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FAQs

Get answers to the frequently asked questions we receive about the ecoTrus System

General Questions

What is ecoTrus?

ecoTrus is a loft truss removal universal system that makes loft conversions easy.
Using our patented system you can convert a trussed loft structure to an open space in just 1 day.

Do you work in my area?
We work all across the mainland UK with plans to expand to the rest of the British Isles. You can find your local ecoTrus accredited installer here .
What about building regulations?

Building control certificates ensure all building works carried out meet current building codes and regulation requirements.

Our Building Control Service ensures that buildings are designed and constructed in accordance with the Building Regulations and associated legislation.

Do you offer finance?
We are currently looking at brokers to aid with finance options.
What is the payment schedule?
  • Initial Deposit – £3,000 Inc. VAT, This will secure your steel delivery date – do you have a date in mind?
  • Payment 2: Design stage – 1/3 of the total cost (minus the initial deposit), this is due upon issue of your first design drawing.
  • Payment 3: Fabrication stage – 1/3 of the total, this is due upon sign off on the final designs and for ecoTrus to proceed with the fabrication of the steel.
  • Payment 4: Delivery stage – 1/3 of the total, this is due once the system has been unloaded and checked by our technical officer.
Can I do the install myself?
We do offer a ‘Supply only’ option, this is for the steel structure and fixings only. You can self-install as a one off or you can register to become an approved installed for ecoTrus – Become a Partner

Getting Started

How long is the build up?

This will depend on the type of installation uou choose, but as a general guide:

  • 2-4 months on average for a supply and install by ecoTrus, but this varies depending on availability, complexity and material availability
  • 1-3 months on average for supply only, but this varies depending on availability, complexity and material availability
How do I know what type of roof/loft I have?

If your property was built around or after the 1970’s you will likely have a ‘trussed loft’, these are thin V shaped beams.

If your property was built before the 1970’s you may have either a ‘cut roof’ or ‘purlins’

  • A cut roof is similar to a trussed loft, these are thin V shaped beams but are spaced further apart, whereas the rafters and joists are set closer together.
  • Purlins are thick beams that run length ways in your loft.
How do I measure my loft?
  • For loft height measure from the bottom of the floor joists to the apex of the roof.
  • For the loft size measure from the floor below your loft, run a tape measure from the front wall to back wall, for width do the same from side wall to side wall, side walls are often referred to as gables or party walls, if your property has a front facing gable switch the measurements.
Do I need to get planning permission?
Generally, for a loft conversion if the change is at the rear of your property it is not required unless you live in a conservation area, if you are unsure we recommended you enquire with your local council to confirm what is covered under permitted development.
What is building control?
A building control body is an organisation authorised to control building work that is subject to the Building Regulations in England and Wales similar systems are provided in Northern Ireland, and in Scotland where the term ‘building standards’ is used.
What else needs to be arranged outside of the ecoTrus system?
  • Scaffolding
  • Skip Hire
  • Electrical & Plumbing (First & Second fix)
  • Roofing
  • Cladding
  • Glazing
  • Rafter insulation
  • Stud walls (if required)
  • Staircase
  • Plasterboard & Skim
  • Decoration

Technical Questions

What type of conversions do you offer?
What does duo-pitch loft conversion mean?
This is a conversion without changing the shape of your existing roof, this can also include truss removal and is often referred to as a Velux conversion.
What is a hip roof?
A roof with three or more slopes that meet at the top ridge
What is a gable end?
A gable end is a roof with two slopes that meet at a central ridge and a flat side (two flat sides if detached).
What is a dormer?
A box shape added to your roof that provides extended walking space while maintaining the existing square meterage
Do you do L-shaped dormers?
L-shaped Dormers are compatible with the ecoTrus system.
Why is there a minimum head height?
Due to building regulations we require that you have a minimum starting head height of 2.5 meters for a dormer conversion or 2.7 meters for a duo-pitch conversion to pass building control as you will lose some height between structure, insulation build up and plasterboard.
What options are available if I don’t meet the minimum head height requirements?
  • Raise the ridge of your roof (if permitted)
  • Lower the ceilings
  • Investigate storage options – More Info
Do I need a party wall agreement?
Because we use the wall plates to support our system there is a high probability you will not require a party wall agreement.

Start today with an online quote

  • COMPLETE OUR QUOTE FORM AND SUBMIT YOUR PROJECT DETAILS ONLINE
  • OUR SURVEY TEAM WILL EVALUATE YOUR PROJECT AND PROVIDE AN ESTIMATED COST AND INSTALLATION DATE
  • WANT TO PROCEED? – BOOK YOUR CONSULTATION WITH ONE OF OUR TECH OFFICERS TO CONFIRM ALL THE DETAILS