Welcome to Ahead Loft Ladders

For most loft board installation jobs, we can be finished in 1-2 days.

Some boarding projects may take longer, if we have to carry out additional tasks such as:

• Removing old boards
• Relocation of wiring
• Widenening loft hatch
• Adding insulation
• Installing loft windows
• Clearing obstacles

It is always advisable to close your tilting roof windows when there is a risk of rain.

You may not get any water ingress during light rain if the window is only slightly open, but the best approach to maintain airflow is to use the in-built air vents.

The automatic and solar windows from Velux have the option to detect rain and automatically close.

Installation time can vary depending on a number of factors:

• The type of ladder chosen (wood/metal/electric etc.)
• How easy the attic space is to access
• The condition and position of the loft hatch
• Whether electrical connection is required

In general, with no surprises during the process, we expect a standard loft ladder installation to take around 2-3 hours.

If alterations are required to the loft hatch size or electric wiring is required, this can extend the amount of time required.

Yes, if your ladder is long enough then you can certainly use it to get into your loft space. However there a number of downsides:

• The ladder will need to be stored somewhere and retrieved every time you access the loft
• Ladders can be heavy and cumbersome to handle, risking scraping your walls and ceilings
• Regular ladders don’t always open to a suitable angle to allow comfortable use
• A ladder that isn’t long enough to fully reach the hatch could fall, leaving you trapped

For the best safety, convenience and comfort, a professionally installed loft ladder is worth the small investment.

No, you should try to retain as much ‘fluffiness’ and height as possible from your insulation.

This is because it is the air pockets between the fibres that provides the insulating barrier, not the fibre itself.

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.

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.

Automated loft ladders cost considerably more than regular unpowered models, because they include many more components and materials.

The installation procedure is also a lot more involving, with wiring, hatch adjustments and testing.

Many electric ladders are also bespoke and built to order, made specifically to fit your property.

Give us a call on 01903 649169 and we can give you advice the most suitable options.

This is the approach many DIYers will take when boarding their lofts, however it is not a great approach if you have loft insulation.

Compressing insulation directly under loft boards will remove any air gap and lead to potential damp from condensation.

Since the warmth from your house will directly meet the cold loft air, moisture can easily condense on the boards and rafters, leading to a mouldy smell.

If you use your loft primarily for storage, then a loft ladder is not a legal requirement.

However, A ladder fitted by a professional company like Ahead Loft Ladders can make loft access far easier and safer. If you intend on accessing the loft space regularly, a dedicated ladder is a worthwhile investment.

For converted lofts that are used to increase living space, a permanent fixed staircase in required under UK Building Regulations.