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A topic that confuses many homeowners is loft extension regulations, leading to numerous questions, such as “Can I extend my loft boarding if I get an extension?”. As specialists in the loft boarding industry and experts in implementing outstanding loft storage solutions, we thought we’d put together a guide on loft extension regulations, and the factors you need to consider when looking to extend your loft.
Typically, when getting an extension for your home, the loft might either be an afterthought for some or a key focus. Whether you’ve already had your existing loft boarded or are waiting for your extension to be completed, there are a few parameters that need to be considered when thinking about the loft size.
Loft boarding allows for the use of previously unusable space, providing the option to move a lot of your belongings into a location that may be more reserved for long-term storage and is a benefit many do not take advantage of.
The products we offer at LoftZone ensure you can make the most of your loft size whilst ensuring the safety and longevity of your insulation and roof beams, adhering to all loft extension regulations. Our expertly designed raised loft boarding solution not only allows for additional storage in your home but also maximises airflow and reduces energy bills. The reason for this is the airflow allows for heat to regulate and reduce the loss of warm air through your roof.
Depending on the level of work needing to be carried out in your extension, planning permission may have to be explored. However, in some cases, you may not need planning permission, with confirmation needing to be obtained by the homeowner regarding the plans and the work to be carried out.
Luckily, the process of planning permission won’t need to be explored if you’re looking to install loft boarding as the level of work is minimal, and little to no amendments to the physical house will need to be carried out, meaning you’re able to gain improved loft size with minimal hassle.
Typically, it is best to fit the loft boards once the loft space is ready. If you’re expanding the loft size that boarding will need to cover, completion of the extension should then trigger the beginning of the boarding installation. Damaging of the loft boards themselves, or the mounts which they sit upon, could occur if the installation is started whilst continued building work is being carried out.
If you knowingly want to install loft boards into your new loft space, it is suggested that you plan ahead and include this within your overall extension plans. This way, knowing the amount of work needed overall and how many materials you’ll need won’t be a surprise.
At LoftZone, if overordering of materials happens and your loft size has differed from the expected, we pride ourselves in offering the ability to return the materials and receive a refund – as long as they haven’t been used.
As a homeowner, all decisions are yours and yours alone, including those surrounding any loft extension regulations that must be followed. This means the amount of boarding you’d like to have in your loft is completely your decision. However, there are some recommendations we suggest to stick to, no matter the loft size.
When looking to board your loft, it is suggested to allow an adequate amount of headroom. This is purely down to health and safety reasons as most homes have beams that could cause issues when passing through the loft space.
Ensuring a safe and ideal way to access your loft is essential. Different variations of ladders and the hatch itself should be identified and targeted if it will knowingly be a problem down the line. Orientation of the hatch and ladder can be discussed with our professionals. If a replacement is needed, this can also be discussed.
Box storage is a common use when a loft has been boarded. To ensure you use your space efficiently, explore shelving solutions and consider them within the original plans.
Hopefully, you now have a better understanding of some of the loft extension regulations and requirements you need to consider when looking to board a loft extension.
If boarding your loft is something you’re looking to achieve in the future, once your extension has been completed, feel free to get in touch. We’ll be able to suggest the ideal form of loft boarding and can cater to the loft size and amount of storage you’re looking to achieve.
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