LoftZone StoreFloor
A raised platform system that lifts the deck high above the joists, leaving room for the full recommended depth of insulation beneath it.
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Raised Loft Boarding for Storage
Our raised loft boarding sits on supports above the insulation, giving you a solid storage floor while the loft keeps its full depth of insulation underneath.
270mmrecommended loft insulation depth to keep beneath raised boardsSource: Energy Saving Trust
Loft & Insulation
Loft Boarding with EcoBuild Contractors
Most people want two things from a loft: somewhere to put the suitcases and decorations, and a roof that keeps the heat in. Traditional boarding screwed straight onto the joists gives you the first and spoils the second, because it flattens the insulation underneath. We fit raised loft boarding instead, lifting the floor clear of the insulation so both jobs are done properly.
We install LoftZone StoreFloor, Loft Legs and timber-raised platforms, and choose between them on the survey. StoreFloor uses engineered supports and beams to lift the deck well above the joists, which suits lofts insulated to the recommended depth or more. Loft Legs are individual supports screwed to the joists, a flexible choice for smaller areas and walkways. Timber platforms suit bespoke layouts. All are decked with tongue-and-groove chipboard.
A good storage floor also needs a safe way up and a bit of light. Boarding is usually planned together with a loft ladder, an insulated hatch and, if you want one, a light near the hatch fitted by a qualified electrician. We look at the whole route from the landing to the storage area, so you are not left with a fine new floor that you can only reach from a wobbly step ladder.
What we do
Loft boarding and storage work we carry out
Loft Legs boarding systems
Individual raised supports fixed to each joist, adaptable to uneven timbers and to smaller or irregular storage areas.
Timber-raised boarding platforms
Platforms built up on timber bearers, useful for bespoke shapes, deep insulation or lofts where a kit system will not fit.
Standard loft boarding
Boards fixed directly to the joists where that suits, such as walkways in lofts insulated at rafter level or joists already deep enough for full insulation.
Walkways to tanks and services
A raised path from the hatch to the cold water tank, flue or aerial so they can be reached safely for maintenance.
Bespoke loft storage areas
Storage floors planned around trusses, tanks and the hatch, from a central platform to larger floors in traditional cut roofs.
Loft shelving and storage
Shelves fixed to the sides of trusses where the design allows, plus guard rails around the hatch opening.
Hatch enlargement and relocation
A bigger or better placed opening so boxes and cases fit through easily, often done with a new loft ladder.
Loft lighting and power
A light and switch by the hatch, with electrical work carried out by competent, qualified electricians and certification provided where applicable.
Why it is worth it
Benefits of loft boarding
Space without building
Boxes and bulky items move out of bedrooms, the garage and the cupboard under the stairs and into space you already own.
Insulation kept at full depth
Raised supports hold the boards clear of the insulation, so it is never squashed and keeps working as it should.
Safer underfoot
A solid floor removes the risk of stepping between the joists and putting a foot through the ceiling below.
Air can still move
The gap between the insulation and the deck lets air circulate, which helps stop moisture getting trapped under the boards.
How much weight can a boarded loft take?
Boarding spreads the weight of what you store, but it does not make the ceiling joists any stronger. In most modern houses the loft floor is formed by the bottom members of trussed rafters, which were designed to carry a plasterboard ceiling and light storage, not heavy furniture or gym equipment. Older homes with traditional cut roofs vary a great deal with joist size and span.
The raised systems carry their own load ratings from the manufacturer, but the real limit is usually the roof structure below. We keep storage close to the walls and supports where we can and advise light, boxed items rather than heavy ones. Anything heavier, or using the loft as a room, needs a structural engineer and Building Regulations approval, which makes it a loft conversion rather than boarding.
StoreFloor, Loft Legs or a timber platform: which suits my loft?
LoftZone StoreFloor builds a deck high enough to sit above the full recommended insulation depth, and its beams run across the joists, which also helps where the joist spacing is uneven. It suits central storage areas in standard trussed lofts and anyone who wants the most room for insulation.
Loft Legs fix directly onto each joist and raise the boards a set height above it. They are quick to fit and work well for walkways and smaller platforms. Timber-raised platforms are built to measure, which helps with odd shapes or very deep insulation. We measure your joists and insulation on the survey and recommend the option that keeps the full depth and gives you the storage you need.
Our process
How the job runs
- Survey and layoutWe check the roof type, joist size and spacing, the insulation depth and the access, then mark out a storage area the structure can sensibly carry.
- Insulation firstAny thin or damaged insulation is topped up or replaced so the finished depth is right before the floor covers it.
- Raised supports and deckingStoreFloor or Loft Legs are fixed to the joists and levelled, then the chipboard panels are laid and screwed down.
- Finishing offEdges are trimmed around trusses, walkways are linked up, any ladder or hatch is fitted, and the loft is swept clean.
FAQ
Loft Boarding questions
Do I need planning permission for loft boarding?
No. Boarding a loft for storage is not a change of use and does not normally need planning permission or Building Regulations approval. Turning the loft into a bedroom or office is a different matter.
Can you board over my existing insulation?
Yes, that is what a raised system is for. If the existing layer is thin, we top it up first so the boards go over the full recommended depth.
How long does it take to board a loft?
A central storage area is usually boarded in a day. Larger floors, or jobs that include insulation, a ladder and lighting, may need a second day.
What boards do you use?
Tongue-and-groove chipboard loft panels, sized to pass through a standard hatch and screwed down to the supports so they do not creak or lift.
Can the whole loft be boarded?
Sometimes, but trusses, tanks, low eaves and the need to keep the edges clear for airflow usually limit the area. We show you what is practical on the survey.
Free, no-obligation quote
Get a free quote for loft boarding
Tell us a little about your property and the work you need. Add a few photos if you can, it helps us give you an accurate price sooner.
Related services
Often booked with loft boarding
Loft Ladders & Hatches
Aluminium, timber and telescopic loft ladders fitted with an insulated, draught-sealed hatch, and openings enlarged or moved where they need to be.
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Loft Insulation & Boarding
Old insulation removed, new mineral wool laid to around 270 to 300mm, then a raised storage floor, ladder and hatch fitted so the loft works properly.
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Loft Ventilation
Felt lap, eaves, soffit and roof vents fitted to keep air moving through the roof space and stop condensation, mould and wet insulation.
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