Cost of Installing Loft Legs

By Heather
Last updated 28th February 2024 - Reading time: 6 mins
At a glance
  • The average cost of installing loft legs is around £1,200
  • The job will take approximately 1 - 2 days to complete
In this article, you'll discover the following:
  • A complete pricing breakdown which includes things you need to consider, along with what such a task usually involves
  • How long the job should approximately take and a general overview of what types of services can be performed
  • How to find and hire a loft specialist

What can you expect to pay when installing new loft legs or stilts?

To give you an idea of what kind of overall cost to expect on average, you'll likely pay around £1,200.

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Below we'll take a detailed look of what to expect.

loft legs

The cost of installing loft legs is:

The installation will take anywhere from 1-2 days

£1200

How Much Are Loft Legs To Install?

Loft legs or stilts serve the purpose of raising the loft level; however, they can also serve the general purpose of leveling. Depending on how sturdy the loft area is, if the foundation is even or if there are other areas of detraction which should be dealt with, the installation of loft legs or stilts is quite simple.

The actual installation of stilts simply requires the purchase of the stilts or legs, you will simply place the legs in between the boards and loft flooring, to help with proper insulation flow. Depending on the type of loft board, the number of loft legs required will vary for each project.

Once measured, you will simply need an electric screwdriver, so you can affix the loft legs into place, onto the ceiling structure where it is being installed. There is no need to use heavy duty or power-driven equipment. In many instances, if the foundation and structure is level, you might be able to do this simple task on your own, over the weekend.

Once installed, and drilled into place, you will simply cover the loft stilt or legs with insulation material, and replace the panels on the ceiling. This type of project is one most homeowners can tackle on their own, or can always hire a local trades-person to do the job as well.

Why do you need loft legs for boarding over a loft? Can't I just lay boards over the joists?

"It helps get the right amount of insulation underneath and doesnt compress it"

Loft Leg Prices

Job Description (Semi Detached)DurationMaterial CostLabour Cost
Partially Board Using Chipboard and Install Loft Legs4-8 Hours £120£100
Board The Whole Loft Using Chipboard and Install Loft Legs1 Day£350£250
Partially Board Using Chipboard and Install Loft Legs and Insulation1 Day£270£180
Board The Whole Loft Using Chipboard and Install Loft Legs and Insulation1.5 Days£800£450
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Things to Consider if you are Installing Stilt Legs

Of course, you always want to consider the size of the space. If you have an enormous loft, or if it is not level, you might want to hire a trades-person to assess the space. Even if you eventually end up doing the work yourself, you can always get a better understanding of the type of work, and time-commitment which goes into this project.

Also, bear in mind the cost of supplies. Sure, you will hire a trades-person and pay them by the hour. But, if you don’t properly fit the space, measure the areas, and if you buy the wrong-sized stilts or equipment/material, this can end up costing you just as much, if not more than, what you would pay to hire a specialist from the onset.

Consider the time as well. It might seem like a simple job, but once you discover the foundation is not level, or there are patches where insulation is missing, the 1-day job, quickly becomes a 1-week job. And, this is something most homeowners simply can’t dedicate to doing themselves.

Ultimately, you have to understand what the job entails. Not only cost wise, but also time, commitment, hard work, and other variables. From there, you will find it easier to determine if it is better to hire a professional, or for you to attempt a DIY project.

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Doing it Yourself

A DIY job is one many homeowners can tackle with installation of loft legs. If you wish to do this job yourself, it is important to ensure you have the equipment, time, and proper understanding of placement.

If you do, this is a much easier home project than most other installation projects. It won’t take too much time, and if you understand spacing, and proper sizing of the legs, it is a job even a novice can complete.

For those who aren’t too handy, or haven’t done similar projects, you might choose the later, and hire a professional. If this is the route you choose, make sure you compare several contractors. Compare their work, reputation, time they’ve been working on these projects, and other variables.

Compare costs. Not only for supplies and materials, but also the contractor you eventually choose to hire. Only by shopping and comparison are you going to find the best deal.

And, when you do compare several professionals prior to hiring one, you are far more likely to hire the right/best person or team, than if you simply choose to hire the first person who visits your home.

Hiring a Licensed Specialist for Loft Leg Installation

  • Determine if this is a DIY project or one you should hire a specialist for.
  • Understand duration, type of materials required and other aspects surrounding the installation.
  • Consider buying materials rather than letting a trade.
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FAQs

Is this a simple DIY job?

As is the case with any installation project, it depends. With the loft, you are dealing with insulation, leveling, and performing drilling, movement work. So, for some it might be easier than it would be for others.

Why do I need to perform this installation?

In the event the loft is dipping, isn't level, or if there are issues with insulation which are noticeable, it is a job you should perform quickly.

In addition to improving airflow/temperature in the loft and home, it will also help save on your utility bills and costs, with properly insulated spaces.

Are all stilt legs the same?

No. The sizes vary greatly, as do material finish and quality. Of course the size of your loft will have an impact as to the size, and type of legs you choose to use, when installing loft legs or stilts to your home.
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