Loft conversions are a fantastic way to increase your living space and add value to your home.

As with any construction project, loft conversions must be built from the ground up, starting with a high-quality, durable floor.

However, not every type of flooring is suitable for a loft, especially when it comes to hardwood. There are also lots of things besides just the look of the flooring you have to consider. That’s why we’ve compiled this guide to choosing the perfect wood flooring for your loft conversion project.

Got a wood flooring question? Please email us at info@martinallen.co.uk or call us at 01162 165 107.

Why convert your loft?

Attics are usually unsightly and often underused storage spaces tucked away beneath the home’s roof. Although they can come in handy as impromptu storage spaces for unwanted bulky items, empty attic spaces lower a home’s value.

Depending on various factors, including your attic size, a loft conversion project can start at around £15,000. But don’t let this quote deter you from starting this project – adding a single bedroom with an ensuite bathroom increases the value of your property by a whopping 20%. Research by the Nationwide Building Society said:

“loft conversion can add more than £42,000” and

“Homeowners who add a loft conversion or extension incorporating a double bedroom and a bathroom can add more than 20% to the value of a three-bedroom, one-bathroom house.”

Source: The Guardian.

Considering the added space and value, a loft conversion project is a profitable endeavour in the long run.

Before you start

When transforming your loft into a cosy haven, the decision on wood flooring should not be taken lightly. Imagine yourself walking on a path where every step matters; that’s exactly how important it is to make the right choice.

Height Considerations

Height is the cornerstone of any loft conversion. In the often cramped and narrow spaces of lofts, every millimetre counts. Solid wood flooring, though popular, isn’t always feasible due to its thickness and the additional height it adds. Just think about it:

• Reduced Headroom: Every extra millimetre can make the ceiling feel lower.
• Cramped Feel: The more height you add, the more confined the room seems.
• Furniture Fit: Taller flooring can affect how furniture fits in the space.
• Rug Dilemma: A rug can further elevate the floor, compounding the issue.

Why engineered wood?

Choosing engineered wood is like finding a steady anchor in a stormy sea, perfect for rooms where temperature fluctuations can warp and damage solid wood.

As the name suggests, solid wood flooring comes from a single, solid cut of timber. In contrast, engineered wood flooring is crafted by compressing multiple layers of wood and fusing them, resulting in a harder, sturdier, and more durable board.

Benefits of engineered wood include:

• Resistance to heat and moisture, ensuring stability even with DIY installation.
• Versatility in finishes, offering classic oak, walnut, or mahogany options.
• Varied thickness choices are available on 12, 15, or 20mm boards.

Engineered wood flooring boasts the same quality and soundproofing capabilities as solid wood, with the added advantages of heat resistance and an easy installation process.

For a deeper dive, our “8 Benefits of Engineered Wood Flooring” post discusses all the pros and cons. At Martin Allen Flooring Fitters, we welcome you to join our community of satisfied customers who have found their perfect flooring solution.

Peace of Mind Through Safety

Embarking on a loft conversion project is an exciting journey, but navigating the waters of building regulations with ease is crucial to guarantee your sanctuary remains a haven. The complexity of these regulations can vary based on the unique traits of your property and the scale of your project, but fear not—safety is a language we all speak fluently.

Regardless of the scope or style of your project, certain safety standards are non-negotiable. Here’s a glimpse into what you need to know:

• Fire Resistance: Upper-storey floors, stairs, and doors must withstand fire for at least 30 minutes.
• Expert Compliance: Our engineered wood boards at Martin Allen exceed industry fire resistance standards.
• Holistic Safety: Adhering to these guidelines ensures your loft is not just beautiful, but also a safe retreat.
• Community Assurance: Knowing these measures are in place provides peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

By abiding by these stringent safety regulations, you’re not just building a loft but cementing a legacy of security and peace for your family.

Discover the Joy of DIY: Engineered Wood Flooring

Sometimes, the best things happen by pure coincidence. Imagine this: If you decide to tackle a home improvement project, the solution practically falls into your lap. Engineered wood flooring boards, with their pre-cut tongues and grooves, offer just that—an almost magical ease of installation. It feels like destiny, aligning perfectly with your knack for DIY projects.

Why You’ll Love Engineered Wood Flooring:

1. Effortless Installation: These boards are designed for a fast and easy fit. Pre-cut tongues and grooves mean you won’t need a skilled fitter. It’s almost like they were made just for you, ensuring a smooth, satisfying installation process.
2. Perfect for Low-Traffic Areas: Even if your first attempt isn’t perfect, the beauty of engineered wood flooring is that many people won’t notice the imperfections. Low-foot traffic areas are ideal for showcasing your handiwork without the pressure of constant scrutiny.
3. Enhanced Comfort and Safety: To add a layer of comfort and safety, consider glueing the boards to soundproof matting. This small step can make a big difference, creating a quieter and more secure environment for everyone in your home.

Embarking on a DIY flooring project with engineered wood feels like joining a community of like-minded enthusiasts who value craftsmanship and practicality. It’s your chance to create a space that not only looks beautiful but also resonates with the warmth of personal effort and care. So, pick up those tools and get started—your perfect floor is just a coincidence away!

However, if you are looking to rent the room out and want the best possible finish or done within a strict time frame, then contact a professional wood floor fitter.

Our loft conversion projects

Loft conversion in London, Fitzalan Road, North London

For this project, we used French smoked oak. In the loft, to minimise the impact on the overall height of the floor, this project required using a 10mm battening system that was pinned and glued straight to the subfloor. Read more about this project.

Conclusion

Whether you need extra space or want to add value to your home, a loft conversion project is always a welcome addition to any property.

To ensure you meet your budget and use only the highest-quality and most durable materials in your loft conversion project, email us at office@martinallen.co.uk or call us at 01162 165 107 to get a free on-site quote.