Attic openings are either ladders or hatches.
Installing an attic access door is a necessity for all homes. Even if storage space is not required, periodic inspections of the roof, insulation and other items are. While most homes at least have a small hatch, it is often in an inconvenient location or too small. Creating a new attic opening is simply a matter of cutting through the ceiling. However, because wiring and insulation are above the ceiling, homeowners must work slowly and carefully. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Walk around the home and identify a desirable location for the ceiling opening. If you are cutting a hatch, consider placing it in a hallway or closet. If you are installing a full ladder system, ensure that there is plenty of space under it to fully extend the ladder.
2. Climb up into the attic, if possible, and examine the area for wires or ductwork. If any of these are present, choose another location and hammer a small nail through the ceiling so you can locate it from below. Don work gloves and push away any insulation covering the area. If attic access is not possible, proceed with installation.
3. Position a ladder under the location and slide a stud finder over the ceiling until it lights up, indicating a ceiling joist. Mark the area with a pencil and then locate anther joist to the left or the right of the first.
4. Place a tape measure on the ceiling and measure out the width and length of the attic opening and mark it with a pencil. Connect the lines with a straightedge. The proper dimensions for the opening are located on the attic hatch or stair packaging.
5. Insert a keyhole saw into the ceiling at the location of the pencil line. If you have difficulty pushing the tip of the saw in, tap it gently with a hammer. Use a sawing motion to cut around the entire perimeter of the outline until the opening comes out.
6. Lower the cut-out ceiling panel to the floor and save it if you are installing a hatch, since you may need to reinstall it for the door.
Tags: attic access, attic opening, through ceiling, with pencil
