What kind of work do you take on?
Larger projects: loft conversions, timber frame builds and roofs, full renovations and the carpentry on new builds. We are not set up for small repairs or odd jobs, and a local handyman will usually be a better fit for those.
Is my loft suitable for a conversion?
Most are. The main thing is head height: as a rough guide you want around 2.2 metres from the top of the ceiling joists to the underside of the ridge. We also look at the roof structure, where the stairs can go and how the new floor will be supported.
Do I need planning permission for a loft conversion?
Often not. Many loft conversions fall under permitted development, but it depends on the house, the area and the size of any dormer, so it should be checked first. Building Regulations approval is always needed.
What does a loft conversion involve?
A new structural floor, sometimes with steel beams, a staircase, insulation, stud walls, roof windows or a dormer, then boarding, plastering, doors, skirting and a balustrade. We take it through to ready for decorating.
What is a stick-built timber frame?
The frame is cut and built on site rather than delivered as factory panels. It suits one-off houses, extensions and awkward plots, and it lets changes be made as the build goes on.
Do you work for developers?
Yes. We have carried out the complete carpentry on new homes for a local developer, including the roof, soffits and fascias, cladding and second fix.
Can a trussed roof be converted?
Yes. The webs that cross the loft have to be replaced with new structure, usually steel beams and new floor joists, so it takes more design work than an older rafter-and-purlin roof, but it is done all the time.
Where do you work?
We are based in St Columb and cover Cornwall.
How do I get a price?
Call, WhatsApp or send the form with what you have in mind. Drawings help if you have them. We will come out and look at the job before pricing it.
Do loft conversions need Building Regulations approval?
Yes, always. It covers the new floor structure, stairs, fire safety, insulation and electrics, and you get a completion certificate at the end.
Will I need fire doors for a loft conversion?
Usually. When a two-storey house gains a third floor, the stairway has to be a protected escape route, which normally means fire doors to the rooms off it and linked, mains-wired smoke alarms on every floor.
Do you fit roof windows and dormers?
Yes. Roof windows and dormer windows are part of the loft conversions and roofs we build.
Do you fit kitchens?
Yes, as part of a renovation or refurbishment. A recent flat refurbishment in Newquay included a new kitchen supplied and fitted.
Do you do cladding?
Yes. We fit timber and Cedral cladding, along with soffits and fascias, on new builds, extensions and garage conversions.
Can you work from an architect's drawings?
Yes. Drawings and structural calculations make it possible to price a job properly, so send them if you have them.
Got a loft, a build or a renovation in mind?
Tell us about the project. Drawings and photos help. We will come out, look at it properly and give you a price.