Do you need steels in a loft conversion?
Structural integrity is key in any loft conversion, of course. Steel beams are the most commonly used within loft conversions, particularly as they offer more flexibility in terms of structure. Timber joists can be fitted to steel beams, and they are also able to span longer distances than timber beams.
Do I need drawings for a loft conversion?
Most loft conversion drawings don’t require Planning Permission these days. However, it is still extremely likely that you will need some form of Architectural Drawings. Your Architect will certainly not be offering the cheapest plans and they will certainly not be offering the fastest drawings.
How thick should joists be for loft conversion?
These joists (often 200mm or 225mm in depth) will rise above the tops of the current ceiling joists to form the floor structure. Depending on their span they will bear either directly on to the existing wall plates of external and internal load-bearing walls, or on to newly installed beams.
Where do steel beams go in loft conversion?
Loft conversion steel beams are used to take the extra load of the build. Beams are typically installed to run from side to side of a property to the other, such as from one party wall to another.
How do I strengthen my floor for my loft conversion?
How to Reinforce an Attic Floor with Sister Joists
- Clear the Joist Spaces. Pull out all insulation and any debris from all of the joist spaces so you can see the full length of each joist, including where it meets the exterior walls.
- Measure the Old Joists.
- Cut the Sister Joists.
- Install the Sister Joists.
- Install Blocking.
What does an RSJ sit on?
It has to be sitting on a strong concrete block to distribute the weight uniformly. Any quote to install an RSJ should include calculations done by a structural engineer.
Can I do my own loft conversion?
Most loft conversions don’t require a planning permit. You are required to obtain permission if your loft design will alter your roof space. Nevertheless, you cannot leave matters to chance; hence, check with your local council or planning officer to know whether you require a planning permit.
What height should a loft conversion be?
2.2m
Measure the head height. The minimum height you need for a loft conversion is 2.2m, and you can easily measure this yourself. Take a tape measure and run it from the floor to the ceiling at the tallest part of the room. If it’s 2.2m or more, your loft should be tall enough to convert.
What is a Velux loft conversion?
What is a Velux loft conversion? A Velux Loft conversion is when the shape of the existing roof is retained and Velux windows are installed into the rafters, the rafters will have to be cut depending on the size of the new windows, the inside of the roof space is fitted out to a carefully thought out design.
How are steel beams used in loft conversions?
Structural Calculations for Loft Conversions – Steel Beam & Beam Bearing/Pad Stone Calculations In all but a very few cases, steel beams are required to carry the new floor where load-bearing walls are not available. In addition to this requirement, the new steel beams afford the modified roof support via eaves partitions.
What should be included in a loft conversion pack?
Our loft conversion pack will include all the steel beams required to support the new/modified structure, using our specific formula for beam calculations for loft extensions. In certain cases where load-bearing walls are available, it is sometimes possible to utilise these walls to support the new timber floors.
What is the deflection limit for a loft?
This ensures the safety of your new structure. All of our structural timber elements have deflection limited to 14mm maximum to control cracking of brittle finishes, another necessity addressed in your pack. Structural Calculations for Loft Conversions – Steel Beam & Beam Bearing/Pad Stone Calculations
Do you need to double the joists for a loft?
It is standard building practice, and a building regulation requirement, that joists supporting partitions and baths are doubled. This information is all contained in your essential loft conversion structural pack, including your beam calculations for loft extensions.