DIY Work in the Loft
Posted by Peter Brady on Wed 2nd August 2006 at 08:00 AM, Filed in Construction
Tackling a loft conversion is quite a serious undertaking and should only really be done by a professional or someone with a strong background in building. However, beyond the actual structural side there is plenty the amateur can get his hands dirty with.
For instance:
1. Laying the roof insulation.
It’s important to wear the appropriate protective clothing and mask as lagging fibres can be a nasty irritant. Aside from taking the necessary precautions, this is a very easy job.
2. Installing the floor boards.
Use floor boards with tongued and grooved edges that reduce scope for draughts. Chip board of a grade suitable for floors can be purchased which also has the appropriate draught resistant edges.
3. Creating simple partition walls.
Plasterboard can be used for lining the roof and partition walls.
4. Installing a bathroom.
This is not impossible, but the plumbing does present certain difficulties. Given that the cold water cistern is usually mounted on the floor joists, the water pressure will not be sufficient. Therefore you’re going to need a direct connection to the rising main. A pump will be required for the hot water. Building a shower presents less of a problem as they more often than not incorporate a pump.
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