Above, I held the longest side of the loft hatch kit's opening against some structural timber to copy the length and cut with a hand saw*. I made two of these cuts.

Also, loft hatches and ladders can be a minefield. Particularly if you've never created your own loft access before, unlike my Dad. So, here, I'm going to show you what I learned while fitting loft hatch ladders. Tools and Equipment We Used We then took the loft hatch frame to where we'd cut and trimmed any protrusions before making even, resting above the fascia. After drawing around our loft hatch template, I drilled a hole to slot my jigsaw in. Then cut along my pen lines. After taking the loft hatch support to the hole we created, we first needed to prop it with timber as it was hanging from the UPVC fascia.Building firms and architects may steer you towards their own idea for the layout. While their experience is undoubtedly valuable, it's your home and you know what works best for your needs, so don't be afraid to add your own ideas at the planning stage. So, we had to open out, but have the excess folding behind the opening to allow us to open them fully. In new properties Part L requires the overall U value of the loft is 0.35 W/m2K. Most of our loft hatch range meet or exceed this with some models having U values of 0.25 and even 0.15 (lower is better). U Value explained Also, this may be different if you live in a listed building. But, one thing is certain, you must comply with building regulations. And, where you do cut access for your ceiling hatch, support replacements must be put in place. How to Build a Loft Hatch

I then ensured it was flush with the bottom of the UPVC fascia cladding and screwed in the middle. Tip: By adding a screw in the middle, it allowed me to get level from either side easier. Here in the UK, there a few different types of loft ladders are on the market, similar to ours, which is a wooden folding loft ladder. More space saving stair options are:Before cutting, it's vital that you know whether there are cables or pipes above. Also, whether you are about to cut into a structural timber. If in doubt, seek a professional.

After drawing around the template, I drilled a hole to slot the jigsaw through and cut the UPVC cladding. Will you be decorating it yourself or hiring someone in and will you need someone to tile a bathroom? These are important factors to consider when planning your completion date. Keep your neighbours on sideMade-to-Measure Loft Hatches:When standard sizes don't fit, our made-to-measure loft hatches come to the rescue. These hatches can be customized to the precise dimensions of your loft opening, ensuring a perfect fit. You can choose between non fire-rated or fire-rated hatches to create a bespoke solution that meets your exact needs. As we're installing a 2nd timber loft hatch, but to another section of the attic, my Dad was able to go up their and cut through the remaining wood. To continue fitting the loft hatch and ladder, it was then a matter of following the instructions, starting with attaching the loft access door. Hanging the Wooden Loft Ladders to the Hatch

If you are staying elsewhere while your loft conversion is completed, you should tell your insurer about this, and try to give several weeks’ notice. Part L of the Building Regulations govern conservation of fuel and power or put another way, energy efficiency. As heat rises, in an uninsulated property 25% is lost through the roof. Insulating the loft helps reduce this but as the loft hatch is a similar area to a window it is important not to underestimate the role a well insulated and draught proofed loft hatch plays. It is pointless having a well insulated loft and a poorly performing loft hatch. It was quite embarrassing in front of my Dad as I've used a hand saw for years, but we all learn from our DIY mistakes! Ensuring You Have a Perfectly Square Loft Hatch Hinged Loft Hatches:For easy access, our hinged loft hatches are a popular option. These hatches feature a hinged door that can be opened and closed effortlessly, allowing convenient entry to your loft space. You can choose from a range of materials and finishes, including metal or plastic frames, to match your aesthetic preferences. We understand the importance of having a well-designed loft hatch for easy access to your loft space, while also ensuring insulation and energy efficiency in your home. That's why we offer a diverse selection of high-quality loft hatches to meet your needs.Finding your ideal loft hatch has never been easier!Depending on when it was built, your home will either have roof trusses or rafters. By looking through your loft hatch, you should be able to tell straight away what type of roof you have. The answer to this is “it depends”, but potentially yes. The reason it depends is because there are numerous factors to take into account. To simplify things as much as possible here are three scenarios which may help you decide. Usually, a shell conversion involves completing all structural timber work, creating a watertight internal loft space, fitting windows and doors, chipboard flooring, a staircase and any internal stud walls. Velux If you have rafters, as opposed to roof trusses (see below), your loft should be easier to convert. Roof trusses