Loft boarding is a popular home improvement project that involves laying a wooden floor over the joists in your loft space. It is a great way to create additional storage space, or even a usable room, without having to build an extension or convert your loft.
In this article, we will provide a complete guide to loft boarding, including the benefits, considerations, and installation process.
Benefits of Loft Boarding
The main benefit of loft boarding is the additional storage space it creates. Most homes have unused loft space, which can be put to good use by laying a floor and using it for storage. This can be especially useful for households with limited storage space, such as flats or small houses.
Another benefit of loft boarding is that it can increase the value of your home. Potential buyers may be attracted to the extra storage space or the potential for a usable room, which could increase the selling price of your property.
Loft boarding can also help to improve the energy efficiency of your home. By insulating your loft and laying a floor, you can prevent heat from escaping through the roof, which can help to reduce your energy bills.
Considerations for Loft Boarding
Before you start your loft boarding project, there are several considerations you need to take into account:
Loft Insulation: Before you lay a floor in your loft, it is important to ensure that it is properly insulated. This will help to prevent heat from escaping through the roof and keep your home warm and energy-efficient.
Load-Bearing Capacity: You need to ensure that your loft can support the weight of the boards, as well as any items you plan to store on them. The load-bearing capacity of your loft will depend on the size of the joists and the spacing between them.
Access: You need to ensure that there is safe and easy access to your loft space, as you will need to carry boards and other materials up and down the stairs. If you do not have a suitable loft hatch, you may need to have one installed.
Electrical Wiring: If you plan to use your loft space for storage or as a room, you may need to install electrical wiring to provide lighting or power. This will require the services of a qualified electrician.
Building Regulations: Loft boarding is subject to building regulations, and you may need to obtain planning permission or a building regulations approval before starting your project. It is important to check with your local council before starting any work.
Installation Process
The installation process for loft boarding is relatively straightforward, but it can be time-consuming and requires some DIY skills. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Step 1: Clear your Loft Space
The first step is to clear your loft space of any debris, insulation or other items that may be in the way. You should also check for any damage to the roof or joists, as these will need to be repaired before you start.
Step 2: Measure your Loft Space
You need to measure your loft space to determine the number of boards you will need. Measure the length and width of the space, and then calculate the area by multiplying these two figures together.
Step 3: Install Loft Insulation
Before you start laying your floorboards, you need to install loft insulation. This will help to prevent heat from escaping through the roof and keep your home warm and energy-efficient. You can either use insulation rolls or boards, depending on your preference.
Step 4: Lay the Floorboards
Once the insulation is installed, you can start laying the floorboards. Start by laying the first board along one of the walls, and then work your way across the loft space. Use screws to secure the boards to the joists, and make