Thinking about spring cleaning and decluttering? If you want to declutter your home and create additional storage space, your loft can be the perfect solution. With the right approach, a boarded loft can become a practical and spacious storage area. Here’s how to make the most of your loft storage space:
Boarding your Loft: Creating a Stable Foundation
The first step in preparing your loft for storage is installing loft boarding. In the past, if people wanted to use their loft for storage, most people just laid boards on top of the joists. To properly insulate your loft it is recommended that you have at least 300mm (11”) of it – this means the insulation will sit higher than your loft joists. Squashing insulation halves its effectiveness, installing raised Loft boarding prevents your insulation from being squashed and creates a safe usable space for storage in your loft.
The safe and stable floor created by raised loft boarding makes it easier to move around and store items securely.
Utilise the Eaves: Making Use of Awkward Spaces
The space between the eaves and trusses is often not used, but with truss shelving or cupboards, you can maximises every inch of available space in your loft.
Think Vertical: Wall-Mounted Storage Solutions
Avoid cluttering the floor by making use of vertical space. Installing wall-mounted shelves or hanging storage systems allows you to store more while keeping items accessible. This is especially useful for lightweight items.
Partitioning: Create Storage Zones
To keep your loft storage functional, consider partitioning the space into designated storage zones. Categorise your items into sections such as seasonal clothing, christmas decorations, keepsakes and suitcases. This makes it easier to find what you need without rummaging through everything.
Lighting: Ensuring Safe and Easy Access
Proper lighting is essential for a functional loft storage space. Installing LED strip lights or overhead lighting will help you see clearly, making it easier to locate and retrieve your stored items while enhancing safety.
What else should I consider when using my loft for storage?
Insulation: Protect Your Belongings
Before adding storage, check your loft insulation. Proper insulation helps regulate temperature and prevents condensation, which can protect your belongings from moisture damage.
Access: Safe and Easy Entry
Ensure your loft ladder is sturdy and secure. A fitted folding ladder makes loft access quick, safe and convenient. A well-sized loft hatch also makes getting larger items in and out of the loft much easier.
Storage Containers: Keep Items Protected
Use durable, labelled containers with lids to keep your belongings organised and protected from dust and moisture. Clear plastic storage boxes can help you quickly locate stored items.
Weight Distribution: Store Items Safely
Be mindful of the weight capacity of your loft floor joists. Heavy items should be distributed evenly to prevent putting too much strain on any single area in your loft.
Transform Your Loft with Instaloft
At Instaloft, we specialise in professional loft boarding and storage solutions to help you create up to 100% more storage space and make your loft easier to access and use with our wide range of loft services:
- Raised loft boarding
- Truss Shelving
- Loft Ladders
- Loft Hatch Enlargement
- Loft Hatch Relocation
- Loft Insulation
- Loft Lining
- Loft Lighting
Let the UK’s no1 loft boarding installation company create a safe, bright, and easy-to-access storage area in your home!
Ready to make the most of your loft? Contact Instaloft today!