Do I need RSJ for loft conversion?

Do I need RSJ for loft conversion?

The number one priority for every loft conversion is its structural integrity. If your planned conversion is not structurally sound, then it won’t meet building regulations. Because most internal walls are not strong enough to bear the load of a new living space, structural beams are usually necessary.

Do you need steels in a loft conversion?

Structural integrity is key in any loft conversion, of course. Steel beams are the most commonly used within loft conversions, particularly as they offer more flexibility in terms of structure. Timber joists can be fitted to steel beams, and they are also able to span longer distances than timber beams.

Can you do a loft conversion on a steel framed house?

Yes it can be done. Needs a careful survey to identify load bearing elements, or obtaining the fabrication drawings and calcs for the frame which sometimes is available. Look for a name on any exposed frame and contact that company to see if they have the info. However, loft conversions rely on lots of headspace.

How much does a telebeam loft conversion cost?

The Telebeam system is designed bespoke for each property with prices varying depending on size and complexity of the build. The system is around £5,000+VAT for a typical 2/3 bedroomed house, depending on the size. Quotes can be obtained from our quotations team or the ‘Get a Quote’ section of our website.

Can you do a loft conversion with roof trusses?

Truss roofs have ‘W’ shaped rafters which support the load of both the roof and the loft’s floor structure. They would likely have been installed originally as they were low cost, but barring basic storage, they do not allow a lot of space for converting the loft.

How much weight can loft joists take?

Typically the joists in a loft will support about 40kg/m2 of weight so providing you’re storing less than this you won’t need to do any additional work to strengthen the joists.

Can you do a loft conversion with a trussed roof?

A trussed roof loft conversion changes the structure of the roof, removing the supporting truss beams and replacing them with steel supports. You will need an expert structural engineer to complete the calculations and draw up plans, making sure the roof retains its structural integrity.

Do you need RSJs for a loft conversion?

Our conversion is very typical and requires two steel RSJs to support the new floor and a third to support the ridge of the roof. A loft conversion can be made entirely from timber joists but the increased costs (materials and labour) mean that just about every loft conversion uses steel RSJs.

Why do you need RSJ beams for lofts?

The system adds a gentle load maximising space as you DO NOT need heavy steel RSJ beams or girders all the space is usable right to the edges, its like adding a whole floor to the property!

What kind of steel do you need for a loft?

Most loft conversions use steel RSJs (rolled steel joists) to support the weight of the new floor. Our conversion is very typical and requires two steel RSJs to support the new floor and a third to support the ridge of the roof.

Can a loft be converted to a roof?

Now that the steels are in place work can start on removing the trusses and putting in the additional timber work that will transfer the roof load down onto the steels. At this stage most of the work is fairly straightforward carpentry, those working on a DIY loft conversion should find this stage fairly easy.