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Preparing the loft space

 

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Introduction

To make the installation process as hassle free as possible, it helps to prepare the loft space first. This involves as many of the following as you feel is required, remember if in any doubt always consult an appropriate professional tradesperson;

Preparing the loft

Its not a good idea to install loft insulation with simply a torch to light the area. If there is no fixed lighting in the loft, run an extension lead through the hatchway and hang a suitable light from a beam.

Do not try to work standing on the joists, remember the ceiling below will not take a persons weight if you were to slip. Instead use a plank or board of wood, wide enough to kneel on safely, lain across at least three joists.

Cracks and holes in the ceiling below should always be filled, this prevents heated air reaching the loft and creating condensation. Also, if using loose-fill material, this prevents any falling through the cracks.

If the roof requires any attention - for example insect infestation, cracked felt underlay, broken tiles etc - its best to fix these before applying the insulation.

Electric wiring must not be covered by any insulation material, this is to ensure that the small amount of heat produced by the cable is allowed to dissipate into the air. If not, the heat may build up and become a fire risk.



Loose-fill insulation

If you are thinking intending to use loose-fill insulation, check the height of the joists to ensure that at least 200mm (8in) of material can be applied. If not the joists can be raised by nailing strips of wood to the top of them.

If your loft is draughty then any loose fill insulation lain will be need to be sealed in place to avoid it being blown around the loft space. In this situation it may be worth considering using a different material.

  • Joist end boards need to be fitted to ensure that the loose-fill material does not pour away through ventilation slots.

Roll or matting insulation

If you are planning on installing roll or matting insulation, but wish to be able to move around the loft space afterwards, then it may not be appropriate to lay the material across the joists. In this situation you will need to raise the height of the joists by affixing strips of wood to the tops of the joists.

Ventilation

The loft space must have adequate ventilation to ensure that condensation does not build up and create a damp problem. If you can see any daylight near the eaves or between any slates or tiles, then ventilation is probably not an issue. If not, then additional ventilation must be added.

A ventilation slot running the length of the eaves, approximately 10mm (3/8in) wide, is usually more than enough. If the eaves have a soffit, then soffit vents are a perfect solution.

  • A soffit is the exposed underside of any overhead component of a building, such as an arch, balcony, beam, cornice, or lintel.

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