Welcome to Ahead Loft Ladders

UK building regulations require loft insulation to have a total depth of 270mm for mineral wool (soft insulation). This is to ensure it achieves the recommended U-value* of 0.16 W/m²K.

High-performance insulation boards like PIR require less thickness (120-170mm) to meet the same U-value.

Insulation must not be placed right up to the eaves. Instead, leave a clear 50 mm air gap to allow adequate airflow and prevent damp retention.

*The U-value is a measure of how fast heat escapes through a part of the building. Lower numbers mean better heat retention.

For standard loft windows they are not required to be a fire escape, since the loft will not be used as a habitable room.

If you intend on getting a loft conversion in the future, the choice of Velux should be ‘top hung’ or ‘side hung’, rather than the usual centre-pivot models.

You don’t usually need to apply for planning permission to put a Velux / Skylight / Rooflight window in your loft. As long as it doesn’t protrude more than 150mm from the existing roof surface, it falls under ‘permitted development rights’.

There are exceptions for listed buildings, or those in in conservation areas, national parks or areas of outstanding natural beauty.

You should also check with Building Regulations, as this is not the same as planning permission. This will ensure it is structurally safe to add windows to your property.

Any solid boards fitted to a loft should have at least a 50mm gap above your insulation.

This prevents the material from ‘bridging’ the gap and allowing condensation to form.

We always recommend at least 18mm thickness for most loft boards. This is suitable for nearly any item up that would be stored in a loft, up to 25kg per m².

22mm boards are also available if the gaps between your joists is over 400mm.

Telescopic ladders are made of aluminium for the main tubes and steps, with a combination nylon, ABS plastic and rubber for the fittings and feet.

Concertina-style ladders are usually aluminium construction, however some heavy duty or commercial models use steel to allow for extra capacity.

For all types of high quality loft ladder, fixings and bolts should be steel.