Cutting 2x8 Ceiling Joists For Attic Stairs

Unless expressly built so an attic s joists are meant for carrying the load of the ceiling below and related elements collectively known as the dead load.

Cutting 2x8 ceiling joists for attic stairs.

Part 6 shows you how. Hopefully the attached pictures provide additional info. A joist is made from wood concrete and steel and it is basically a strong material that provides support and stability to the entire house. 1 can the joist be cut to make room for the attic ladder.

Ceiling joist are support by a wall that runs roughly down the middle of the house. When you find it remove the insulation from the area and determine which of the joists you re going to cut. The ceiling load may include items like drywall ducts recessed lights bathroom fans and attic insulation. 2x4 s actual size spaced 16 on center running the stack exchange network.

I d like to double my ceiling joists to make my attic space easier to work in for electrical plumbing and for lightweight storage. Ceiling joist are 2x4. Saw through the joist s being careful not to cut through the ceiling and making sure the cut ends of the joist s are flat and vertical. Figure 1 modified joists there are some important points to highlight.

Now that you ve cut your joists it s time to frame the new opening. The following diagram figure 1 shows the floor or ceiling joists after the access hole has been cut to install a new flight of stairs or provide an attic access. Use a reciprocating saw to cut joists and nails holding any joists that must be removed. Cut out the framing around existing hatchway opening with a reciprocating saw 5.

A joist is a horizontal support member that holds up the wall beam ceilings and floors and connects these parts with one another and one example of the purpose of a joist is to connect the floor joist that is used to connect the stairs of a home. 2 how much weight could the ceiling joist hold. If the joists are installed at 16 inches on center you will need to cut one joist and attach a. Once you re in the attic locate the screw.

If the attic access hole is being cut for an attic ladder check the width of your ceiling joists. One will be used as your stationary the other you ll cut header it off and put your attic stair in. Cut around ceiling trim with a utility knife. Click here to purchase the easy access attic ladder by werner.