Making storage space in the ceiling is driven by that most homes have a standard store or pantry already in place. After a few years storage space starts diminishing due to more items needing to be kept. One of the places where this extra space can be found is the ceiling. Before commencement of works, start by going up the trap door and observe the construction or brandering system used. It is necessary for checking the supporting walls and spacing.
When ready to commence making storage space, remove one soffit board for ease of working. Its advisable to make the store on a hall way not in the rooms for ease of access. Check for the walls to anchor the bottom joists of timber or steel tubing with a wall plate. This is the main support for the cross members. Ensure the first joists if of timber or steel are laid for example three inches side facing sideways and the four side facing upwards.
The storage space in the ceiling will now have the base or decking that doesn’t sit on the actual ceiling. Fix the platform of other members spanning the opposite direction. Lay timber or other boards of one inch by six inches spanning the shorter distance. Note all members should be attached with screws as hammering will create cracks on the boards below. Screw all members of the decking firmly into place, remove all arising debris in the loft.
Build the soffit board into place after storage space in the ceiling is complete. Make the jointing good and repaint the surfaces. Ensure that a light point has been added as this space now needs a permanent light point. Cut out the board before replacing a hole of two feet by two feet, just in case there was no access to the loft. Hinge the piece to open upwards into the ceiling. Make the new trap door looks good by painting it in accordance to your house’s surroundings.