I assume i should frame the openning with doubled up 2x8 headers.
How to install attic stairs perpendicular to joists.
Secure by drilling a minimum of two nails through the lumber and into the joist.
Do not cut the joist at this mark.
This would require cutting some of the ceiling joist.
The fact that the joists run directly into the jamb of the stairs make for an extremely unsafe install.
This folding attic ladder installed that runs perpendicular to the measurement install either on the rough opening step 1mark if this will defeat its width one way to install pulldown attic floor joists and bottom of space to a lot of the end of stairs if this problem construct a drywall if your way to floor joists.
Mark rough opening of new fold down staircase on the ceiling joists in the attic.
If your attic joists won t bear the weight necessary to finish out a living space but the engineer cleared them to support floor decking for light storage you can install inch plywood or.
Repeat this step with a second piece of lumber on the opposite side.
I should be able to cut just one joist if i install the stairs parallel with the joists but i may need to configure them perpendicular for clearance reasons which would necessitate cutting 2 or 3 joists.
Step 2 cut joist support boards.
Do this by laying a plank of lumber perpendicular to the joist.
That is a narrow hallway but the ladder would need to be installed perpendicular to joists.
Cut around ceiling trim with a utility knife.
Do not cut the joist at this mark.
It is an old house 1899.
I only have one area in old house on the 3rd floor where i can put a pull down attic ladder.
What guidelines do i need to keep in mind if i just cut 1 joist.
Shim and reinstall the stairs.
Use a reciprocating saw to cut joists and nails holding any joists that must be removed.
The joists should be cut back an additional 3 and a double rim joist applied.
1 can the joist be cut to make room for the attic ladder.
Joist hangers should be installed where the joists and rim intersect.
2 how much weight could the ceiling joist hold.
Cut 2 joist sized boards long enough to span two joists on each side of your chosen location see figure 9.
In this video this old house general contractor tom silva explains how to install attic stairs.
Looking to take advantage of some open space in our attic and want to install an attic ladder.
B if the chosen location is perpendicular to the joists mark the rough opening width on top of the joists see figure 8.
Before i do can anyone help me answer the following questions.
The good news is it s an easy fix.
