step was to get the loft converted as economically as possible. “We knew we couldn’t go above £23,000, so I really shopped around,” Paul says. “I got three quotes, then bargained to get them down to our budget. We went with a company called Econoloft in the end, because they were prepared to be flexible and listened to what I wanted.” </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px;"> As the third bedroom was pokey, they decided to knock the two smallest bedrooms into one, which created enough space to build a staircase into the loft. The loft was then converted into two generous rooms, giving the house four double bedrooms: plenty of room for Isabella, 11, William, 8, and Jemima, 6, to have their own space. <br />
“One of the ways we saved money was by not having a bathroom up there,” Paul says. “There’s a bathroom on the first floor and we’ve got an ensuite power shower in our bedroom. There’s also a cloakroom downstairs — I thought three loos were enough. We also had big skylights instead of dormer windows, which kept the cost down.” </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px;"><br />
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px;"><a href="http://www.thesundaytimes.co.uk/sto/multimedia/archive/00208/Jones-house_208804a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="House of Paul and Lisa Jones near Fleet, Hampshire (HO)" border="0" height="300" src="http://www.thesundaytimes.co.uk/sto/multimedia/archive/00208/Jones-house_208804a.jpg" width="220" /></a></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px;"> </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px;"><br />
</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px;"><span class="multi-position-img-right para-top" style="width: 220px;"><span class="multi-position-photo-text">The Joneses’ new Hampshire home </span></span> Michael Holmes, TV presenter and home-improvement expert, says the type of loft structure can make a lot of difference to the cost of conversion. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px;"><br />
“Downsizing to a project with scope to add value can be an excellent strategy for building equity or reducing debt,” he says. “But you need to assess the property’s potential carefully. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px;"><br />
“What you are looking for is the worst house you can find on the best street you can afford. If you are looking at older properties for a loft conversion, look for one with a steep roof pitch and a traditional cut roof, which lends itself to a simple conversion, rather than a modern ‘fink’ truss roof made up of a web of thin timbers. The latter can be converted, but it is more expensive.” <br />
The Joneses, meanwhile, have no regrets about downsizing. “We all love the new house, which has turned out to be much more spacious with our alterations and the loft conversion,” says Lisa, 39, who works part-time as an administrator for a marketing company. “The size is not too dissimilar to our old house and the layout is more user-friendly. I’m in love with the kitchen, which is where we spend most of our time.” </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px;"><br />
Do they miss anything about the old house? “Well, the garden’s smaller,” Paul says, “but it’s south-facing, which the old one wasn’t, so we use it more. In fact, we’re surprised at how well everything’s worked out.” <br />
<i>Econoloft (<a href="http://www.loft-ideas.co.uk/">www.loft-ideas.co.uk</a>), which converted the Joneses’ loft, is at the National Home Improvement Show, Earls Court, London SW5, which ends today</i> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px;">Converting a loft tends to be the most cost-effective way of adding rooms — and value — to your home. Will it work for you? </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px;"></span><br />
<h3><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px;"> Lofty ideals</span></h3><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px;"> <b>Is my loft suitable?</b><br />
Nearly all lofts can be converted, provided they have a minimum height of 2.3 metres across about half of the floor area. Putting in dormer windows will add to the usable space, though this is normally possible only at the back of the property. Houses built before the 1960s are generally easier to convert, as they tend to have a clear space between the supports. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px;"><b><br />
</b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px;"> <b>How much will it cost?</b><br />
Normally £20,000-£30,000 for a three-bedroom house, or £40,000 for bigger houses with larger lofts. Putting in a bathroom can add considerably to the cost. <br />
<b>How long will it take?</b><br />
If the work is straightforward, reckon on 4-6 weeks. <br />
<br />
</span></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px;"><a href="http://www.thesundaytimes.co.uk/sto/"><img alt="Sunday Times" height="36" src="http://www.thesundaytimes.co.uk/sto/public/images/logos/logo-section.gif" title="Sunday Times" width="195" /></a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px;"> <b>Who should do the work?</b><br />
<a href="http://www.thesundaytimes.co.uk/sto/style/homes_and_gardens/Move/article786782.ece">http://www.thesundaytimes.co.uk/sto/style/homes_and_gardens/Move/article786782.ece</a></span></div>Econoloft Ltdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18143138278124513891noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5823730781896948921.post-7639150611909264822011-09-10T07:15:00.000-07:002011-09-10T07:15:34.505-07:00Extra bedroom and en-suite is top loft conversion<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:DocumentProperties> <o:Template>Normal.dotm</o:Template> <o:Revision>0</o:Revision> <o:TotalTime>0</o:TotalTime> <o:Pages>1</o:Pages> <o:Words>177</o:Words> <o:Characters>1010</o:Characters> <o:Company>home</o:Company> <o:Lines>8</o:Lines> <o:Paragraphs>2</o:Paragraphs> <o:CharactersWithSpaces>1240</o:CharactersWithSpaces> <o:Version>12.0</o:Version> </o:DocumentProperties> <o:OfficeDocumentSettings> <o:AllowPNG/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:TrackMoves>false</w:TrackMoves> <w:TrackFormatting/> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:DrawingGridHorizontalSpacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridHorizontalSpacing> <w:DrawingGridVerticalSpacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridVerticalSpacing> <w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery>0</w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery> <w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery>0</w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> <w:DontAutofitConstrainedTables/> <w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/> </w:Compatibility> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" LatentStyleCount="276"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--> <!--[if gte mso 10]> <style>
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<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><u><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Extra bedroom and en-suite is top loft conversion <b><o:p></o:p></b></span></u></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbya1S7DV8G45n0mHa2bWGaJc0UYKobb1C7E7MxLM5n3NQ00dSQdoERhD3WKVaWil2P0DCdCpLv3CNss6inSVcqoS-uWAgQdmkKatXK5bPt_5imTcK8yQIgtTMcCkbDLAQ_ElWfdCtCl6a/s1600/0FEK0026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbya1S7DV8G45n0mHa2bWGaJc0UYKobb1C7E7MxLM5n3NQ00dSQdoERhD3WKVaWil2P0DCdCpLv3CNss6inSVcqoS-uWAgQdmkKatXK5bPt_5imTcK8yQIgtTMcCkbDLAQ_ElWfdCtCl6a/s320/0FEK0026.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri;"><b><u><br />
</u></b></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">A bedroom with ensuite facilities was the most popular loft conversion according to Econoloft - the only loft conversion company that works across the country.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Becke Livesey from the company said:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“We complete around 200 loft conversions a year and by far the most popular reason was to create more room for a growing family which usually means adding an extra bedroom.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Making a 2-bedroom house into a 3-bedroom house or extending a 3-bedroom property into a 4-bedroom property can really make a difference to a family.”<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Space, particularly in areas like Greater London, remains at a premium, and for many families extending into the attic represents good value for money.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“With a new baby on the way or even the return of grown up children – our experience suggests that people do look at moving home first as a means to getting that all important extra bedroom,” said Becke.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“However, they find that moving house is often much more expensive than a loft conversion which is why it remains a popular option for home owners.” <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">The Econoloft top five loft conversion are: <a href="http://www.loft-ideas.co.uk/">loft-ideas.co.uk</a><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Master bedroom with ensuite facilities<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Bedroom<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Home Office<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Teen space/den<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Home cinema<o:p></o:p></span></div><!--EndFragment-->Econoloft Ltdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18143138278124513891noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5823730781896948921.post-79916601345832145482011-09-10T04:12:00.000-07:002011-09-10T04:12:54.663-07:00Cash in the Attic<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:DocumentProperties> <o:Template>Normal.dotm</o:Template> <o:Revision>0</o:Revision> <o:TotalTime>0</o:TotalTime> <o:Pages>1</o:Pages> <o:Words>169</o:Words> <o:Characters>964</o:Characters> <o:Company>home</o:Company> <o:Lines>8</o:Lines> <o:Paragraphs>1</o:Paragraphs> <o:CharactersWithSpaces>1183</o:CharactersWithSpaces> <o:Version>12.0</o:Version> </o:DocumentProperties> <o:OfficeDocumentSettings> <o:AllowPNG/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:TrackMoves>false</w:TrackMoves> <w:TrackFormatting/> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:DrawingGridHorizontalSpacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridHorizontalSpacing> <w:DrawingGridVerticalSpacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridVerticalSpacing> <w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery>0</w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery> <w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery>0</w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> <w:DontAutofitConstrainedTables/> <w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/> </w:Compatibility> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" LatentStyleCount="276"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--> <!--[if gte mso 10]> <style>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ansi-language: EN;">It probably comes as no surprise to learn that a loft convesion is probably the best project homeowners can do in order to add value totheir home. Leading building societies and experts like estate agents consistently report that a well designed loft conversion can add anything from £20,000 to £40,000 to the value of your home.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ansi-language: EN;"><br />
</span><br />
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Becke Livesey from loft conversion expert Econoloft said:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Having your loft converted tends to top the list in most surveys around DIYand renovations,” she said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ansi-language: EN;">“Creating additional living space, particulary where space is at a premium is by far the best way of increasing the value of your home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A loft conversion is also often cheaper than moving – particulary if the only reason for the move is extra space.”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ansi-language: EN;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxkwrC5hjmiun3aMTQZVKDT6WT1JHj6srkC9TuQHkHT71YNaxyUFisZtN4WRa8-l6rHyeN6yqT5aB_KQNMSW1XKOXZTqPXj1T_Pj1U6yMqcUQUN65uaXkCfmyNhT7_xVM1EfUkFpAovkPR/s1600/becke1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxkwrC5hjmiun3aMTQZVKDT6WT1JHj6srkC9TuQHkHT71YNaxyUFisZtN4WRa8-l6rHyeN6yqT5aB_KQNMSW1XKOXZTqPXj1T_Pj1U6yMqcUQUN65uaXkCfmyNhT7_xVM1EfUkFpAovkPR/s320/becke1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri;"><br />
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ansi-language: EN;">It is imperative that when considering a conversion you seek professional advice at an early stage, as if these alterations are not handled correctly it can have the opposite effect and actually decrease the value of the home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <a href="http://www.loft-ideas.co.uk/">loft-ideas</a></span></span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Becke said:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“We know that a loft conversion is a major financial undertaking but if you do it right and use an experienced company like Econoloft – chances are there is cash in your attic!”<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><a href="mailto:becke@econoloft.co.uk">becke</a></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><br />
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