Top 5 tips for creating the perfect storage space
Posted on 16th January 2019 at 16:18
Here at The Loft Access Company, we have seen every type of loft you can imagine - from messy to dusty to damp, we've seen it all and worse! If you are looking for inspiration or help about how to spruce up your loft space, read our top tips on how to effectively use your loft for storage.
Please visit our Loft Services page for more information on all the products and services listed here!
Tip #1: Access
Simply put, ensuring easy and safe access into the loft space is one of the most important upgrades you can make to your loft. There are a multitude of different ladders available, all with different purposes and configurations, so it is important to make sure that you are getting the most suitable ladder for your home.
It is often the case that adjustments have to be made to the loft hatch when installing a new loft ladder. Generally, this is a good thing as many hatches are too small or are placed awkwardly. By relocating or resizing your loft hatch, you can also create an access point that is much more practical.
Why is access the number one storage tip though? We get so many calls from people wanting to replace their existing loft access because there has been an accident. Whether its an existing ladder or just a rickety foot stool from the garage, we are always much happier to replace your access with a correctly installed ladder unit - before an accident rather than after!
Tip #2: Boarding
Having your loft space boarded properly is one of the most beneficial storage solutions. Being able to safely store your belonging across the loft space means that you will have more space in your living areas, and give you peace of mind that your items are stored safely.
The benefits go beyond simply being able to access the loft in its entirety. Loft boarding (and a fixed access ladder) is a legal requirement when intending move your boiler into the loft space, which will ultimately give you a lot more space within your main cupboard areas.
Priced by the square meter, boarding done in the correct manner can also add up to three thousand pounds of value to your home.
Tip #3: Stowaway Trays
One of our newest products is the fantastic stowaway tray.
This item is perfect for storing items beneath the eaves in your loft space. This timber tray sits upon aluminium runners that are placed on the timber structures, and can be pulled back and forth via an operation pole.
This product can be installed into lofts both boarded or un-boarded, and will free up the valuable space in the centre of your loft needed for both access and regularly used household items.
Tip #4: Lighting
The most basic item a loft should have is efficient lighting. Crucial for you own safety whilst in the loft space, even the most basic lighting such as a pendant light can improve visibility.
Alternatively, Recessed Lighting (also known as Spotlights) options are available. More commonly used in converted lofts, recessed lighting can also be very beneficial in lofts primarily used for storage as they provide clean light throughout the loft.
Tip #5: Part Loft Conversion
Whilst our first four tips are ideas on how to improve you current loft into sufficient storage areas, our final tip is about converting your loft into what is referred to as a 'non-habitable living area'. This is essentially an extra room within your home, suitable for uses including a children's playroom, home office or home cinema.
Part loft conversions do not require all the planning permissions and structural designs that the full loft conversions need, and be accessed via a high quality loft ladder (rather than a staircase). Whilst a part loft can not be described an an extra bedroom when the home is on the market, a lot of value can be added to the property with this type of project.
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