Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section, where we address common queries about our loft boarding services. Delve into this informative space to gain insights into the benefits of investing in loft boarding, discover what sets Edinburgh & Lothian Loft Boarding apart, understand the installation process timeline, explore design customization options, and learn about the cost-effectiveness of our services. If you have more questions or need specific details, our team is ready to assist. Explore the FAQs to make informed decisions about transforming your loft with Edinburgh & Lothian Loft Boarding.
General FAQ
FAQs: Getting to Know Your Loft Boarding Service
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Q: Why invest in loft boarding?
A: Loft boarding transforms unused space into functional areas, adding value to your property and maximising living or storage space.
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Q: What sets Edinburgh & Lothian Loft Boarding apart?
A: Our meticulous attention to insulation, raised flooring on stilts, and the use of tongue and groove Caber flooring ensures compliance with NHBC regulations, guaranteeing quality and efficiency.
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Q: How long does the installation process take?
A: The timeframe varies based on the scope of the project, but our efficient team works diligently to minimise disruption, completing most installations in a timely manner.
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Q: Can I choose the design of my loft boarding?
A: Absolutely! We offer tailored solutions to match your preferences, ensuring your loft becomes a personalized and aesthetically pleasing space.
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New Build Warranty Information
Concerned about how loft boarding might impact your New Build Warranty? The answer is a resounding no—when installed correctly, it won't invalidate your NHBC warranty. This common query often arises, and we've extensively discussed it with the NHBC Technical Department and sought advice from a Chartered Structural Engineer.
It's crucial to note that this insight applies universally to all raised loft storage systems.
The NHBC has clarified their stance, stating that if homeowners install it themselves, it won't invalidate the warranty. However, any defects arising from the system's installation, like condensation or structural damage, wouldn't be covered. This underscores the importance of ensuring that loft boarding installations don't lead to such issues.
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The NHBC further confirms that structural design is essential when providing access to loft space, accounting for occasional entry and maintenance. They acknowledge a nominal live load allowance, considering homeowners might store light, miscellaneous items infrequently in the loft area.
Chartered Structural Engineers corroborate these findings, emphasizing that trusses with a loft hatch in new homes should adhere to the BS 6399-1:1996 standard.
This standard dictates a truss design capable of carrying a 25kg/m² storage load and a 90kg load for a person accessing the loft.
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In summary, a correctly installed and loaded raised loft storage system doesn't compromise your NHBC warranty. If your new house includes a loft hatch, the trusses should have been designed to support a storage load of 25kg/m² and a 90kg person, in line with industry standards.
Planning Permission Queries
Wondering about the need for planning permission when considering loft boarding? The straightforward answer: no, you don't need planning permission to board a loft for storage. Planning permission typically comes into play for major works or extensive attic/loft conversions intended for living extension purposes. However, it's essential to note that in some homes, the timber joists may not have the necessary strength to support additional weight or storage.
To address this, we conduct a survey to determine if your loft has adequate ceiling joists for boarding. Many ceilings are designed solely for the weight of the plaster ceiling, and any additional load should not be directly placed on existing ceiling joists. In older properties, approximately 50+ years, the ceiling joists may not be suitable for supporting extra weight, necessitating the construction of a self-supporting sub-frame above them.
In contrast, most new houses may only require a simple raised sub-frame to achieve the correct height, avoiding compression or removal of loft insulation. It's crucial to comply with relevant building regulations for insulation, both during initial installation and when fitted retrospectively.