i-build
Insulation: Phil Rigby, Product Manager at Knauf Insulation, explains what to consider when installing insulation in roofs at ceiling level.
Care & Maintenance: The double dormer: Of Quartz You Can Here, Simply Loft has provided an expansive loft conversion creating two new double bedrooms, each with an en-suite bathroom. Acurate use of the apex roof allowed Simply Loft to also incorporate a snug screening room on the client’s request. A bank of four skylights bathe the snug area in natural light while rows of spotlights, embedded into the floor panels, illuminate the space at night. www.simplyloft.co.uk
It is possible to achieve very high levels of insulation in pitched roofs, where the insulation is positioned at ceiling level, as the thickness is largely unrestricted by construction considerations. When insulation is installed in roofs at ceiling level, there is a risk that condensation will form on the cold side of the insulation in the loft space. Condensation is most likely to occur when warm, moisture-laden air (water vapour) is able to pass through to the cold loft space, but is prevented from dissipating to the atmosphere by the roof structure.
There are a couple of key steps that can be taken to prevent condensation: Restrict the passage of warm air and water vapour by ensuring that the ceiling is well sealed. Ensure the loft space is sufficiently well ventilated at the eaves or roof ridge to allow water vapour to disperse through its structure and dispel into the atmosphere. Once one of the above factors, or both, has been completed, the first bottom layer of loft roll, such as Earthwool loft roll, should be laid tightly in between and to the same depth of the ceiling joists (usually 100mm) and overlaid at right angles with a thicker top layer or layers, with all edges tightly butted. This helps to minimise thermal bridging through the ceiling joists and guarantees compliance with Building Regulations. www.knaufinsulation.co.uk
Bright and spacious Converting a loft is one of the easiest ways to increase floor space in a property. However, one of the main challenges of a loft conversion is ensuring it looks spacious, light and bright. Here, VELUX offers some top-tips for brightening up a loft space with windows.
Top-hung roof windows are perfect for lofts, where low, sloping ceilings can make a room appear smaller and darker. Installing roof windows, particularly ones that are top-hung operated, can dramatically increase the flow of daylight into the loft space and really brighten the room. For example, VELUX top-hung roof windows can be installed on a roof pitch of between 15 and 55º and open to a 45º angle, allowing for the maximum flow of fresh air into a property. These windows open outwards offering more headroom and uninterrupted views. To increase the brightness within your loft for a more modern living space, VELUX recommends a white painted finish. This allows for even more light to be reflected into the loft you’re converting and is a perfect match to a contemporary interior. www.velux.co.uk
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