28 Common Questions About Loft Legs – Answered
- Matthew Driver
- Jul 10
- 5 min read
If you're thinking about boarding your loft, you've probably come across Loft LegsTM — a simple but clever solution that raises the loft floor above your insulation. But what exactly are they? How do they work? And are they right for your home?In this post, we answer the most frequently asked questions about Loft Legs to help you decide if they're the right choice for your loft storage project.
What Are Loft Legs?
📦What are Loft Legs?
Loft Legs are ultra strong plastic supports designed to raise loft boards above the insulation layer, preventing compression and maintaining energy efficiency. Developed in 2012 they have become the industry standard raised boarding solution with over 5 million sold in the UK alone.
What are Loft Legs made of?
They’re manufactured from high-strength recycled polypropylene, designed to withstand significant loads while being lightweight and easy to install.
How do Loft Legs work?
Loft Legs are fixed to your ceiling joists and act as stilts for your loft boards, lifting them above the insulation while creating a safe, elevated storage platform.
What is the height of a Loft Leg?
A standard Loft Leg raises the loft floor by 175mm, which is suitable for 100mm joists plus 170mm of insulation (total of 270mm of insulation). The Loft Leg XL is 300mm high, designed for extra-deep insulation (up to a total of 400mm of insulation).
Are Loft Legs strong enough to walk on?
Yes. When installed correctly with loft boards, they are designed to support typical storage and maintenance loads, including foot traffic.
🏠 Installing Loft Legs
How do you install Loft Legs?
Screw them directly into the ceiling joists using wood screws, spaced evenly no more than 600mm centre to centre (typically one Loft Leg on every joist that a board covers, and then Loft Legs along the joist to support where the boards meet).
If the boards are 600mm wide and the joist centres are at 600mm then the Loft Legs will be installed in a 600mm x 600mm grid.
If the boards are 320mm wide and the joist centres are at 400mm then the Loft Legs will be installed in a 320mm x 400mm grid.
Can I install Loft Legs myself?
Yes. They’re ideal for a DIY project. Basic tools like a drill, measuring tape, and screws are all you need. There are movies here, and instructions here to enable you to complete the job yourself. If you don’t think you are capable of DIY then there is a list of recommended installers here.
How many Loft Legs do I need?
The number of Loft Legs you need depends on the centres of your joists/trusses and the size of the boards you are using. There is a handy calculator here, or give us a call on 01282 861001 and we will do all the calculating for you.
What screws should I use?
Standard wood screws around 4–5mm in diameter and 30–40mm in length are usually suitable. Recommended screws are:
Wickes:
Screwfix:
Toolstation:
Always make sure they are long enough to secure through the Loft Leg into the joist or through the chipboard into the top platform of the Loft Leg.
Do Loft Legs sit on insulation or joists?
They must be fixed directly to the joists, not the insulation. This ensures structural integrity and even weight distribution.
🌡️ Insulation & Energy Efficiency
Can I use Loft Legs over insulation?
Yes—this is exactly what they’re designed for. They allow insulation to remain uncompressed while still enabling boarding above it.
Will Loft Legs compress my loft insulation?
No. They elevate the boards above the insulation, ensuring its thermal performance isn’t compromised.
Do Loft Legs help maintain energy efficiency?
Absolutely. They help maintain the full depth and performance of your loft insulation by preventing squashing under boards or storage items.
📏 Compatibility
Can Loft Legs be used on all types of joists?
They’re suitable for most timber joists, including trussed roofs and traditional ceiling joists. For non-standard structures, check with the manufacturer or a professional installer.
Are Loft Legs suitable for new-build properties?
Yes, especially as new-builds often have deeper insulation that requires an elevated boarding solution. The Loft Leg XL has been designed specifically for new build homes with very deep insulation.
Do Loft Legs invalidate your new build warranty (eg. NHBC Warranty)?
No, if installed correctly, Loft Legs will not invalidate your new build warranty.
Do Loft Legs work with rigid board or spray foam insulation?
They’re primarily designed for use over quilt/roll insulation. For rigid board or spray foam, consult an installer as additional considerations may apply.
🧰 Structural & Safety
Are Loft Legs Building Regulations compliant?
Loft Legs themselves don't require approval, but your loft structure must be able to handle the load. Always check compliance if you’re planning extensive storage or installing heavy equipment.
Will Loft Legs affect the structural integrity of my ceiling?
Not if installed properly. They’re designed to distribute weight evenly. Still, check your joist load capacity if you're planning heavy storage.
How much weight can Loft Legs support?
Each Loft Leg can support up to 500kg per m² when correctly installed with boarding, well within typical domestic storage requirements. However, the underlying roof structure will not be changed so do not overload the loft. For most modern homes the recommended maximum loading for a loft is 25Kg/m2 of storage plus the weight of an adult moving around in the loft.
Can I use Loft Legs for a habitable loft conversion?
No. They’re intended for storage areas only. Converting a loft into a living space requires full compliance with Building Regulations and structural changes.
📦 Product Comparisons
What’s the difference between Loft Leg and Loft Leg XL?
The standard Loft Leg (175mm) is suitable for up to 270mm of insulation (joist + quilt). The XL version (300mm) is for deeper insulation that can be up to 400mm.
How do Loft Legs compare to timber risers or battens?
Unlike timber, Loft Legs are purpose-designed, lightweight, will not decay, and are quick to install. They have also been extensively tested in independent test laboratories to ensure they are fit for purpose.
Are there any alternatives to Loft Legs?
Alternatives include timber battens, frame kits, or other plastic loft supports. However, Loft Legs are the most widely used and most trusted options in the UK.
Can I raise a loft floor without using Loft Legs?
You can, using timber or structural boarding systems, but these are often more expensive, labour intensive, and may compromise insulation or joist capacity.
💸 Cost & Availability
How much do Loft Legs cost?
Typically around £1.22–£1.70 per leg, depending on pack size and retailer.
Where can I buy Loft Legs?
Available online and instore via Wickes, Toolstation, Screwfix, and specialist retailers. Also found online through Amazon, DIY merchants and B&Q.
Are Loft Legs included in loft boarding kits?
Loft boarding kits do not include Loft Legs. Do to the variability in the number of legs required it is more efficient to buy the Loft Legs separately from the boards.
Do I need permission to install Loft Legs in my loft?
For basic storage, no planning permission is needed. However, if you're altering the structure check with your local authority and/or a structural engineer.
Final Thoughts
Loft Legs are a practical, affordable way to create safe storage space in your loft without compromising insulation. Whether you're tackling a DIY job or hiring a professional, understanding how they work and how to install them properly will help you get the best results. Still have questions about Loft Legs or loft boarding in general?
Get in touch—we're here to help 01282 861001.
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