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Let The Doctor Solve Your.
DIY Dilemmas: This Week: “Going Through The Roof “ |
As the property market this year is set to continue on it's upwards spiral and again will break more records. This feature will continue in this same vain so if you are selling or buying a Property this year please read on. Why not add value to your property that should be the mantra for all DIY-ers both professional and novice alike.
Your Attic
Do you only use your attic space for storing the Christmas decorations, old boxes and bric-a-brac? Why not consider the following DIY project; nearly all attics can be converted into often a much needed storage space or in other cases are converted into an extra living space or bedroom. This wasted space is usually available right above you head?
The fact is your attic can represent a very large proportion of unused space in your home. So in this issue we suggest how you can make good use of this otherwise wasted area. This total area may represent up to 30% or more of the total floor area of your house.
Let's Take a Look
Lets first look at what would be required as a simple DIY improvement to convert the attic for extra storage space. Your requirements may only be the provision of an enlarged trap door and a simple type extendable ladder as a means of easy access.
Tip
Lay temporary flooring across the attic joists on which you can walk and prevent you from putting your foot down through the ceiling below. You may also require a form of lighting arrangement by means of an electrical extension lead and light. Unless your attic already has a light fitted.
Flooring your Attic
If you take a look in your attic and all you will see exposed timber joists and the cold water storage tank. Next you will need to lay down good grade flooring before you can use this space for storage. I would recommend that you either cut convenient sized flooring that will fit through the attic opening. Alternatively have the flooring cut at the local timber merchants. They will also recommend to you the correct grading of flooring and fixings required.
Ladder Types
Most attic ladders sold today are usually made are either wood or aluminum. They can also range in design from a simple sliding type or the more expensive hinge and pivot wooden type designs. They are made in a variety of lengths to suit all heights remember to measure from the floor to top of the attic joists.
Sliding Type
The sliding ladder is by far the simplest to install and is lowered by means of a pole hooked over a catch on the bottom rung. It has two or three sections, with spring locking catches to hold it in the fully extended or closed position. Some are fitted with a spring, which prevents the ladder from dropping down under its own weight and this also makes it easier to raise the ladder back into the attic when required.
Pivoting Type
Most ladder manufacturer will specify the size of enlarged opening required and the pivoting height required for this type of installation. Take care to measure up in the attic space and between your joists before purchasing the ladder. A word of caution when fitting this type of pivoting type ladder a completely new opening position may be required.
Enlarging Trap Door
If you installation requires you to enlarge your existing trap door you will probably have to cut a way part of the timber joist. This is part of the roof structure and should not be done without due care and consideration. At this stage if you have any doubt about weakening the roof structure, check with a professional it will help to make the project run smoothly and safely.
Insulation
Because heat rises, much of the heat in your home goes straight through the roof. Now is the opportunity to check your current insulation and save money on your heating costs by adding more insulation if required to your attic. Otherwise up to one quarter of your heat could be lost through the roof. Check that all plumbing pipe-work and storage tank in the attic are also insulated to prevent freezing.
Electrical
If you are required to re-route any electric wires or cables before flooring your attic. Be advised never ever cut any timber attic joists for wires or cables as you will only serve to weaken the roof structure. Call in a professional electrician to do this work for you and give yourself peace of mind. While the electrician is in your home ask him to fit a light for the new storage space.
Plumbing
Before you start laying down the new flooring always check that no plumbing pipes will be damaged when drilling or screwing the flooring. You may not to be able to see or remember the exact position of the plumbing pipes as they may run between joists. In this case as you lay the flooring mark on top of the surface with a large marker all pipe-work positions.
Doctors Advise
Here's hoping that you are all keeping safe, and before you ever start any DIY project, make sure you plan ahead and have anticipated all the safety issues. Since every project will be different, draw up your own comprehensive safety list and keep adding to it.
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