Loft boarding has become an increasingly popular way to make use of the space in your attic. From providing extra storage to offering an affordable way to improve a home, loft boarding is often a great solution.
But before you take the plunge, you’ll surely want to know the cost of boarding a loft.
In this article, we’ll explore the cost of loft boarding, explaining everything you need to know about the process including when it’s needed, its benefits and, ultimately, how much it costs. A comprehensive guide, we’ll also take a look at the various factors that influence pricing and offer some tips on how you can make the project more affordable.
Read on to find out more…
What Is Loft Boarding?
Loft boarding refers to the process of installing a solid, load-bearing floor in your loft space. This involves laying boards over the attic’s existing joists to create a usable platform for storage or even light foot traffic (so you don’t need to worry about falling through the floor!). Depending on your needs, loft boarding can cover an entire loft or focus on a section of it.
In most cases, loft boarding is paired with other improvements such as insulation, lighting or access enhancements such as ladders. It’s designed to optimise the functionality of your loft while also maintaining its structural integrity.
Typically, loft boarding doesn’t usually involve converting your loft into a full living space (this is a loft conversion), but it’s a cost-effective way to make better use of an area that could otherwise go to waste.
When Is Loft Boarding Needed?
There are a whole host of situations where loft boarding might be necessary or desirable. This includes:
Need For Extra Storage
If your home is running out of storage space, boarding your loft can provide a convenient and accessible solution for storing seasonal items, old belongings or anything you simply don’t need on a daily basis.
Decluttering Your Living Spaces
A boarded loft can help you declutter your home and keep it tidy, allowing you to free up space in rooms, cupboards and garages.
Improving Energy Efficiency
Many homeowners choose to board their loft in conjunction with insulation upgrades. Doing this at the same time makes it easier to retain heat in the home, reducing energy costs in the long term.
Preparing Your Home For A Sale
If you are looking to sell a property, a boarded loft is a great way to add extra value to a home. This is because it can make it more appealing to potential buyers who can see it as an added benefit.
Enhancing Accessibility
If your loft is difficult to access, adding boards alongside a proper ladder system can transform it into a practical and easily usable space.
Benefits Of Loft Boarding
If you’re considering boarding a loft, you can expect a wide range of benefits. Some of the key advantages include:
Increased Storage Space
A boarded loft provides a safe, clean and accessible area where household items can be stored. This is especially useful for storing bulky items like suitcases, Christmas decorations and other miscellaneous equipment.
Improved Home Value
As mentioned above, a boarded loft can be a great selling point for prospective buyers. It demonstrates that the property has additional usable storage space, helping increase its overall appeal and potentially its value.
Enhanced Energy Efficiency
If loft insulation is upgraded or improved during the boarding process, you’ll likely notice a reduction in energy bills. A well-insulated loft can prevent heat from escaping, keeping your home warmer and more comfortable during the winter months.
Easy Accessibility
When paired with a proper loft hatch and ladder, boarding can make accessing your loft much safer and easier. This is a huge improvement compared to balancing on exposed joists, wobbly stepladders or walking on unstable flooring.
Prevention Of Structural Damage
Walking on unboarded joists can cause damage to your ceiling below and be hazardous.
Loft boarding provides a stable surface, reducing the risk of accidents and avoiding costly repairs.
Cost-effective Alternative To A Loft Conversion
Full loft conversions can be expensive, so if you’re not ready to invest in this loft boarding is a much more affordable way to make your attic more functional.
How Much Does Loft Boarding Cost?
Loft boarding cost can vary significantly depending on several factors (which we’ll go into more detail in the section below) but to give you a general idea of the cost of boarding a loft let’s take a look at some average prices.
The process tends to involve laying chipboard flooring on top of the joists (as long as the joists are capable of load-bearing.
On average, you can expect to pay around £70 per square metre for loft boarding. Most lofts in the UK tend to be around 15 square metres, meaning you will pay approximately £1,050 for the entire project.
These figures will include the installation of the boards as well as materials. Keep in mind that these are average costs and the final price will depend on the specifics of your loft. The price will likely rise as the square metre increases.
Factors That Affect The Cost Of Loft Boarding
There are several factors that influence the cost of loft boarding. Understanding what these are can help you budget more effectively and make informed decisions about your project.
The main considerations to bear in mind include:
Size Of The Loft
The larger the area you want to board, the higher the cost will likely be. Most installers will charge you per square metre, so the total area that is being covered is a major factor.
Type Of Boarding System
There are many different types of boards available to choose from including:
- Standard chipboard: A budget-friendly standard option.
- Moisture-resistant boards: Slightly more expensive but ideal for lofts that are more prone to damp.
- Premium raised flooring systems: Designed to sit above insulation, these systems cost more but are necessary to comply with building regulations.
Condition Of Your Loft
If your loft requires any additional preparations, such as strengthening the joists to make sure they are load-bearing, improving ventilation or addressing any structural issues, the cost will increase.
Loft Insulation
If your loft has little insulation or it needs upgrading or replacing, this will add to the overall cost of the project. However, many homeowners find this investment worthwhile for the long-term savings on energy bills.
Access Requirements
If your loft currently has poor access and needs a new hatch or ladder, you will need to add this to the costs of the project. High-quality ladders can cost anywhere between £200 to £500, depending on the material and design.
Lighting And Electrical Work
Adding lighting to your loft space will increase costs but can greatly improve its usability. Basic lighting installations will typically start at around £100.
Labour Costs
You need to consider the cost of labour, too. This will depend on your location and the experience of the installer you have chosen. In general, professional installers tend to charge more in urban areas compared to more rural locations.
How To Save Money When Boarding A Loft
Loft boarding doesn’t have to break the bank, and there are many things you can do to keep costs down without compromising on quality. This includes:
Board Only What You Need
Instead of boarding the entire loft, consider only covering areas you need for storage. A smaller project will help to significantly reduce costs.
Compare Quotes
Take some time shopping around and get quotes from multiple installers to ensure you’re getting a fair price. Be sure to compare what’s included in each quote, as some may include extras like insulation or ladders.
Choose Standard Materials
If you don’t need premium materials like moisture-resistant boards or raised systems, opting for the standard chipboard option can lower costs.
DIY Where Possible
If you’re handy on the tools then you might be able to tackle some aspects of the project yourself. This can include tasks like clearing out the loft or laying simple boards yourself. Just be sure to check all of the safety guidelines and ensure you follow them properly.
Combine Projects
If you’re already conducting or planning other home improvements, like insulation upgrades or electrical work, combining these with loft boarding can save you money on labour costs.
Take Advantage Of Discounts
Some installers offer great discounts for larger projects or off-peak seasons. Make sure to ask them about any current promotions they may be running.
Maintain Your Loft
Once your loft is boarded, take care to use it appropriately and avoid overloading it. Proper maintenance can help you avoid costly repairs or replacements in the future.
Loft boarding is a practical and cost-effective way to enhance your home’s storage capacity and energy efficiency. There are multiple factors that can help you make the most of your investment, so if you’re considering loft boarding make sure to take the time to assess your specific needs and plan the project carefully.
