Framing For Attic Stairs

To build stairs start by cutting the stringers which are the pieces of wood that run diagonally under the stairs and hold them up.

Framing for attic stairs.

Before proceeding make sure you have a space between the joists at least as large as the rough opening shown on the box and that any cut joists are attached to uncut joists. Screw 1 4 x 2 inch hex head lag screws into the header securing the portion of. See more ideas about stairs loft stairs stairs design. Remove joists and other obstructions.

Construct the opening. For more on framing a staircase read john s article strong and simple stairs in the april may 2005 issue of fine homebuilding 170. Begin to secure the ladder by pre drilling four 1 8 inch pilot holes at the top of the frame. This part deals with framing the attic opening.

Type of framing your attic floor and roof are probably framed with either trusses or with individual rafters and floor joists. The components cannot be cut or altered or you risk ruining the structural strength. Use your drill and two wood screws to hold the frame of the ladder to the header of your support structure. Attic stair pull down or folding stairway construction installation inspection hazards repairs.

This article explains how to inspect the condition and safety of attic stairs folding or pull down attic stairs and ladders and attic stairway railings landings treads and related conditions for safety and proper construction. Or see michael maines article on calculating rise and run 2 rules for building comfortable stairs. Snap chalk lines onto the ceiling to represent the rough opening of the attic staircase. A truss functions as an interlocking system of framing members joined by gussets or metal connectors.

Then install the stringers to the top and bottom of the area where you re building the stairs by screwing them into metal joists.