When converting your loft, the most important thing is to make sure that your roof space is structurally sound. Professional planning from a specialist loft conversion company is obviously the way to ensure this, and they’ll be able to guide you towards the type of support that your new loft conversion will need.
One of the decisions that will need to be taken early in the planning process is whether to use steel or timber beams. There are advantages and disadvantages to both within loft conversions. North London renovators, here’s how to decide on what’s best to support your home.
Structural Considerations
Structural integrity is key in any loft conversion, of course. You do not want to put your home in jeopardy through a badly planned or poorly supported loft conversion. Your loft conversion company will of course be heavily involved in the choice of beam at this stage and how to make your home structurally sound.
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.
That’s not to say that timber beams do not have a place, however. For smaller scale projects or projects in a more bijou space, timber beams can be cut and fit into place without their strength being compromised.
Cost Considerations
You may be surprised to hear that when it comes to cost, steel beams are the cheaper. They also provide great longevity, meaning that they are the more cost effective option over timber beams.
Durability Considerations
When it comes to strength, both steel and timber beams will provide appropriate support for your home and carry a substantial amount of weight. But when it comes to durability and ongoing maintenance, steel is the stronger of the two.
Timber beams can become susceptible to rot and moisture problems. Insect infestation can also be a problem for timber beams. And whilst steel beams can suffer from rust damage, they can also be painted and primed against rust, and do not suffer from other problems like timber beams do.
Steel beams can, therefore, make for a less problematic loft conversion further down the line.If you’re still unsure of what type of beam will suit your loft conversion, speak to Bespoke Lofts. We will happily take you from planning stage through to completed room. Contact us today and help us support your loft extension.