News - Complete loft conversions Suffolk Ipswich

Planning Permission for Loft Conversions in Suffolk: A Homeowner’s Guide

May 26, 2025 Greg Nelson

If you’re thinking about converting your loft into a new bedroom, office, or master suite, you’re not alone. Loft conversions are one of the most popular home improvements in Suffolk — and for good reason. They add valuable living space without using up garden area, and in many cases, planning permission isn’t even required.

But before you start designing your dream loft, it’s important to understand what the rules are, and when you might need permission from your local council.

Let’s break it down.

✅ When You Don’t Need Planning Permission

Many loft conversions fall under what’s called Permitted Development Rights (PDR). This means you can carry out the work without needing formal planning approval — as long as certain conditions are met.

To qualify:

Detached or semi-detached homes can add up to 50m³ of additional roof space.
Terraced houses are limited to 40m³.
The extension must not extend beyond the existing roof slope at the front of the house (facing the road).
It must be below the highest part of the existing roof.
Materials should be in keeping with the appearance of the property.
No verandas, balconies or raised platforms are allowed.
Side windows must be obscure-glazed and non-opening below 1.7m from floor level.

🛑 Important: These rights do not apply to flats, maisonettes, or listed buildings. And they may be restricted in conservation areas or areas with an Article 4 direction.

📍 Suffolk-Specific Planning Considerations

In Suffolk, some towns and villages have conservation areas where the council has more control over what changes can be made to properties. These include parts of:

Ipswich
Woodbridge
Framlingham
Southwold
Bury St Edmunds
Aldeburgh
Lavenham

If your property falls within one of these areas, you may need full planning permission even for relatively modest loft changes. Always check with your local authority first — this could be Ipswich Borough Council, East Suffolk Council, or Mid Suffolk Council, depending on your location.

🏗️ When You Do Need Planning Permission

You’ll likely need planning permission if:

Your conversion exceeds the volume limits of 40/50m³.
You’re adding a front-facing dormer or mansard roof.
You live in a flat, maisonette, listed building, or designated area.
You’re planning structural changes that significantly alter the property’s appearance.

🛠️ What About Building Regulations?

Even if you don’t need planning permission, you will always need Building Regulations approval. This ensures your new loft room is safe and suitable for living in.

Building regulations cover:

Structural safety (including strengthening floor joists)
Fire safety (escape routes, alarms, and fire doors)
Insulation and ventilation
Head height and access (stairs)

At Loft Conversions Suffolk, we take care of all the building control submissions for you — giving you complete peace of mind.

👷‍♂️ Let Us Handle the Paperwork

Navigating planning rules can be a headache, especially in older or more protected areas of Suffolk. That’s why we offer a complete design and planning service, handling:

Permitted development assessments
Planning applications (if needed)
Building control approval
Drawings and structural calculations

🏡 Ready to Start Your Loft Project?

If you’re considering a loft conversion anywhere in Ipswich, Woodbridge, Felixstowe, Stowmarket, or the wider Suffolk area, we’re here to help.

Get in touch today for friendly advice, a free survey, and a no-obligation quote you can use our contact form here or our full details are below.

📞 Call: 07588 825660
📧 Email: admin@loft-conversions-suffolk-ipswich.co.uk/
🌐 Visit: https://loft-conversions-suffolk-ipswich.co.uk

Quality loft conversions in Ipswich Suffolk

Planning Permission for Loft Conversions in Suffolk – What You Need to Know

May 26, 2025 Greg Nelson

Loft conversions are one of the most cost-effective and popular ways to add space and value to your home in Suffolk. Whether you’re looking to create an extra bedroom, office, or en suite master suite, converting your loft can be a smart investment.

But one of the most common questions we hear from homeowners is:

“Do I need planning permission for a loft conversion?”

The answer? Not always. Here’s everything you need to know about planning permission for loft conversions in Suffolk.

✅ Most Loft Conversions Fall Under Permitted Development

In many cases, you won’t need planning permission thanks to Permitted Development Rights (PDR). These are rules set by the government that allow homeowners to carry out certain types of work without needing full planning consent.

To qualify under permitted development, your loft conversion must meet the following conditions:

The additional roof space created does not exceed:
- 40m³ for terraced houses
- 50m³ for semi-detached and detached houses
The conversion does not extend beyond the existing roof slope on the front of the house (typically facing the road)
Materials used are similar in appearance to the existing house
There is no raised platform or balcony
Any side-facing windows are obscure-glazed and non-opening below 1.7m
The roof extension does not overhang the outer wall

🛑 Flats, maisonettes, and listed buildings do not benefit from permitted development rights — these always require planning permission.

🏘️ Suffolk-Specific Considerations

While national rules apply, certain areas in Suffolk are designated conservation areas or fall under Article 4 directions, which remove permitted development rights. These are often in:

Central Ipswich
Woodbridge
Bury St Edmunds
Framlingham
Some coastal villages like Aldeburgh and Southwold

If your property is in one of these areas, you will likely need to apply for full planning permission even for minor alterations.

📝 When Planning Permission Is Required

You’ll need planning permission if:

Your loft conversion exceeds the volume limits (50m³/40m³)
You want a mansard or dormer on the front roof slope
Your house is in a designated area or listed
The loft is part of a flat or commercial property

📑 Building Regulations Still Apply

Even if you don’t need planning permission, building regulations approval is always required. This ensures your loft is:

Structurally sound
Fire safe
Properly insulated
Has adequate headroom and escape access

At Loft Conversions Suffolk, we manage all building control interactions and ensure full compliance.

🏡 Need Help Navigating the Rules?

At Loft Conversions Suffolk, we take the stress out of the planning process. Our team will:

Check if your project qualifies under permitted development
Submit planning applications where required
Liaise with local authorities (Ipswich Borough Council, East Suffolk Council, etc.)
Ensure your loft meets all legal and safety standards

🚀 Ready to Convert Your Loft?

If you’re planning a loft conversion in Ipswich, Woodbridge, or anywhere in Suffolk, contact us today for a free quote and expert advice.

Don’t hesitate to contact us via our web form here.

Loft storage solutions

Price to install loft ladders in Ipswich Suffolk

October 10, 2024 Greg Nelson

Guide to Loft Ladder Installation Costs in Ipswich

Installing loft ladders is a practical home improvement that can provide easy and safe access to your loft space, whether for storage or using extra boarding or insulation. If you’re in Ipswich and considering this upgrade, you’re probably wondering about the costs involved complete loft conversions can fit loft ladders and board out your loft due to our expertise in building work but incase you don’t need a full loft conversion, here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to pay, along with the factors that influence the overall price.

Average Cost to Install Loft Ladders in Ipswich

On average, the cost to install a loft ladder in Ipswich ranges between **£150 to £500**, depending on the type of ladder and the complexity of the job. Here’s a closer look at the different types of loft ladders available and their price ranges:

1. **Aluminium Loft Ladders**:
– **Cost**: £150 – £350
– These are lightweight, durable, and one of the most budget-friendly options. Ideal for infrequent use in homes where space is limited.

2. **Wooden Loft Ladders**:
– **Cost**: £250 – £560
– Wooden ladders are more aesthetically pleasing and sturdier than aluminium ones, often chosen for homes where the loft is regularly accessed and can be folded away without taking up room in the loft .

3. **Telescopic Loft Ladders**:
– **Cost**: £200 – £450
– Telescopic ladders are compact, easy to use, and great for tight spaces. They offer a balance between price and convenience but generally are more expensive.

4. **Electric Loft Ladders**:
– **Cost**: £400 – £800+
– If you’re looking for a premium option, electric loft ladders are fully automated, providing effortless access at the push of a button. These are best suited for homeowners looking for ultimate convenience and frequent access.

Factors That Affect Loft Ladder Installation Costs

Several factors can influence the final cost of installing a loft ladder in Ipswich:

1. **Type of Ladder**: As mentioned above, the material and design of the ladder will significantly impact the price.

2. **Loft Hatch Enlargement or Relocation**: If your existing loft hatch is too small or in an awkward position, you may need to enlarge or relocate it, which can increase the cost by **£100 to £200** depending on the complexity.

3. **Labour Costs**: Installation labour in Ipswich typically costs between **£150 and £250**, depending on the complexity of the job. If your loft hatch needs modification or if there are obstacles like pipes or cables in the way, this could raise the price.

4. **Additional Features**: If you require extra features such as insulation, safety rails, or loft boarding to enhance the accessibility and usability of your loft, the price will increase accordingly.

Benefits of Installing Loft Ladders

Beyond the cost, there are several reasons why loft ladders are a valuable investment:

– **Maximise Storage**: Gain easy access to extra storage space, making your home more organised.
– **Increase Property Value**: Improving access to your loft can be a selling point if you decide to move in the future.
– **Convenience**: No need to drag a step ladder from the shed every time you need to access your loft.
– **Safety**: Loft ladders are designed for safe, stable use compared to makeshift alternatives.

How Long Does It Take to Install a Loft Ladder?

Most loft ladder installations take between **2 to 6 hours**, depending on the type of ladder and whether any modifications to the hatch are needed. Hiring a professional installer ensures the job is done safely and efficiently.

Finding a Loft Ladder Installer in Ipswich

When looking for an installer in Ipswich, it’s essential to get multiple quotes to ensure you’re getting a competitive price. Be sure to check reviews, ask about experience with loft ladders, and confirm that the installer is fully insured and qualified.

Final Thoughts

The cost of installing loft ladders in Ipswich varies based on your choice of ladder, the condition of your loft hatch, and other factors. Whether you opt for a simple aluminium ladder or a more luxurious electric model, adding a loft ladder can enhance the functionality of your home and make your loft space more accessible.

Complete loft conversions can install your loft ladder If you’re ready to explore your options, reach out to local installers for a personalised quote. Investing in a loft ladder is a cost-effective way to make better use of your home’s available space please contact us.

Let me know if you need specific installer recommendations or more details about the installation process!

Loft conversion Costs 2024

How much is a loft conversion in 2024

August 4, 2024 Greg Nelson

Well the biggest question about loft conversions is not only is my property suitable for a loft conversion but what are the costs involved in carrying out a loft conversion in Suffolk Ipswich in 2024.

Loft conversions continue to be one of the most popular home improvement projects in Ipswich Suffolk and across the UK. In 2024, the trend shows no sign of slowing down as homeowners seek to maximize their living space and add value to their properties. If you’re considering a loft conversion, understanding the costs involved is crucial for effective budgeting and planning. This blog post will break down the key factors influencing loft conversion costs in Suffolk in 2024.

Understanding the Basics

A loft conversion typically transforms an unused attic space into a functional room, such as a bedroom, office, or playroom. The cost of a loft conversion can vary significantly based on several factors including the type of conversion, the size of the loft, structural requirements, and your specific design preferences all of which we can help you with.

Costs of loft conversions

Loft conversion cost can vary wildly because each house is different and as you are changing the structure of the roof this will need to be supported with steels or timbers to transfer the weight down to the existing foundations for which you will need drawings and structural engineers report.

When we get asked about costs it is hard to tell without a full survey and structural engineers report but we can go by averages which are in the table below which is taken from rated people, costs for loft conversions have risen due to labour costs and material costs.

Types of Loft Conversions

1. **Dormer Loft Conversion**
– **Description**: Adds a box-like structure to the existing roof, providing additional headroom and floor space.
– **Cost**: £55,500 to £118,400
– **Best for**: Homes with limited existing loft space or low headroom.

2. **Velux Loft Conversion**
– **Description**: Involves installing Velux windows into the existing roof without altering its structure.
– **Cost**: £40,000 to £75,000
– **Best for**: Properties with ample headroom and those seeking a cost-effective option.

3. **Hip-to-Gable Loft Conversion**
– **Description**: Extends the sloping side of the roof to create a vertical wall, increasing internal space.
– **Cost**: £60,350 to £134,000
– **Best for**: Semi-detached or detached houses with a hipped roof.

4. **Mansard Loft Conversion**
– **Description**: Involves altering the entire roof structure to create a nearly vertical wall and flat roof.
– **Cost**: £40,000 to £100,000
– **Best for**: Maximizing space in terraced houses or for a more traditional look.

4. **Bungalow Loft Conversion**
– **Description**: Involves altering the entire roof structure to create a nearly vertical wall and flat roof.
– **Cost**: £50,000 to £150,000
– **Best for**: Maximizing space in bungalows or for a more stylish look.

Factors Influencing Costs

1. **Structural Integrity**
– As each house is different ensuring the existing structure can support the additional weight is crucial. Reinforcement may be needed, increasing costs.

2. **Design and Customization**
– Bespoke designs, high-end finishes, and custom fittings will drive up costs compared to standard options.

3. **Planning Permissions and Regulations**
– While many loft conversions fall under permitted development rights, some may require planning permission. Compliance with building regulations is mandatory and might add to the cost.

4. **Utilities and Insulation**
– Installing plumbing, electrics, and proper insulation can add to the overall expense but are essential for creating a comfortable living space.

5. **Location and Accessibility**
– Costs can vary based on your specific location within Suffolk and the ease of access to your property. Properties in remote areas or with difficult access may incur higher labor and transportation costs.

Additional Costs to Consider

1. **Professional Fees**
– Architect and surveyor fees can range from £1,000 to £3,000 depending on the complexity of the project.

2. **Interior Finishes**
– Flooring, plastering, decorating, and furnishing costs can add another £5,000 to £10,000.

3. **Contingency Fund**
– It’s wise to allocate an additional 10-15% of your budget for unexpected expenses.

Getting the Best Value

To ensure you get the best value for your money speak to CLC first because we are approached may times after the client has had the drawings done by a draughtsman that has to had a lot of experience in loft conversions and this can have knock on effect with the structural engineer CLC can provide a full design and structural calculation service.

-Get Multiple Quotes**: Compare quotes from at least three reputable builders.

-Check Credentials**: Ensure your chosen builder is experienced in loft conversions and has good reviews.-

-Plan Thoroughly**: Detailed planning can help avoid costly changes down the line.

-Consider Energy Efficiency**: Invest in good insulation and energy-efficient windows to save on future heating costs.

You can also see the detailed quotes we provide with every part of your build costed properly an example of one off our quotes is below.

Conclusion

A loft conversion can be a fantastic investment, adding both space and value to your Suffolk home. In 2024, understanding the types of loft conversions available and the factors that influence their costs will help you make informed decisions and ensure your project is a success. Whether you opt for a simple Velux conversion or a more complex Mansard transformation, thorough planning and budgeting are key to achieving your dream loft space.

Loft storage solutions

Loft ladders and loft boarding in Ipswich Suffolk

May 14, 2024 Greg Nelson

We have been converting lofts and carrying out building work in Ipswich for over thirty years mostly loft conversions, extensions and garage conversions but we also get asked a lot about loft boarding and loft ladders so I thought I would put up a little blog post about the subject.

With space at a premium and storage companies costing an arm and a leg are you making the most of the space in your home? If you haven’t considered utilizing your loft, you could be missing out on valuable storage or even an additional living area. Storage in Ipswich, Suffolk, where space is often at a premium, installing loft ladders and boarding can be a game-changer. Let’s delve into why investing in loft storage solutions and how they could transform your living space.

Maximizing Space Efficiency

Lofts often remain unused or underutilized, serving as mere repositories for forgotten belongings. With loft ladders and boarding, however, you can transform this wasted space into a functional area. By installing a sturdy ladder and boarding the floor, you gain easy access to your loft, enabling you to store seasonal items, luggage, or any other belongings that clutter your living spaces and with our loft boarding packages they are also affordable.

Convenient Storage Solutions

Imagine having a designated space to store items that you only need occasionally, such as holiday decorations or out-of-season clothing. Loft boarding provides a stable surface to organize and store your possessions safely. No more rummaging through cramped closets or overcrowded garages—your belongings will be easily accessible yet neatly tucked away and we can also provide extra insulation when we are doing it improving the U-values of your home therefore saving money.

If you want a proper loft conversion

Beyond storage we can convert your loft into an amazing space with roof windows being fitted for as little as £600 with your loft having the potential to become so much more. With proper loft boarding and insulation, it can be transformed into a cozy retreat, a home office, or even an extra bedroom. Whether you’re craving a quiet sanctuary or need a functional workspace, your loft can be customised to suit your needs, adding versatility and value to your home Complete loft conversions can help.

Increasing Property Value

Investing in loft ladders and boarding not only enhances your quality of life but also boosts the resale value of your property. Potential buyers are drawn to homes that make efficient use of space, and a well-appointed loft can be a compelling selling point. By maximizing your loft’s potential, you’re investing in the future value of your home and making life more simple with all of your belongings safely stored.

Professional Installation in Ipswich, Suffolk

When it comes to installing loft ladders and boarding, it’s essential to rely on professionals who understand the unique needs of your home. In Ipswich, Suffolk, there are reputable companies specializing in loft solutions that can assess your space and provide tailored recommendations.

Don’t let valuable space go to waste—unlock the potential of your loft with quality loft ladders and loft boarding. Whether you’re seeking additional storage or dreaming of a new living area, investing in loft solutions is a practical and rewarding choice for homeowners in Ipswich, Suffolk. Contact a complete loft conversions provider today and take the first step toward maximizing your home’s space and functionality.

Loft conversions in Suffolk

DIY nightmares: Loft conversions highlighted as the worst offenders

February 21, 2024 Greg Nelson

Many homeowners like to try their hand at DIY from time to time, but some clients can overreach their skillset when attempting renovations like loft conversions . From our first hand experience we have seen some nightmare loft conversions gone wrong that we have had to correct.

If not done properly however, Do It Yourself can cause lasting and expensive damage to a property, leaving the owner wishing they’d called in a professional company to do the job instead, and paying out even more to get it fixed Complete loft conversions guarantee none of the following will happen on your build.

1. Loft conversion

Can costs up to £35,000 to fix, attempted by 5% of homeowners

Greg Nelson form CLC said : “No work should be done on a loft conversion without confirming that safety regulations are in place and that the room will be legal, as this can waste a huge amount of time and money and result in you having to have the whole thing redone. You may also cause more damage than good, especially if you damage the roof or put a foot through the rafters.”

Assess the Situation: Take stock of the problems you’re facing. Is it related to structural integrity, electrical wiring, plumbing, or something else? Understanding the scope of the issues is the first step in finding solutions.

2. Knocking down a wall/part of a wall

Costs up to £25,000 to fix, attempted by 10% of homeowners

Greg Nelson from CLC said : “If you knock down a wall and don’t know exactly what you’re doing, you run the risk of your property suffering from subsidence. If you try to knock through a supporting wall, you also run the risk of your house collapsing, and losing everything. You should never knock a wall through without having it examined first to ensure there will be no other damage to the rest of the property.”

Consult with Professionals: Depending on the nature of the problems, you may need to consult with different professionals such as structural engineers, architects, builders, plumbers, and electricians. They can help diagnose the issues and propose solutions.

3. Replacing a kitchen

Costs up to £15,000 to fix, attempted by 8% of homeowners

Greg Nelson from CLC said :“Installing a new kitchen can cost around £5,000 depending on the size and materials used. If you take this into your own hands and damage the worktops, cabinets, and walls while doing so, you may need to replace these. Aside from added costs for materials, you’ll also need to factor in the labour costs, which could as much as double the price of your new kitchen.”

Review Building Regulations and Planning Permission: Ensure that your loft conversion complies with building regulations and planning permission requirements. If the problems stem from non-compliance, you may need to make modifications to bring the conversion up to standard.

4. Replacing a bathroom

Costs up to £10,000 to fix, attempted by 7% of homeowners

Greg Nelson from CLC said : “This can cost you anywhere between £3,000-£10,000 depending on the damage that you do. If you have to replace the materials that you bought for the job or cause damage to the plumbing and electrics in the bathroom, this will drive the cost up.”

Jonathan Larkin, 26 from Norwich, said: “We tried fitting a new bathroom a year or so ago, and thought we’d done a good job. That was until we realised that the sealant we had borrowed from my dad had been out of date and we had leaks all over the bathroom wherever we used it.”

5. Installing cabinets

Costs up to £4,000 to fix, attempted by 18% of homeowners

Greg Nelson from CLC said : “You may cause damage to both the cabinet and the wall that you’re attaching it to, meaning you will need to replace the cabinet, fix the wall, and then pay labour costs for this to be refitted. Depending on the amount of cabinets, materials used and size of them, this can cost you around £4,000.”

6. Laying floors

Costs up to £3,500 to fix, attempted by 18% of homeowners

Greg Nelson from CLC said :“This will depend on the size of the room and the material that you’ve chosen for the flooring. If you lay incorrectly you can damage the material, meaning you must pay to replace it. To do this for the whole floor, this can cost you anything from £1,500-£3,500.”

Prioritize Safety: If there are safety concerns such as structural instability or electrical hazards, address them immediately. Safety should always be the top priority.

7. Installing a light fixture

Costs up to £3,000 to fix, attempted by 28% of homeowners

Greg Nelson from CLC said : “Replacing bad electrics could just be the cost of replacing the fitting, but it could also involve having to fix the wiring completely. Electrical work can also be dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing and is a health risk. If this goes dramatically wrong, rewiring a 2-bed house can cost around £3,000 and 5-8 days”

Take Preventive Measures: Once the issues are resolved, take preventive measures to avoid similar problems in the future. This may involve regular maintenance, periodic inspections, and hiring reputable professionals for any future renovations or construction projects.

8. Running power into an adjacent structure

Costs up to £3,000 to fix, attempted by 11% of homeowners

Greg Nelson from CLC said “If you cause damage to the wiring in your house doing this, you could need the whole house rewired, which can cost around £3,000. It is also very dangerous if not done correctly and could result in a fire or explosion.”

Document the Issues: Keep thorough documentation of the problems you’re facing, including photographs, written descriptions, and any correspondence with contractors or authorities. This documentation may be valuable if you need to seek legal recourse or insurance claims.

9. Replacing a fuse box

Costs up to £3,000 to fix, attempted by 10% of homeowners

Greg Nelson from CLC said:“This is extremely dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing. You could cause damage to the wiring in your house, which can cost over £3000 to fix, along with the risk of fire or explosion. Any work with electricity should only be carried out by a professional.”

Obtain Multiple Quotes: If you need to hire professionals to fix the issues, obtain multiple quotes to ensure you’re getting a fair price. Be wary of significantly low quotes, as they may indicate subpar workmanship or the use of inferior materials.

10. Installing a shower

Costs up to £3,000 to fix, attempted by 8% of homeowners

Greg Nelson from CLC said“You may cause damage to the water pipe, the shower itself and the tiling in the bathroom, which can cost you up to £3,000 to fully repair and replace. If your shower is electric, it can also be very dangerous.”

Consider Legal Options: If the issues are the result of negligence or malpractice by contractors or builders, you may have legal recourse to seek compensation for damages. Consult with a legal expert specializing in construction law to explore your options.

Remember that addressing a loft conversion nightmare can be stressful and time-consuming, but with careful planning and the right professional assistance, you can mitigate the issues and turn your nightmare into a success story.

If you wish for a no obligation quote to get your loft conversion done right first time Complete Loft Conversions are your first port of call for loft conversions timber framed extensions and garage conversions in the Ipswich Suffolk area

Loft conversion methods Loft conversions adding value to your home

Transforming a Suffolk Home: A Stunning Flat Dormer Conversion in Ipswich by Complete Loft Conversions

October 16, 2023 Greg Nelson

Transforming a Suffolk Home: A Stunning Flat Dormer Conversion in Ipswich by Complete Loft Conversions

Introduction:

Suffolk’s picturesque landscapes and historic architecture make it a charming place to call home. However, many homeowners in the region face the common challenge of needing more space while keeping budget on track In this blog post, we’ll explore a remarkable flat dormer conversion project carried out by Complete Loft Conversions in Ipswich, Suffolk. This transformation not only added valuable living space but also maintained the character of the home, serving as an inspiration for homeowners seeking a similar solution.

The Challenge:

The homeowners in Ipswich, Suffolk, had a beautiful council built home with potential hidden within its roof space. They desired extra space but were reluctant to compromise the charm of their home. They reached out to Complete Loft Conversions, a renowned loft conversion specialist, to explore their options.

The Solution:

Complete Loft Conversions designed and executed a flat dormer conversion that perfectly blended modern living with traditional aesthetics. Here’s a breakdown of how they achieved this stunning transformation:

1. **Initial Consultation and Design:** The project began with an in-depth consultation to understand the homeowners’ requirements and assess the property’s suitability for a loft conversion. The design process was meticulous, considering the architectural nuances and local regulations in Ipswich, Suffolk.

2. **Preservation of Architectural Character:** One of the most important aspects of this project was preserving the property’s historical character. To achieve this, the design incorporated elements such as matching exterior materials and maintaining the original roofline as closely as possible. The dormer extension seamlessly blended with the existing structure.

3. **Spacious Living Area:** The flat dormer conversion created a spacious living area with an abundance of natural light. Large windows and carefully positioned skylights were installed to ensure the room felt bright and inviting.

4. **High-Quality Finishes:** The homeowners opted for high-quality finishes that complemented the traditional elements of the property. Wood flooring, elegant moldings, and period-style fixtures and fittings were used to maintain the home’s unique charm.

5. **Energy Efficiency:** To ensure the space was energy-efficient, Complete Loft Conversions used modern insulation techniques and energy-efficient windows. This not only reduced the home’s environmental impact but also lowered utility bills for the homeowners.

6. **Bespoke Features:** Custom-built storage solutions and furniture were added to maximize the utility of the space. This allowed the homeowners to make the most of the new room for their specific needs.

Conclusion:

The flat dormer conversion in Ipswich, Suffolk, carried out by Complete Loft Conversions, is a shining example of how to add modern living space to a historic home while maintaining its character. The result was a beautiful room that not only enhanced the homeowners’ quality of life but also added significant value to their property. This project is a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the team at Complete Loft Conversions, showcasing their ability to blend contemporary design with historical preservation seamlessly. If you’re looking to expand your living space without compromising your home’s character, this project provides excellent inspiration and proof that it can be done with the right professionals.

Carpenters in Ipswich Suffolk

Ipswich Carpentry Contractors

September 16, 2022 Greg Nelson

ICC carry out large and small carpentry contracts in and around the Ipswich Suffolk area, we are established carpenters and we carry out a number of construction projects which range from Oak flooring to hand cut Oak roofs.

We have been in construction for over 30 years and have carried out many projects from decking on domestic works to contact carpentry hanging three hundred doors.

The following list is the works we undertake both commercial and domestic.

Oak flooring
Oak trusses and beams
Hand cut roofs
Loft conversions
Trussed roofs
Timber framing
Shop fitting
Suspend ceilings
Door fitting
Stairs fitting
Window fitting
UPVC fitting and installation
Steel beams installation

We also carry out a many other types of construction and can supply labour only carpenters on request.

Ipswich carpentry contractors was founded in 2011 by Gregory Nelson to help homeowners and commercial client’s find carpenters locally ICC have been working in partnership with some of the largest builders in Ipswich Suffolk but also find time to carry out smaller contracts and we diversify our client base so we carry out all types of construction work and supply carpenters in Ipswich.

It’s this unique approach dealing with both domestic and larger contracts saw us meet many new clients and gave us a variety of work not usually seen by standard carpentry contractor’s.

Our new website ensures clients get to see a lot of our work before we get to site and contact us for a no obligation quote, allowing clients to pick the right time to have the works carried out.

If you are looking for quality local carpenters then look no further than Ipswich Carpentry Contractors for all your domestic and commercial carpentry goodness.

If you are looking for carpenters and joiners who are fully qualified CSCS card holders who are punctual and reliable, visit carpenters-in-ipswich.co.uk for more information.

Renewable energy

Can Solar Panels power my whole house?

August 13, 2022 Greg Nelson

Here at Green Energy Ipswich we believe that Solar panels are a great option for customers who want save on energy costs and be less reliant on high energy prices the question still stands can solar power negate the option of pulling power from the grid?

The short answer is yes In theory, they can but in a real world scenario it will be extremely difficult for the average homeowner to install enough solar panels to power their entire home even if you have a large array. There is a but they can generate enough energy to power household appliances such as your dishwasher, TV and fridge-freezer if you have the correct installation and battery storage . Many customers want to see if they can go off grid to lower their energy bills and help the enviroment but that is not the whole solution it many be easier to adjust your energy needs alongside the installation of renewables.

In this post, we will dig down into how to power your home with solar power and make effiecncy savings and how solar panels can help you become more self-sufficient with renewable energy source.

“Off the grid” what does this mean?

You often hear the term ‘off-the-grid’ means not using public utility companies like water, electric and gas this is often use by people who live in isolated areas, but you can also benefit form going off grid as most clients want to reduce there dependence of fossil fuels and want to help the environment. Most solar panel installs are connected to the grid as of writing it’s uncommon to install off-grid solar systems.

Green power has many advantages for those who want to reduce their reliance on utility companies if you have your own green power system then you will also be reducing your carbon footprint, but how much power do yo need to generate from solar panels and can you be self sufficient once they are installed.

Solar panels how much energy can they produce?

Current solar panel technology won’t allow for you to run your whole house entirely of grid but doesn’t mean they aren’t a good idea for a client looking to reduce their energy bills.

The amount of electricity a solar panel produces depends on two main factors:

How much sunlight the panels are exposed to each day this is why Green Energy Ipswich have the most competent installers and technicians to suggest the correct angle and area to situate the panels to generate maximum efficiency from the sunlight.
The efficiency rating of the panel and its various components. This rating is usually between 15 and 20%; the more modern and more expensive the panel, the better the efficiency typically is. The more efficient the panel, the more energy it can generate from the same amount of sunlight.

Solar panels have an average output of anywhere between 250-400W the higher quality the panel the more electricity it will produce and the the higher the wattage, it will product more wattage under the same conditions. Client’s who get solar panels installed in the UK generally get a 3-4kW system this is generally made up of an array of 8-12 Solar panels. You can get as much as 2,450 and 3,000 KWH per year this of course depends on sunlight positioning and the quality of the panels and the peripherals.

How much power do I need ?

The amount of energy that a household uses depends on many things.

How many people live in the house
How much each person uses
How well the house is insulated
If the house is run on electricity or gas or both

Normally the majority of solar power is produced around midday the most power is often consumed often has a peak at the start of the day due to things like making breakfast, having showers and using hairdryers consumption then peaks again at night when the heating goes on oven and other appliances are used.

Average homes use somewhere around 2,900 kWh of electricity per year according to Ofgem, so would your new solar panel system cover the annual household electricity consumption

It used to be that your energy consumption would need to match your production form your panels but now with battery storage and the use of inverters to transfer the current to 240V you can sell any unused electricity when it is transferred back to the grid to be used elsewhere but be aware won’t be compensated for this unless you have a SEG tariff.

To give yourself a better understanding Green Energy Ipswich will be posting many more articles in our blog and news pages so you can get the most out of your solar PV system so you van have a better balance of directly used solar power and lower your imported electricity.

Solar power so how much does it take to run a home?

Solar may not be able to get you off the grid completely but combined with battery storage you can still make a huge dent in your grid consumption.Home appliances can be run on solar directly and using batteries so saving energy is still worth while.There are many devices in your home that could be powered by solar panels. According to the Centre for Sustainable Energy:

Below are average figures for energy consumption.

Kettles use 163 kWh/year
Toasters use 115 kWh/year
Hairdryers use 172 kWh/year
Computer Screen uses 330 kWh/year
Washing Machines use 255 kWh/year
LCD TV’s use 175 kWh/year
Dishwashers use 657 kWh/year

Depending on your solar panel system, you could charge batteries and use the power later or if you use more electricity than you generate you would have to buy from the grid.

Making the most of solar panels!

Installing green energy solution like solar panels will same you money after the initial investment they might not be able to power eveyrthing in your home but with the advancement of battery storage you can certain improve your impact on the environment.

Most households use a significant portion of their electricity in the evening because Solar panels do not work at night but with the use of a battery, electricity generated during the day can be saved for your nightly use and you could increase your grid independence by 50% depending on the system of batteries and solar panels you install.

Going of grid isn’t easy but you may be able to reduce you bills

Supplement your panels with a wind generator
Reducing your energy needs. Switching to less power-hungry appliances, getting rid of appliances you don’t need, and generally living a less tech-heavy lifestyle will mean you need less energy, to begin with.
Charging battery packs during the day and heating water during the day when your energy is generated by solar

If you want more information how Green energy Ipswich can power your home take a look at our new updated Green energy website.

Bungalow loft conversion

June 2, 2022 Greg Nelson

Haven’t posted for a while as been very busy with work but let’s have a run through what’s been going on at this conversion.

So let’s have a look at the conversion in stages below we can see the existing boards removed and electrics being moved to make way for the new joists.