Loft Conversion Plumbing: What You Need to Know
- Catherine Allen
- Apr 16
- 2 min read
When planning your loft conversion it’s easy to get caught up in design decisions but behind every beautiful space is a lot of smart planning. One crucial consideration is loft conversion plumbing. Whether you're adding an en-suite bathroom or upgrading the heating system, the plumbing design can have a big impact on how smoothly your project runs.
Led by Emmet, our experienced team at The Loft Build Company ensures plumbing is never an afterthought. Here’s what you need to know.
Early Planning Is Key
Plumbing should be considered right at the start of the design phase. Knowing the location of your existing water supply, soil stack (waste pipe) and hot water cylinder will influence where you can place bathrooms, sinks and showers upstairs. Our team will map out the most efficient and cost-effective plumbing routes, reducing the need for major disruption or expensive pipework.
Do You Need to Move the Water Cylinder?
In many homes the existing hot water cylinder may be located in the loft, right where your new bedroom or bathroom will be. In this case you’ve got a couple of options:
Relocate the cylinder: If you're keeping a traditional hot water system the cylinder may be moved to a cupboard on the first floor.
Upgrade to a combi boiler: This modernises your system and frees up space entirely. Since combi boilers heat water on demand there’s no need for a separate cylinder or cold-water storage tank.
We’ll help you weigh up the cost, practicality and long-term benefits of each choice based on your home’s setup and your future needs.
Plumbing for Bathrooms and En-Suites
Adding a bathroom to your loft can add significant value to your home but it requires careful plumbing design. Things we take into account include:
Water pressure: Especially important for showers, we may recommend a booster pump or pressure-balancing solutions.
Waste pipe positioning: Waste water must run downhill so the location of your soil pipe is key. We’ll identify if you can connect to the existing one or need a new run.
Ventilation: Extractor fans are a must in bathrooms to prevent damp and condensation build-up.
Heating in the Loft
Radiators are the most common option and can be plumbed into your existing system. However, many clients opt for underfloor heating for a cleaner finish and more even warmth. We'll discuss both options and help you choose the right one for your layout and lifestyle.
The Loft Build Company Way
We know how overwhelming a loft project can feel. That’s why our team handles every aspect of plumbing from the initial survey and planning through to certified installation. Our trusted plumbers work closely with the design and construction teams to deliver a seamless build and finish. Emmet and the team have managed countless plumbing installations in loft conversions across London and Surrey so you’re in expert hands.
Want to Learn More?
If you’re planning a conversion and want to know what’s possible in your home just get in touch for a chat. You can also explore different loft types and see real examples of our work on our website. Let us take care of the pipes while you focus on the fun part!
0208 129 0976
