Loft boarding is the process of laying a floor over the joists in your loft space, creating a sturdy and usable storage area. If you’re looking to create extra space in your home, but don’t have the budget or space for an extension, loft boarding is an excellent option. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of loft boarding, the types of loft boarding available, and what you need to consider before installing a loft boarding system in your home in Warwickshire.
Benefits of Loft Boarding
- Extra Storage Space: One of the most significant benefits of loft boarding Warwickshire is the extra storage space it creates. With a boarded loft, you can store items that you don’t need on a daily basis, such as Christmas decorations or old clothes, freeing up space in your home.
- Insulation: Loft boarding can also improve the insulation in your home, reducing your energy bills and making your home more comfortable. A boarded loft can help to keep your home warmer in the winter by trapping heat, and cooler in the summer by providing an extra layer of insulation.
- Safety: Loft boarding can improve the safety of your home by providing a stable and safe storage area. If you have a lot of items in your loft, it can be dangerous to walk around on the joists, but a boarded loft provides a stable surface to walk on, reducing the risk of accidents.
Types of Loft Boarding
There are several types of loft boarding available, including:
- Chipboard: Chipboard is the most common type of loft boarding and is a popular choice due to its affordability. It’s made from compressed wood chips and is sturdy enough to support the weight of storage boxes and other items.
- Plywood: Plywood is a more expensive option than chipboard, but it’s also more durable. It’s made from thin layers of wood that are glued together, creating a sturdy and long-lasting surface.
- Loft Leg: Loft legs are a type of loft boarding that doesn’t involve laying a floor. Instead, they raise the existing joists, creating a stable platform for storage. Loft legs are a good option if you want to avoid drilling into your ceiling or if you have insulation that you don’t want to disturb.
What to Consider Before Installing Loft Boarding
Before installing loft boarding in your home, there are several factors to consider, including:
- The Condition of Your Loft: The first thing to consider is the condition of your loft. If your loft is damp or has any structural issues, you may need to address these before installing loft boarding.
- The Type of Loft Boarding: You’ll need to decide on the type of loft boarding that you want to install. Chipboard is the most popular option due to its affordability, but if you want a more durable surface, you may want to consider plywood.
- The Accessibility of Your Loft: Loft boarding can create extra storage space, but it’s important to ensure that your loft is still easily accessible. If you plan on storing heavy items, you may need to install a loft ladder or upgrade your existing access point.
- Building Regulations: It’s important to check building regulations before installing loft boarding. There are regulations in place to ensure that loft conversions and boarding are carried out safely, so it’s important to check that you’re complying with these regulations.
- Cost: Loft boarding can be an affordable way to create extra storage space, but it’s still important to consider the cost. The price of loft boarding will depend on the type of boarding that you choose, the size of your loft, and the complexity of the installation.
Conclusion
Loft boarding is an excellent option for homeowners in Warwickshire who are looking to create extra storage space in their homes. It’s affordable, can improve insulation, and provides a safe and stable storage area. There are different types of loft boarding available, including chipboard, plywood, and loft legs, each with their own benefits and drawbacks. Before installing loft boarding, it’s important to consider the condition of your loft, the type of boarding you want to install, the accessibility of your loft, building regulations, and the cost. Overall, loft boarding is a great investment for homeowners in Warwickshire who want to maximize the storage potential of their homes without breaking the bank.