How Much Does Loft Boarding Cost in the UK? A Complete Price Guide
Loft boarding is an affordable and effective way to maximise the space in your home, offering both valuable storage and increased property value. But before you embark on this project, it’s important to understand how much loft boarding will cost in the UK to ensure it fits within your budget.
In this guide, we break down the average costs of loft boarding, the factors that influence the price, and tips to help you get the best deal. Read on to find out how much you can expect to pay for loft boarding installation and make an informed decision for your home.
What Affects the Cost of Loft Boarding in the UK? Key Factors Explained
The Size of the Loft Area You Want to Board
The cost of boarding your loft will depend on the size of the area you wish to cover. The larger the space, the higher the cost. The good news is that loft boarding is flexible—you don’t have to board the entire loft. Many loft boarding kits are modular, meaning you can start by boarding just the sections you need and expand as your storage needs grow.
The Type of Loft Board Material
There are various types of loft boarding materials available, each with different price points. Chipboard is the most commonly used material, but other options offer more benefits, such as environmentally friendly, lightweight, or higher-quality finishes. Prices typically range from £3 to £10 per 1220x300x18mm panel, depending on the material you choose. Higher-end options often provide greater durability and a more attractive finish.
Raised or Standard Loft Boarding Systems
Raised loft boarding involves installing boards above the insulation using a subframe system, which is more expensive than standard loft boarding. Raised systems start at around £80 for a basic kit and can go up to £800 or more for larger kits. Alternatively, standard loft boards are directly screwed into the floor joists and tend to be cheaper. However, raised boards help your insulation work more efficiently, which can reduce energy bills over time, making them a good long-term investment.
DIY vs Professional Loft Boarding Installation
You can save on installation costs by opting for a DIY loft boarding project, but keep in mind that proper installation is essential for safety and durability. Hiring a professional loft board installer can give you peace of mind, knowing the installation is done to the highest standard and can support the weight of people accessing the loft. Professionals also offer bespoke services that include additional features such as ladders and lighting.
Why Choose Raised Loft Boarding Over Standard Boarding? Key Benefits Explained
When it comes to loft boarding, opting for a raised loft boarding system can offer significant advantages over standard loft boarding, particularly in terms of energy efficiency, protection of insulation, and long-term value.
1. Protects Your Loft Insulation
While standard loft boarding may seem like a quick and easy solution, it can pose risks if your loft contains insulation, wiring, or pipework. Installing standard boards can damage or compress insulation, reducing its effectiveness. In contrast, a raised loft boarding system elevates the boards above the joists, providing enough space for the recommended 200mm depth of loft insulation. This ensures the insulation remains intact, allowing it to continue effectively reducing heat loss in your home and saving you money on your energy bills.
2. Maintains Your Home’s Thermal Efficiency
A key benefit of raised loft boarding is that it prevents your insulation from becoming compressed, which can lead to damp, mould, and rot issues that are not only costly to repair but can affect your home’s overall health. Some loft boarding installers may even remove the insulation entirely to fit standard boards, which greatly reduces your loft’s thermal efficiency. Raised systems, such as LoftZone’s StoreFloor, ensure that your insulation stays intact and performs at its best, protecting your home from unnecessary energy loss.
3. Enhanced Durability and Safety
The raised loft boarding systems we use at Instaloft are built to last. The structure consists of high-quality, engineering-grade recycled plastic supports that are both tri- and uni-directional. These supports connect to a robust cross beam that creates a stable platform for the boards. This structure not only helps maintain the integrity of your insulation but also ensures a safe and sturdy floor that meets the British Standard for minimum floor load requirements. The supports can handle up to 500kg per square metre, making it a reliable solution for long-term use.
4. Long-Term Cost Savings
While the upfront cost of a raised loft boarding system may be higher than standard boarding, it offers excellent value in the long run. By preserving your insulation and improving your home’s energy efficiency, a raised loft system can help you save on energy bills over time. Additionally, it provides more space for storage without compromising the integrity of your property, making it a cost-effective investment in the future.
Get Your Free Loft Boarding Installation Quote Today
If you’re ready to transform your loft into a functional, energy-efficient space, Instaloft is here to help. Get in touch with us today for a free, no-obligation loft boarding installation quote. Whether you’re interested in raised loft boarding or standard loft boarding, our expert team will provide you with a tailored solution to suit your needs and budget.
Call us now on 0800 046 3955 or reach out to us online to discuss your loft boarding project and get your loft transformed today. Don’t wait, let us help you make the most of your home’s potential with our expert loft boarding installation services.