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Insulating a garage conversion floor
Hi, after some advice please. I’m planning an integral garage conversion to make a larger kitchen and small study at the front. The garage floor is the same height as the rest of the house so only realistic option for floor insulation would be to raise the floor which is a massive pain as I’d have a step in the middle of the kitchen and to the study, and we have a water tank in the garage (due to a ASHP) which would have to be removed and re-fitted. Digging down wouldn’t be cost effective, and it’s solid concrete, no screed.
It’s a new build (2024) property with good insulation to current standards, walls and ceilings are already partially insulated where it joins the house, I’d be insulating the rest. New rads installed etc.
I read that it’s possible to avoid having to insulate the floor if it’s impractical or pay back period is too long – is it feasible for BC to sign off with no floor insulation or am I clutching at straws?
Thanks for the advice!
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3 Replies
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Conversions come under the statement-Practicable Possible.
It’s difficult to get agreement with some Building Control inspectors as regs and statements are interpreted differently by others! However we have been able to offer over insulated areas in compensation but again need a very knowledgeable and Not book taught inspector- saying that though and as advised already the benefits from and insulated floor is massive so I would consider the dig out and re-lay option if me.
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Garage conversions like this are common there are compliant ways to deal with floor insulation where it’s impractical we can review your setup and advise what building control is likely to accept.
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the actual term is “where reasonable and practical “
you could contact the developer , a possible scenario is that its a raft , and its insulated anyway ..
another alternative could be a low profile ( 20mm ) insulated UFH overlay system ( wunda or similar ) or a minimal insulation barrier below your flooring
its highly unlikely that an LABC officer would ( or could) insist on a dig out .. if it is a raft ( most likely as one level ) or a suspended slab ( fully reinforced) as it would affect the entire structural integrity of the full slab
chat with thr developer , or find out the inspecting authority , they should be able to tell you .. ( thats if it isnt already documented in your homeowner information pack that you would have had from the developer at purchase )
all the best !
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