- Design and paperwork typically take longer than most homeowners expect.
- Construction runs in an ordered sequence — first fix, insulation, plastering, second fix, finishes.
- Timelines vary by scope. We do not promise a fixed duration until scope is agreed.
Before construction — the stages that matter most
1. Home survey
A structured visit to measure headroom, roof structure, service positions and stair options. It is the point where most of the important design decisions become possible.
2. Design and sketch layout
A room layout, stair position and dormer or rooflight strategy emerge from the survey. This is where most of the trade-offs are decided — before any structural drawings are commissioned.
3. Planning assessment
The project is assessed against exempted development conditions or, where necessary, prepared for a planning application. Where borderline, a Section 5 declaration is considered.
4. Structural engineering
A structural engineer sizes the beams, floor joists and any roof modifications. Their drawings and calculations become part of the construction documentation.
5. Quotation and contract
A written, itemised quotation is issued against the agreed design. Once accepted, a short contract or letter of appointment sets out scope, programme, payment stages and variation procedure.
On site — the construction sequence
6. Set-up and protection
Scaffolding is erected, dust protection is installed around the existing home, and the existing hatch area is prepared. Skip and site logistics are agreed.
7. Structural works
New floor joists or steels are installed. Roof modifications — cut-truss adjustments, new beams, dormer openings — are completed. The roof envelope is made weathertight quickly after any opening.
8. Stairs and openings
The new stair opening is formed on the storey below, the stair is set out and any headroom rooflight above the stair is fitted. This is one of the more disruptive stages for occupants.
9. First fix
Electrical, plumbing and heating carcassing are installed before insulation and plasterboard. Fire alarms are wired in. This is the moment where earlier design decisions pay off — everything is easier before boards go on.
10. Insulation and airtightness
Insulation is fitted between and under rafters as specified, with a vapour control layer and airtightness detailing. This stage is easily rushed and easily worth taking time over.
11. Plasterboard and plastering
Ceilings and walls are boarded, taped and skimmed. Fire detailing at the stair is completed.
12. Second fix
Sockets, switches, lights, sanitaryware, doors and ironmongery are installed. Skirtings and architraves are fitted.
13. Finishes
Tiling, wardrobes, joinery, floor coverings and painting. The character of the room begins to emerge.
14. Snagging
A walk-through with the contractor identifies any items to adjust before handover.
15. Handover and documentation
Certificate of Compliance, structural documentation, product warranties and operating instructions are handed over. The stair, the alarms and the ventilation system are demonstrated.
What this means for your project
The sequence above is a template — every project varies. A good programme is agreed at pre-start with realistic durations for each stage, and a short weekly conversation is the simplest way to keep the project honest.
What this means for your project
Every home is different. Use this guidance to ask the right questions and to shape your brief — but confirm what applies to your specific property with a home survey and appropriate professional input.
Frequently asked questions
- How long does a typical attic conversion take on site?
- It varies with scope. A standard conversion is faster than a dormer; a dormer with an en-suite is slower again. We give an indicative duration only after the survey and design are complete, and we do not promise fixed durations.
- Do I need to move out?
- Most homeowners stay in place. There is unavoidable noise and dust, and the top of the existing stairs is a work zone at certain stages. We agree access windows and dust protection at pre-start.
- What happens if bad weather delays the roof opening?
- Programme has weather contingency built in. Where prolonged weather causes a real delay, we agree a revised sequence with you rather than proceeding in unsafe conditions.
- When can I choose finishes?
- Finishes are ideally chosen before first fix, so that electrics, joinery and tiling can be set out to suit. A short selection schedule is agreed at the start of the project.
Start with a quick check of your attic.
Answer a few simple questions about your home and what you would like to create. We’ll give you an early indication of which conversion route may be worth exploring. A home survey is still required before suitability can be confirmed.
Or call +353 85 150 0853