Enlarge Attic Opening

I m not sure of your particular situation but since you are already reframing the opening you should consider adding a drop down ladder.

Enlarge attic opening.

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

Peek into the attic to make sure there aren t any ducts wires or pipes in the way. 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. Cut out attic access opening photo by karim shamsi basha. However the attic must have an access before you review ways to use that space.

As long as you have the space this will make the attic much more usable in general. Snap chalk lines onto the ceiling to represent the rough opening of the attic staircase. Install a unit of pre made pull down stairs. Any homeowner can find lots of usable living or storage space in most attics.

Inspect the room to decide the most convenient location for the attic stairs for a new stair installation or enlarge a small access opening. We want to enlarge the opening and put in some pull down stairs to make getting into the attic easier.