DIY Loft Conversion Cost and Price Guide

Thinking of converting your loft? You could save money by carrying out the conversion yourself – get an idea of DIY Loft Conversion Costs here.

If you fancy a bit of extra space in the home – whether it be an additional bedroom, a new office space or study area, an extra bathroom or even a quiet hang-out space – but don’t want to vacate the property for a couple of weeks while a bunch of builders invades your home, then why not look into a DIY loft conversion instead?

It may sound a little daunting, but doing the refurbishment yourself (and perhaps bringing in a few mates to help out here and there) can save a lot of money in labour fees. Plus, it adds a rare, personal touch to the new, renovated space that can’t often be achieved in communicating written or verbal plans to an external contractor. You will also be able to set your own budget and timescale that fits around your other work and life commitments, and you will be able to customize and change things as you go if you aren’t pleased with the work-in-progress!

Summary of DIY Loft Conversion Costs:

• Price Range = £9,400 to £48,800
• Average Cost = £29,100
• Cheapest Price = £9400

DIY Loft Conversion Cost Breakdown

But how much will a DIY loft conversion cost you? Well, renovating and refurbishing your loft space by yourself means that, first of all, you will have to budget carefully and purchase all the necessary materials before getting started. To help you on your way, we’ve put together the following list of fittings, materials, appliances and fixtures that you might need to invest in (and make sure you are capable of installing too!) for a basic attic conversion (that is, not a mansard, hip-to-gable or dormer conversion):

• Structural Beams, Joists, and Masonry: including flooring, doors and a new staircase will cost between £1,000 and £5,000
• Electrical Wiring and Lighting: including plug sockets, bulbs and fixtures will cost between £1,500 and £3,500
• Insulation: including plasterboard and boarding costs between £500 and £800
• New Bathroom: all pipe-work, basins and shower fittings, and tiling will cost between £4,000 to £6,000
• Windows: two small or one large velux-style skylights, double glazed  will cost between £800 and £2,000
• A New Combi-Boiler: if necessary will cost around £800 to £1,500
• Interior Design Materials: paint, wallpaper, storage cupboards, new furniture will cost around  £800 to £30,000
• Total Cost for DIY Loft Conversion: £9,400 to £48,800

Remember, DIY loft conversion costs can be kept down if you shop around for materials across a range of wholesalers, retailers, and manufacturers. Finding special offers or package deals will also help keep costs low and comparing prices before buying allows you to keep track of your budget and work out how much needs saving as you go. It’s also important to always keep some money aside for unexpected mishaps or mistakes that could end up shutting the project down.

Hiring a Professional Loft Conversion Company

It should be noted, however, that DIY loft conversions should only be attempted by those competent and proficient enough in building and construction work; don’t underestimate the time and energy that will need to be invested in the project. If you feel like you might lack the time or confidence to get it done, then you can always opt to hire a professional loft conversion contractor. They can still liaise with you to make sure your loft conversion plans are fully and successfully realized in a matter of weeks.