Loft space recommendations

isotonic_uk

Hi

We live in a typical 1930s semi and I am looking to use it fprodomintely for extra storage space. Currently there is no loft ladder and once up there, there is just insulation everywhere and a bit of mess.

I will be calling in some loft companies to provide me a quote and something that has been mentioned is about damp/mould issues which could occur over time if the boards don't have enough space to breath. Looking into few options is the only option for the type of property I have only timber cross brace? My concern with this is apparently it uses the existing joints in the roof and I am thinking would this be strong enough, provide adequate clearance and prevent any damp issues?

One key requirement is to help save on heating bills so insulation and the type that would be suitable for the property and keep warm is important. Are there any recommendations on what options are out there? The same goes for a loft ladder. Is a timber based ladder the right option between practicallity and price? I will be looking for the largest size possible so it makes moving things up and down easier. I am guessing a snug fit is important to ensure no draught is left for warm air to escape.

Any suggestions on options would be hugely appreciated. 

Thanks

Dixie6549

Making the most of a loft conversion usually entails accepting the odd spaces that come with it. Inserting shelves or a desk into a tight corner, or having cupboards custom-built to fit a sloped roof, is a fantastic way to maximize space while still providing a proper storage solution.

Bendy_House

Hi Iso. 

Being '30s, I'm guessing that the joists will be reasonably strong, so flooring part of the loft area for storage should present no issues in that regard. Could you take a photo through the hatch?

And ALL you wish to do is use the space for storage? In which case it's as you say; you want full loft insulation on the ceiling, nothing under the roof, part of the floor boarded out, ideally good lighting, and safe access.

How often have you been up there, and at what times of the year? 

I'm guessing that it's very warm up there on sunny days, and cold on coldies. And - ideally - windy on windies. That's what it SHOULD be like, as it MUST have plenty of ventilation along the eaves, which you keep clear of loft insulation. And, since the actual pitched ROOF is not insulated, the loft space will reflect the temp outside, hot or cold. That's how it should be. Have you been up there on windy days? If so, was it draughty? If 'yes', then good.

Have you EVER sensed that is was damp or musty? Ever seen a glisten of condensation? No? Good.

To make it suited for storage, you look to add the recommended level of insulation above the ceilings, keeping the eaves (where the loft usually ventilates) clear to the soffits outside. If in doubt about this part, then look it up on t'net, and/or post photos on here.

Then you board out whatever areas you need for storage, again avoiding the very eaves. First conundrum - the recommended thickness of loft insulation will be greater that the depths of the joists - you'll almost certainly be filling in between the joists, and then laying ANOTHER layer of insulation OVER the joists at right angles. The solution it to use board legs which are screwed to the joists, and raise the boards to above insulation level.

Bendy_House

This is all a handyperson/DIY job, and you don't need a loft conversion company. You just need to ensure that whoever does the job understands the essential need to keep that space ventilated. 

If it's draughty up there, as it should be, then the stuff you store should remain perfectly dry and safe. It might be dusty over time, so make sure it's in boxes or bags. For bags, consider vacuuming them down and sealing them. 

Finally, good lighting - a couple of plastic globed LED bulbs or similar. It should be very easy to add this as the lighting cables should be running along the joists. The person doing this should obviously be competent.

Aluminium ladders are usually lighter and easier to use, and there are lots to chose from. The choice will largely come down to things like, how often you go up there, how large the hatch is (does it need enlarging?), what your mobility is like, that sort of stuff. For instance, if the stuff is for long term storage - a year or so - then even a stepladder could do?!

isotonic_uk

Thanks for the responses. I should mention I am not speaking to 'loft conversion' companies but more like Loft boarding and loft ladder company who effectively just turn a loft into storage. 

In terms of loft boarding. Do others have experience of installations using LoftZone vs Loft Legs? One better than the other? My take on it is that Loftzone sells itself more about a better weight distribution because of the way it houses the boarding? 

I be keen to hear from others who have had either installations.