Is it OK to board over loft insulation?

Placing loft boarding over insulation is an easy process and is essential if you want both storage and for your quilt insulation to work at its optimum performance. With the correct products, such as Loft Legs, this is easy and cost effective too.

Does boarding loft add value?

It most certainly does. The more storage space your home has to offer, the more value is added to you home. Loft boarding can increase the floor space in your home by up to 50% and using a fitted loft ladder, will offer a safe and easily accessible storage space.

Can I walk on loft boards?

Never stand on the plasterboard as this won't bear your weight and only stand on the ceiling joists if you have to. For easier movement in the loft, we recommend using walk boards (also known as crawl boards) laid across the joists. ... These walk boards can be lifted and moved as you work around the loft.

What is the distance between loft legs?

Loft legs are spaced about 30cm apart between every joist.

What are loft stilts?

Loft Storage Stilts have been specifically designed to create a raised boarded area inside a loft. Simply clip and slide the stilt onto the joist in your loft into the desired position. ... Lay your insulation down and then fit the loft boards by screwing into the surface plate of the stilt.

What size screws loft stilts?

The best screws to use are 4mmx30mm countersunk multi-purpose screws. We have specific recommended screws on our web-site. You will need approximately 6 screws for each Loft Leg you are fitting.

Is my loft strong enough for storage?

As long as they are not damaged, the joists should be strong enough to allow you to move around in the attic for an inspection and to provide storage for typical boxed items. But they may not be adequate to support the weight of multiple people, furniture, and heavy stored items.

Can you store things in a loft?

The most efficient approach is to use the LoftZone StoreFloor system. Loft storage doesn't have to be in boxes. Shelving or cupboards can be installed in the eaves area to save space and keep your possessions safer and more organised. It isn't easy to keep track of what you store in the loft.

How much weight can my attic hold?

The weight is supported by the joists A 10 pounds per square foot live load can be handled by an attic that isn't designed for storage. 20 pounds per square foot live load can be handled by an attic with limited storage.

How do you strengthen a loft floor?

Why can't you use the loft in a new build house?

Boarding directly onto the joists or onto a timber subframe means that air doesn't cool fully before it hits the timbers and boarding. These then act as thermal bridges which gather interstitial condensation and damp. Over time they will start to rot and become unsafe.

Should loft boards be staggered?

Try to lay out your loft boards in a staggered pattern. This is important because you don't want the joints in all your loft boards to meet up as this could compromise its structure. The best screws for the job include 4mm x 30mm countersunk multi-purpose screws.

Can you do a loft conversion yourself?

Potential buyers can be put off by properties with DIY additions, like DIY loft conversions, that aren't up to regulations and don't have building inspector sign off. ... Planning a loft conversion means thinking ahead, too. Boarding out your loft is great for better storage – you can even add a window.

Do you need building regs for loft boarding?

You can board out your loft without Building Regulation approval but laying or fitting loft flooring in the loft or attic must only be done to store light items, such as empty suitcases.

How much weight can loft joists take?

Trusses in new build homes are designed and built to allow for 25Kg/m2 of storage plus the weight of a person walking in the loft. For older homes a professional survey may be required. The safe load will depend on the size of the joist and the length of its span.

Can I board my loft and use it as a bedroom?

If you're converting your loft into an extra bedroom, a playroom or some other room, the work will have to meet the government's Building Regulations. ... The room must be accessible via a fixed staircase, not a retractable ladder. New joists must be added if needed to support the extra floor weight.

Can I use my loft as an office?

A home office conversion in your loft space could be just the ticket. A converted loft is the perfect place for an office. It's a separate, secluded area away from distractions, and it's usually the place in the home that gets the most natural light, providing you with perfect working conditions.

Should loft insulation go to the edges?

Insulation should be continued right to the edge of the ceilings but it shouldn't block the eaves' ventilation. ... You must also avoid laying insulation over recessed light fittings or cables in the loft space that may overheat.