Enlarge Attic Opening

Cut out attic access opening photo by karim shamsi basha.

Enlarge attic opening.

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. This step is necessary regardless of whether you re expanding an existing hatchway or creating new attic access. Most attic ladders are made to fit between joists set at 24 inches on center. Knock on the ceiling or use a stud finder to find.

However the attic must have an access before you review ways to use that space. Inspect the room to decide the most convenient location for the attic stairs for a new stair installation or enlarge a small access opening. 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. Install a unit of pre made pull down stairs.

As long as you have the space this will make the attic much more usable in general. Framing the opening can be easy if you can locate the ladder so that it is parallel with the existing ceiling joists. Snap chalk lines onto the ceiling to represent the rough opening of the attic staircase. We want to enlarge the opening and put in some pull down stairs to make getting into the attic easier.

Any homeowner can find lots of usable living or storage space in most attics. Diy ceiling hatch how to enlarge a loft hatch or install a new loft hatch.