Enlarge Attic Opening

Cut out attic access opening photo by karim shamsi basha.

Enlarge attic opening.

Knock on the ceiling or use a stud finder to find. Most attic ladders are made to fit between joists set at 24 inches on center. However the attic must have an access before you review ways to use that space. Framing the opening can be easy if you can locate the ladder so that it is parallel with the existing ceiling joists.

Any homeowner can find lots of usable living or storage space in most attics. In this diy ceiling hatch project we explain how to make your loft hatch bigger including strengthening timbers when enlarging or installing a loft hatch to prevent any weakening of the roof or supporting structural timbers. Snap chalk lines onto the ceiling to represent the rough opening of the attic staircase. Make the most of all of that space in your roof with an attic ladder.

Measure and mark the ceiling to fit the size needed for the attic opening using one or both ceiling framing members as the edge of the outline. Diy ceiling hatch how to enlarge a loft hatch or install a new loft hatch. Or create an opening in the ceiling or enlarge one already in place. Peek into the attic to make sure there aren t any ducts wires or pipes in the way.

Install a unit of pre made pull down stairs. Whether you already have an existing cavity in your roof or need to create a new one t. Enlarging an attic opening so i currently have an attic opening that s just a 2 x 2 or so square with a push up panel that acts as the door. Pull the drywall away to enlarge the opening up.