Advice Centre Articles — Attics

Many of the enquiries we receive relate to attics. Attics can give rise to many issues particularly in relation to insulation and water leaks. In addition, attic conversion is often the biggest construction project that a home-owner will undertake, and it is important that qualified professionals are involved during the planning and execution phases.

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Loft Insulation

I have no access to my loft void. However, I need to insulate this space, as we enter into the winter, as it is becoming quite cold. I am a bit concerned for my safety. The house was built during the 1920s and I was wondering that if I knock through this space could I expect to find the joist type loft that you would find in modern buildings in order to support my weight and for the house insulation? I am also concerned that I might encounter asbestos. Is this a possibility? 

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What do I do if ceilings contain asbestos?

I have recently been asked to look after the property of a neighbour who has been in hospital for some time. The house is an old property that was built in the 1950s or 1960s. The house was unoccupied for some time, and it appears a leak has caused the bathroom ceiling to collapse. It is a normal plaster ceiling and as I understand it there was no lagging in the attic when they moved in. I have heard this may indicate an increased likelihood that the plasterboards are made from asbestos insulating board. Is this true and how can I remedy the problem?

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Noisy internal dripping

Approx. 15 years ago I had the fireplaces removed from my mid-terrace house. Whenever it rains I can hear the sound of internal drips. There is no indication of a leak in the attic, however we have noticed damp patches are appearing on the ceilings of both rooms. What is the issue here and how can we resolve it?

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Loft bedroom is difficult to heat in winter

I recently purchased a house and was informed by the agent at the time that one of the bedrooms was a loft that had been converted. Recently, my wife and I have noticed that the room gets particularly cold during the final months of the year. The ceiling has been plasterboarded. Is there anything we can do to retain more heat?

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I have an issue with my attic when the temperature plummets. Should I change the felt on the roof, which would mean removing the tiles?

I have an issue with my attic when the temperature plummets. I upgraded the loft installation two years ago and since then have noticed water droplet build-up on the felt. I have installed ventilation tiles into the roof but the issue still persists. The last solution suggested to me was that I should change the felt on the roof, which would mean removing the tiles. Have you ever heard of this?

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Since adding insulation to our attic there is build up of water on the underside of the roof. Does the roof need replacing?

Last year we added additional insulation to our attic. The benefits of this were seen immediately. This winter, especially with low temperatures, we have noticed build-up of water on the underside of the roofing felt. We have ensured the insulation is not right up against the eves. My concern is that the roofing felt may not be breathable and may need to be replaced.