Roof Stilt Elevating Flooring Above Insulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of mineral wool quilt insulation in roof spaces often restricts or eliminates storage capacity, as traditional storage systems compress the insulation, leading to a need for a solution that allows effective insulation while maintaining storage functionality.
Innovation Solution
A roof stilt system comprising a joist receptacle, a platform for affixing flooring, and a support column that elevates the flooring above the insulation, minimizing compression and allowing for adequate insulation thickness without compromising storage space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If mineral wool quilt insulation is installed to reduce heat loss, then energy efficiency is improved, but storage space is restricted or eliminated
Solution Approach 1:
The stilt system introduces a vertical dimension by elevating the flooring above the insulation layer. The support column extends vertically through the insulation thickness, allowing the flooring to be positioned in a higher plane without compressing the insulation. This dimensional separation enables both thick insulation (270mm) and functional storage flooring to coexist.
Solution Approach 2:
The stilt acts as an intermediary structure between the insulation layer and the flooring. The support column serves as a mediator that transfers loads from the flooring to the joists without contacting or compressing the mineral wool quilt insulation. The joist receptacle and platform provide additional intermediary surfaces for secure attachment.
2Ease of operation
If traditional storage systems are used in loft spaces, then storage functionality is maintained, but insulation is compressed
Solution Approach 1:
The stilt system introduces an intermediary structure (support column and platform) that separates the flooring from the insulation layer. This mediator transfers structural loads through the insulation thickness without applying compressive forces to the mineral wool quilt, maintaining its thermal performance while enabling storage functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
By elevating the flooring to a higher vertical plane through the support column, the system creates spatial separation between the insulation layer and the storage surface. This dimensional change allows storage items to be placed on the elevated flooring without directly compressing the insulation beneath.
3Loss of energy
If thick insulation is installed to maximize energy efficiency, then heat loss is reduced, but storage capacity is severely restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The stilt system exploits the vertical dimension by positioning the flooring above the thick insulation layer. The support column extends through the entire insulation thickness (270mm), allowing the flooring to be elevated to a plane where storage can occur without compressing the insulation. This vertical separation enables both maximum insulation thickness and functional storage capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The stilt structure serves as an intermediary that bridges the gap between the thick insulation layer and the required storage flooring. The support column and platform provide a load-bearing path that bypasses the insulation material, allowing heavy storage items to be supported without transferring compressive loads to the mineral wool quilt.
Data Source
AI summary
A roof stilt for elevating flooring in a roof space comprising: a joist receptacle; a platform for affixing flooring to the stilt; and a support column extending between the joist receptacle and the platform for supporting the weight of elevated flooring.