Are you in search of details about how to get a loft boarded?
This article will give you all you should know about how to board the loft, which includes the steps-to-take guide and checklists of all the equipment and supplies you’ll require for the job.
Why Do I Need to Board My Loft?
The loft can be boarded to allow you to maximize the storage capacity of your loft, and it will increase the safety and stability to manoeuvre about in.
This is an extremely helpful option when you’re struggling to find storage space at home.
How to Board a Loft Yourself
Step 1:
Start by measuring the distance between centers of the joists. This will aid in making calculations for the amount of loft legs that are required.
In the next step, you’ll have to determine the size of boards you’ll be using. The average thickness of the loft floor is 18mm.
Step 2:
When you’ve figured out the dimensions of the sheets you’ll use then you can calculate the loft space and figure out the number of sheets needed to cover the area.
Step 3:
If downlights are present in the ceiling, they must be covered with the downlight protector or cover. Make sure the insulation isn’t near the lighting fixture.
Step 4:
Begin at a suitable spot like next to the loft hatch, and work to move around from there. Install your first loft leg into place with the help of a cordless drill. The screws will be driven through the holes in the bottom of the leg before driving them into the joint.
Step 5:
Make use of a straightedge to draw the position of the legs of the loft on other joists. proceed to fix the legs into these places using the same technique.
Step 6:
Repeat this procedure through the joists until the whole area you wish to board has legs.
Step 7:
Then, you can roll the insulation until it is in the right position. When the insulation is near a loft leg, cut an incision with the trimming knife, and then move the leg into the insulation. Repeat this procedure across the entire length of the space for the loft.
Step 8:
After the insulation has been installed The loft boards can be put in place. The first sheet should be placed on the top of the loft legs, and then put a screw through the board and into the top of the leg that is lofted. This will ensure it is securely secured.
Step 9:
The loft boards could come with an edging fitting with a tongue and groove. Make sure it’s nice and secure as you continue connecting the boards to one another.
Repeat the process until you have secured the boards to the loft’s legs. In certain lofts, it may be necessary to cut some of the boards around obstructions or to make them fit in the space.
Step 10:
After all the boards are attached onto the legs you will then be in a position to walk and stand on the floor.
Tools for Boarding a Loft
- Tape measures
- Drill bits and cordless drill
- Pencil
- Cutie to trim the Hand Saw
Safety Equipment to board the Loft
- Builder’s gloves
- Dust mask
- Eye protection
- Knee pads
Materials to board a Loft
- Protector or cover for downlights
- Loft legs
- Loft boards
- Screws
- Insulation rolls (if they’re not in the proper depth)
How to prepare for boarding a Loft
In order to prepare for the boarding of your loft, you need to start by clearing out all items that you may have stored in the loft. It is also important to make sure that the space is insulated prior to boarding.
The insulation you install must have a minimum of 270mm in thickness throughout to comply with the government suggested guidelines.
It is essential for a clear view of the joint within the flooring to know where you are able to walk. Therefore, you must take away any insulation so that you can see the Joists.
Before beginning the work make sure that your access to the loft area is secure as well as that your ladder is secure.
Make sure that the loft is adequately lit in order to ensure that it’s safe for you to move around in and the work that needs to be completed.
Additionally, you’ll have to make sure that the loft is ventilated prior to any work being done.
Loft Insulation Regulations
Before you board your loft, it is essential to take into consideration the building regulations and planning permissions to ensure that your loft’s border is in compliance.
You can occupy your loft without obtaining building regulations approval provided that the loft can only be used for storage of items that weigh smaller than 25kg.
The loft insulation should be maintained at a minimum thickness of 270mm. Prior to 2013, the 100mm depth was the minimum. This has changed since 2013, however homeowners do not have to extend the length as per these new rules.
However, you’ll have to seek the building permit and planning permission in the event that you want to convert an old loft to a living space.
The different types of loft Boarding
There is a variety of loft boarding. However, the best method for boarding a loft is to use loft legs. This will ensure that the insulation level in your loft is up to government standards.
Below is a listing of types of loft boardings:
Laying Chipboard Directly on Joists
It’s a cost-effective method of boarding which can be laid out quickly. However, this kind of boarding does not leave enough space to the required insulation thickness and insulation can be compressed, which could cause mould and condensation.
Insulation Boarding:
It is possible to purchase insulation boards which are laid directly on the Joists. This provides the insulation thickness Then, you put a chipboard on top of these boards. But, they are expensive and they may also lead to mould and condensation because of less airflow.
Using Loft Legs:
It is possible to elevate the floor with loft legs. This is regarded as the most effective loft board. It provides enough space under the floor to allow for insulation, and also allows for adequate air circulation, which helps to prevent the condensation of damp and.
