oft boarding is the process of installing a raised floor in your loft, which provides extra space for storage or living. It’s a popular solution for homeowners who are struggling to find enough storage space in their homes or who want to create an extra room in their house. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of loft boarding, the process involved, and some of the key considerations you need to keep in mind before embarking on this project.
Benefits of Loft Boarding
There are several benefits to loft boarding, including:
Increased Storage Space
One of the most significant benefits of loft boarding is that it provides additional storage space in your home. If you’re struggling to find space to store your possessions, loft boarding can be a cost-effective and straightforward solution.
Energy Efficiency
Loft boarding can also help to improve the energy efficiency of your home. By insulating the loft and laying a raised floor, you can reduce heat loss through the roof and prevent cold air from entering your home. This can lead to lower energy bills and a more comfortable living environment.
Increased Property Value
Loft boarding can also add value to your property. If you’re looking to sell your home in the future, having a fully boarded loft can make your property more attractive to potential buyers. A loft conversion can also add additional living space to your home, which can be a significant selling point.
Process Involved in Loft Boarding
The process involved in loft boarding typically involves the following steps:
Assessment
The first step is to assess your loft to determine whether it’s suitable for boarding. Your loft must have enough headroom, be free from damp and mold, and have adequate structural support to bear the weight of a raised floor.
Insulation
Once you’ve determined that your loft is suitable for boarding, the next step is to insulate the space. This involves laying insulation material between the joists to prevent heat loss through the roof.
Boarding
After insulation, the next step is to lay the raised floor. This involves laying boards over the joists to create a level surface for storage or living space. There are several types of loft boards available, including chipboard, tongue and groove, and plywood.
Access
Finally, you’ll need to install a suitable access point to your loft. This could be a loft ladder or a hatch with a drop-down ladder.
Key Considerations
Before embarking on a loft boarding project, there are several key considerations you need to keep in mind:
Building Regulations
When undertaking any building work, it’s essential to ensure that you comply with building regulations. Loft boarding is no exception, and you should seek professional advice to ensure that your project meets all relevant regulations.
Structural Integrity
Your loft must have adequate structural support to bear the weight of a raised floor. Before starting your project, you should seek advice from a structural engineer or building surveyor to ensure that your loft is suitable for boarding.
Access
Access to your loft is an essential consideration when boarding your loft. You’ll need to ensure that you have a suitable access point and that it’s safe and easy to use.
Insulation
Insulating your loft is a vital part of loft boarding. Not only does it help to improve energy efficiency, but it’s also a legal requirement in most cases. You should seek advice on the appropriate insulation material and thickness for your loft.
Cost
The cost of loft boarding will depend on several factors, including the size and condition of your loft, the type of boarding you choose, and any additional work required, such as insulation or access. You should seek several quotes from reputable tradespeople to ensure that you get a fair price for your project.