Enlarge Attic Opening

This step is necessary regardless of whether you re expanding an existing hatchway or creating new attic access.

Enlarge attic opening.

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

As long as you have the space this will make the attic much more usable in general. Or create an opening in the ceiling or enlarge one already in place. Framing the opening can be easy if you can locate the ladder so that it is parallel with the existing ceiling joists. Cut out attic access opening photo by karim shamsi basha.

Peek into the attic to make sure there aren t any ducts wires or pipes in the way. 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. 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. However the attic must have an access before you review ways to use that space.