Is it safe to board my attic and where can I find cheap wood?

Cavitywalladvice · 22 August 2017 at 4:59PM

I know that you can't keep too much weight in the attic and also if you've a lot of insulation (which I will add soon) nailing boards on top can cause the ceiling below to bow.

But apart from that would it be okay to board the middle of my attic and keep the odd box and Christmas decorations up there? /imgur.cxm/a/YT824 (replace x with o)

If it's okay how much would the wood cost me and can I use nails instead of screws?

Warwick_Hunt · 22 August 2017 at 5:00PM

You can use nails but increase the risk of cracking the ceiling below.

Cavitywalladvice · 22 August 2017 at 5:03PM

Thanks then screws it is!

EachPenny · 22 August 2017 at 6:05PM

Cavitywalladvice wrote: »

Thanks then screws it is!

Good choice

Bear in mind the boards themselves will add a lot of weight into the loftspace (as you will discover if you try to lift several at a time).

Don't be tempted to keep on adding stuff into the space as over time the weight builds up. Everybody starts with 'just a couple of boxes', but finishes up with several hundred kilos.

Cavitywalladvice · 22 August 2017 at 6:21PM

Thanks, I'll be sure to make sure to keep it sparse.

sparkychris · 22 August 2017 at 7:00PM

EachPenny wrote: »

Good choice

Bear in mind the boards themselves will add a lot of weight into the loftspace (as you will discover if you try to lift several at a time).

Don't be tempted to keep on adding stuff into the space as over time the weight builds up. Everybody starts with 'just a couple of boxes', but finishes up with several hundred kilos.

You've clearly met my girlfriend!