Summary
Loft and storage hatches
Adding insulation and draught proofing an existing loft hatch is important to ensure there isn’t a ‘weak point’ in the insulation and draughtproofing of the home.
This is important to limit the amount of warm and wet air that escapes into cold spaces (such as a cold loft, insulated at joist level). Having a well sealed loft hatch helps prevent condensation build up in lofts, roofs and other unheated spaces. If the hatch is in a bathroom or kitchen the need for a good seal to prevent warm and wet air escaping is even more important.
Skeiling
A ‘skeiling’ is the sloping ceiling at the eaves at first floor level. They are often uninsulated and must be treated to avoid the risk of surface condensation and mould forming here. It is also important that ventilation to the cold loft space is maintained.
If the house will be re-roofed then it might be possible for this work to be done from above, otherwise it must be tackled from below. Ideally this will mean removing these areas of ceiling and adding a new build up that includes insulation and full air tightness and wind tightness, while maintaining the ventilation to the loft space. A careful retrofit design including detail drawings and specification will be needed for this element to help manage risks.
Cost/difficulty
MEDIUM COST – Around £500 for loft hatch insulation and £1500-£2000 for insulating a ‘skeiling’.
LOW/MEDIUM DIFFICULTY – A loft hatch may be insulated by a homeowner with competent DIY skills or a general contractor. Skeiling insulation is more complex and will require a general contractor.
Applicability in Letchworth
Applicable – No specific requirements.
Insights from People Powered Retrofit
“If the loft hatch is small, new deeper insulation may make access more difficult. Boxing out around the hatch to hold the insulation in place may help this.”
Links to further information
- Saltaire Retrofit Handbook (2024), page 18, 22, 39
This guidance is part of Roofs, ceilings and loft spaces
See more guidance notes on this topic below: