Day 3: Removal of external roof tiles

I went to my flat this evening to see what the builders have done today.

I didn’t see much difference from yesterday, but it appears they have removed all external roof tiles. I saw new roof tiles sitting on the scaffolding and waiting to be installed.

They also had some other materials delivered – I don’t know what these are…

Day 2: Scaffolding & Steel Beam Installation

Last week scaffolders left after erecting the scaffolding only at the front of the property, so they had to come back today to sort out the rear part.

I was curious to find out how they would install scaffolding over the roof to the rear of the property without gaining access to the ground floor flat. When I turned up, however, the scaffolders had already completed it.

I still don’t know how they did it, but they somehow managed to erect the scaffolding at the rear of the property.

Before
After
After

I then left and went back to the flat around 4pm to see how the builders were doing. I was horrified to see the state of my flat. I was like, “OMG!”

Landing: Before
Landing: After
Landing: After
Living room: Before

Living room: After

Living room: After

Bedroom: Before
Bedroom: After
Bedroom: After

Basically, the builders installed steel beams with making a hole in the front roof slope. They were all covered in dust!

Day 1: Scaffolding

Scaffolders turned up today to put up scaffolding for my loft conversion. As my flat is on the first floor, I had to make arrangements with the owners of the ground floor flat to erect scaffolding. To be honest, it was a bit of a nightmare.

According to the lease terms, I had to give them four weeks’ notice to request access to their property. I had my builders booked in for October, so I contacted the guys downstairs at the beginning of September. However, I found that they were going on holiday for two weeks in early October so the earliest day for scaffolding would be 16th October.

My builders then suggested erecting scaffolding at the front beforehand and then at the back on 16th so they could start work without waiting until 16th. A few weeks later, the owners of the ground floor flat told me that they postponed their holiday so the scaffolding could be erected on 2nd October if the scaffolders could finish by 2pm.

Scaffolders are usually unreliable and might not even turn up on the day, so my builders decided to have scaffolders erect the scaffolding without access to the ground floor flat. I was unsure how they were going to do it…

Anyway, scaffolding was finally arranged for 5th October but at the last minute was postponed until 8th, so today was the day.

Scaffolders turned up at 11.30 am.

Scaffolders were really quick and after 90 mins my flat looked like this. They did a good job!

They are coming back next week to install scaffolding at the rear of the property. I still don’t know how they are going to do it but we’ll see…

Day 0: Taking Measurements on Site

Today marks the beginning of an exciting chapter in my home renovation journey – the commencement of site dimensions for my loft conversion project. As I eagerly await the transformation of my loft space into a functional and stylish living area, the importance of accurate measurements cannot be overstated.

In preparation for the upcoming construction, my builders arrived at my flat today to conduct live site dimensions. While architectural drawings provide a roadmap for the project, the precision required for beam sizes and structural elements necessitates on-site measurements. It’s a critical step that ensures the project progresses smoothly and according to plan.

With meticulous attention to detail, my builders carefully assessed the existing attic and first-floor plans. Despite initial concerns about ceiling height, we discovered that the space boasts over 2.5 meters of vertical clearance – a pleasant surprise that bodes well for the loft conversion’s feasibility and comfort.

Throughout the process, I couldn’t help but reflect on the importance of adhering to regulatory standards. The Planning Portal’s stipulation of a minimum 2.2-meter height for loft conversions serves as a reminder of the need to meet both aesthetic and practical requirements.

Here’s how my loft space is looking at the moment…

As the day drew to a close, I found myself filled with anticipation for the journey ahead. From the initial measurements to the final touches of interior design, every step of this project promises to be an adventure in craftsmanship and creativity.

Join me as I document the progress of my loft conversion project, sharing insights, challenges and triumphs along the way. Together, let’s witness the transformation of a mere blueprint into a space filled with endless possibilities.