Enlarge Attic Opening

Diy ceiling hatch how to enlarge a loft hatch or install a new loft hatch.

Enlarge attic opening.

This step is necessary regardless of whether you re expanding an existing hatchway or creating new attic access. Or create an opening in the ceiling or enlarge one already in place. 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. 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. Install a unit of pre made pull down stairs.

Inspect the room to decide the most convenient location for the attic stairs for a new stair installation or enlarge a small access opening. However the attic must have an access before you review ways to use that space. Any homeowner can find lots of usable living or storage space in most attics. Framing the opening can be easy if you can locate the ladder so that it is parallel with the existing ceiling joists.

As long as you have the space this will make the attic much more usable in general. I m not sure of your particular situation but since you are already reframing the opening you should consider adding a drop down ladder.