Garage conversions are an affordable and straightforward way of providing more living space in your home whilst avoiding any major building work. If you have recently moved into a new property and your Homebuyers Report London way that was produced by solicitors such as https://www.samconveyancing.co.uk/Homebuyers-Survey/Home-Buyers-Survey-London has shown that your garage a solid construction, you may want to look at alternative ways in which to use this space.
One essential factor of the conversion is the addition of insulation to make the garage comfortable, warm living space. Whether you have converted your garage into a bedroom or office, how do you insulate a converted garage?
The areas to insulate
The three areas of a converted garage that should be insulated are the roof, the walls and the floor, which will ensure it is turned into a habitable space. Choose garage shelving to complement the room.
Each of these areas has different challenges and solutions, and it is important to be familiar with the relevant building regulations.
Building regulations
The conversion of a garage into living space is usually considered an extension to the existing property, according to building standards and regulations in the UK.
Garage conversions must also meet specific thermal standards set by the government, which is dependent on location. Standards vary across locations in Wales, Scotland, and England, so ensures you are aware of what is required.
You may choose to exceed these standards and meet the thermal levels in the rest of your property.
U-values
Each element of garage conversions – the walls, roof, and floor – must be insulated and constructed to meet U-value standards set by Building Regulations and Standards. U-value is the rate of loss of heat through one of these elements. These values, which apply to extensions of existing buildings, are:
Walls
– England: 0.28W/m²K.
– Wales: 0.21 W/m²K.
– Scotland: 0.19 W/m²K.
Flooring
– England: 0.22 W/m²K.
– Wales: 0.18 W/m²K.
– Scotland: 0.15 W/m²K.
Flat roof
– England: 0.18 W/m²K.
– Wales: 0.15 W/m²K.
– Scotland: 0.15 W/m²K.
It is important to note that separate values apply for new builds and refurbishments. It is vital to check with your local building control authority before undertaking any renovation or extension work.
Existing construction
Before starting to plan your garage conversion, it is extremely important to thoroughly check the existing construction of your garage. In this way, you can gauge the correct thickness and type of insulation to use.
