When it comes to utilizing every inch of your home, loft boarding or loft flooring offers a practical solution. Transforming unused attic space into functional storage or even additional living space requires careful planning and the right materials. In this guide, we’ll explore the steps, materials, and considerations needed to successfully install loft floors, enabling you to make the most of your loft area.
Loft Boarding: A Quick Overview
Loft boarding is the process of installing a wooden floor in an attic to create a flat, secure surface for storage, or sometimes, to create additional living or working space. It’s an essential home improvement project, especially in homes with limited storage space. Loft boarding provides a sturdy platform for storing belongings and protects the insulation from damage while making the space accessible.
Loft boarding involves the installation of timber boards across the joists in your loft space. These boards are typically either 18mm or 22mm thick and are designed to withstand weight and provide a stable, level surface. While the loft may already have joists in place, these might not be spaced appropriately to support the weight of the boards or your stored items. Loft boarding involves strengthening or adjusting these joists and ensuring the floor is solid enough for safe storage use.
The benefits of loft boarding include extra storage space. By adding boards, you increase the usable area in your attic, providing space for seasonal items, old furniture, and other stored belongings. It also helps in preserving existing insulation materials and ensuring no damage occurs during storage. With loft boarding, the access to your loft becomes safer and more convenient by installing steps or ladders.
Loft Flooring: A Step-by-Step Guide
Loft flooring is not just about adding boards in your attic. It’s about ensuring you use the right materials and follow the proper procedure for a sturdy and safe loft floor installation. Here’s a detailed guide to what’s required for the process:
Preparing the Loft Space
Before starting, it’s important to understand the size and condition of your attic. The primary goal is to ensure that your existing joists are strong enough to hold the weight of loft flooring and any items you intend to store there. Check the spacing of the joists to make sure it aligns with your plans. If not, additional support beams may need to be added. It’s also essential to inspect the joists for any damage like cracks or rot, as these could affect the stability of the flooring.
Choosing the Right Materials
Choosing the right material for your loft flooring is essential for durability and ease of installation. Materials such as plywood, chipboard, and OSB are commonly used for loft boarding. Plywood, with a thickness of about 18mm, is a popular choice because of its strength and durability. Chipboard or OSB may be cheaper but also offer sufficient support for general storage. If you are looking for a high-quality finish, tongue-and-groove boards may be a better option, as they lock together securely and prevent any unwanted movement over time.
Preparing the Loft Area for Installation
Proper preparation of the loft area is crucial for a successful loft flooring installation. This step ensures the floor will be stable, safe, and able to support the weight of the boards and stored items. Here’s how you can prepare the loft space effectively:
Clear Out the Loft
Start by removing any clutter, debris, or old insulation that may obstruct the installation process. This includes any old furniture, boxes, or unused items that are currently stored in the attic. A clear space allows you to work efficiently and also helps identify any existing issues with the loft’s structure, such as weak or damaged joists.
Inspect the Loft Joists
Once the space is clear, thoroughly inspect the loft’s joists. The joists serve as the foundation for the loft flooring, so it’s essential to check that they are in good condition. Look for any signs of damage such as cracks, rot, or warping. If you notice any issues, they need to be repaired or replaced before proceeding with the flooring installation. Additionally, check the spacing between the joists to ensure they are evenly spaced and capable of supporting the new flooring.
Reinforce the Joists if Needed
In some cases, the spacing between the joists may be too wide to properly support the weight of the loft flooring. If the joists are too far apart (more than 60cm), you’ll need to add extra support by installing loft Floors additional joists or strengthening the existing ones with cross-bracing or blocking. This will help distribute the weight evenly across the loft, preventing any sagging or movement in the flooring over time.
Check the Insulation
Before laying down the boards, check the condition of the loft insulation. In many cases, the existing insulation may have become compressed or damaged. If so, replace or top up the insulation to ensure it remains effective. Good insulation is important for energy efficiency, as it helps maintain the temperature inside your home. If the insulation is in good condition, make sure it is evenly distributed and not obstructing the joists, as this could affect the stability of the floor.
Plan for Access and Ventilation
Consider how you will access the loft space once the flooring is installed. If you don’t already have a ladder or staircase, this might be a good time to install one. A safe and easy way to access your loft is important for both convenience and safety, especially if you plan to store or retrieve items frequently.
Preparing the loft area before installation is a crucial step to ensure that everything fits properly. Clear out any debris or insulation that may obstruct your ability to install the flooring. If the insulation is damaged or missing, it’s also a great opportunity to add new insulation. This will help keep your home energy-efficient. It is also important to secure the joists. If they are weak or too far apart, strengthening or adding support beams will provide better support for the flooring boards.
Installing the Loft Flooring
Once the loft area is prepared, you can begin installing the loft flooring. Start by laying the first row of boards along the edge of the loft, ensuring they run perpendicular to the joists. Use screws or nails to secure each board to the joists. Make sure to space the screws evenly to prevent the boards from lifting.
Continue laying the boards across the loft, adding rows until you reach the far end. If any boards need to be cut to fit, a circular saw or jigsaw can be used to make clean cuts. Ensure the cuts are precise to avoid gaps between the boards. Leave a small gap between the boards and the walls to allow for natural expansion caused by temperature fluctuations.
Once the flooring is installed, check the surface for any uneven areas or loose boards. Ensure that the floor is completely secure before using the loft for storage. For easier access to the loft, you might consider installing a loft ladder or stairs. This is especially useful if you plan to access the loft frequently.
How to Strengthen the Loft Floor for Heavy Loads
If you plan to store heavy items like old furniture, boxes, or seasonal gear, you may need to reinforce the flooring to support the weight. Adding additional joists to reduce the spacing between them provides more support for the boards. For heavier loads, consider using stronger materials, such as thicker plywood or reinforced chipboard. In some cases, adding a subfloor made of 18mm or thicker plywood underneath the top flooring can help distribute the weight evenly and prevent sagging over time.
Safety Considerations When Installing Loft Flooring
While installing loft flooring can be a relatively simple DIY project, it’s important to keep safety in mind. Always wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from debris, dust, and sharp edges. Using a secure ladder is essential when accessing the loft space to ensure stability. Proper ventilation is also crucial when working with materials that produce dust or when adding insulation. Ensure there is adequate airflow in the loft to avoid inhaling harmful dust particles.
Cost of Installing Loft Floors
The cost of installing loft flooring can vary depending on the size of your loft, the materials you choose, and whether you hire a professional or do it yourself. Generally, costs include materials like plywood or chipboard, screws and fasteners, insulation, joist reinforcement, and the installation of a loft ladder. These prices can vary based on location and the specific requirements of your loft.