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myLoft Legs Installation Cost
At a Glance
- The average cost of installing loft legs is around £1,200.
- The job will take approximately 1 to 2 days to complete.
- A complete pricing breakdown which includes things you need to consider, along with what such a task usually involves.
- How long the job should approximately take and a general overview of what types of services can be performed.
- How to find and hire a local loft boarding specialist.
What can you expect to pay when installing new loft legs or stilts?
To give you an idea of what kind of overall cost to expect on average, you'll likely pay around £1,200.
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£1,200
Table of Contents
How Much Does It Cost to Install Loft Legs?
Boarding your loft space is a great way to add a bit of extra storage space.
However, modern insulation standards in the UK mean that the insulation is often deeper than the joists. And because you don't want to compress the insulation (as that would compromise its effectiveness), you'll need to install loft legs so that there's space between the insulation and the boards.
Installing loft legs increases how much loft boarding costs in 2025, but it's an essential step. If you don't use them, you might be reducing the energy efficiency of your home — which translates into higher heating bills.
Why do you need loft legs for boarding over a loft? Can't I just lay boards over the joists?
"The point of loft legs is to protect the loft insulation being flattened by the boards, that is providing you have loft insulation thus limiting its insulation qualities.
To be compliant with today's building regulations, you'd usually have 300mm of loft roll insulation comprising of two layers: 150mm between the joists and the second layer laid at right angles to the first layer. Loft legs are designed to bridge the thickness of the insulation and protect its integrity."
To be compliant with today's building regulations, you'd usually have 300mm of loft roll insulation comprising of two layers: 150mm between the joists and the second layer laid at right angles to the first layer. Loft legs are designed to bridge the thickness of the insulation and protect its integrity."
Loft legs (or stilts) serve the purpose of raising the loft level. However, they can also serve the general purpose of levelling. Depending on how sturdy the loft area is, if the foundation is even or if there are other areas of detraction which should be dealt with, the installation of loft legs or stilts is quite simple.
The actual installation of stilts simply requires the purchase of the stilts or legs. You will simply place the legs between the boards and loft flooring to help with proper insulation flow. Depending on the type of loft board, the number of loft legs required will vary for each project.
Once measured, you will simply need an electric screwdriver so you can affix the loft legs into place onto the structure where it is being installed. There is no need to use heavy-duty or power-driven equipment. In many instances, if the foundation and structure are level, you might be able to do this simple task on your own over the weekend.
Once installed and drilled into place, you will simply cover the loft stilt or legs with insulation material and replace the panels on the ceiling. This type of project is one most homeowners can tackle on their own or can always hire a local tradesperson to do the job as well.
Loft Legs Prices
| Job Description (Semi-Detached) | Duration | Material Cost | Labour Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Partially Board Using Chipboard and Install Loft Legs | 4 – 8 Hours | £120 | £100 |
| Board The Whole Loft Using Chipboard and Install Loft Legs | 1 Day | £350 | £250 |
| Partially Board Using Chipboard and Install Loft Legs and Insulation | 1 Day | £270 | £180 |
| Board The Whole Loft Using Chipboard and Install Loft Legs and Insulation | 1.5 Days | £800 | £450 |
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Things to Consider if you are Installing Stilt Legs
Of course, you always want to consider the size of the space. If you have an enormous loft, or if it is not level, you might want to hire a tradesperson to assess the space.
Even if you eventually end up doing the work yourself, you can always get a better understanding of the type of work and time commitment which goes into this project.
Also, bear in mind the cost of supplies. Sure, you will hire a tradesperson and pay them by the hour. But, if you don’t properly fit the space, measure the areas, and buy the wrong-sized stilts or equipment/material, this can end up costing you just as much, if not more than, what you would pay to hire a specialist from the onset.
We are looking at laying boards down in attic for storage space. The insulation is really thick though and comes up higher than the joists so I don’t know how to proceed. What would be the best way to install loft boards over insulation, so they don’t push the insulation down? Do I need legs/stilts for the boards?
"Loft legs that fix onto the joists allow for your insulation in the loft, which should be nice and thick to keep the heat in. Then boards can be laid and fit on top of the legs. They do need to be fixed though, as the boards will slide about if not."
Consider the time as well. It might seem like a simple job, but once you discover the foundation is not level, or there are patches where insulation is missing, the 1-day job, quickly becomes a 1-week job. And, this is something most homeowners simply can’t dedicate to doing themselves.
Ultimately, you have to understand what the job entails. Not only cost-wise but also time, commitment, hard work, and other variables. From there, you will find it easier to determine if it is better to hire a professional, or for you to attempt a DIY project.
Can You Install Loft Legs Yourself?
A DIY job is one many homeowners can tackle with installation of loft legs. If you wish to do this job yourself, it is important to ensure you have the equipment, time, and proper understanding of placement.
If you do, this is a much easier home project than most other installation projects. It won’t take too much time, and if you understand spacing and proper sizing of the legs, it is a job even a novice can complete.
For those who aren’t too handy or haven’t done similar projects, you might choose the latter and hire a professional. If this is the route you choose, make sure you compare several contractors. Compare their work, reputation, the time they’ve been working on these projects, and other variables.
Compare costs. Not only for supplies and materials, but also for the contractor you eventually choose to hire. Only by shopping and comparison are you going to find the best deal.
And, when you do compare several professionals prior to hiring one, you are far more likely to hire the right/best person or team, than if you simply choose to hire the first person who visits your home.
What type of boards do I need to board over a loft for storage?
"Best to use Chipboard Flooring 2400x600x18mm Moisture Resistant P5 Tongue & Grooved 4 sides."
Hiring a Licensed Specialist for Loft Leg Installation
- Determine if this is a DIY project or one you should hire a specialist for.
- Understand duration, type of materials required and other aspects surrounding the installation.
- Consider buying materials rather than letting a trade.
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FAQs
Is installing loft legs a DIY-friendly job?
As is the case with any installation project, it depends. With the loft, you are dealing with insulation, levelling, and performing drilling and movement work. So, for some, it might be easier than it is for others.
Why would I need to install loft legs?
In the event the loft is dipping or isn't level, or if there are noticeable issues with insulation, it is a job you should perform quickly.
In addition to improving airflow/temperature in the loft and home, properly insulated spaces will also help save on your utility bills and costs.
In addition to improving airflow/temperature in the loft and home, properly insulated spaces will also help save on your utility bills and costs.
Are all stilt legs the same?
No, the sizes vary greatly, as do material finish and quality. Of course, the size of your loft will have an impact on the size, and type of legs you choose to use when installing loft legs or stilts in your home.
Sources
https://prestonloftaccess.co.uk/all-about-lofts
https://www.frank-key.co.uk/guides/maximize-your-vertical-space-a-step-by-step-guide-to-installing-loft-boards-and-stilts
https://www.diydoctor.org.uk/projects/loftstorage.htm
