Knock on the ceiling or use a stud finder to find.
Enlarge attic opening.
Diy ceiling hatch how to enlarge a loft hatch or install a new loft hatch.
Enlarging an attic opening so i currently have an attic opening that s just a 2 x 2 or so square with a push up panel that acts as the door.
Inspect the room to decide the most convenient location for the attic stairs for a new stair installation or enlarge a small access opening.
Any homeowner can find lots of usable living or storage space in most attics.
This step is necessary regardless of whether you re expanding an existing hatchway or creating new attic access.
Framing the opening can be easy if you can locate the ladder so that it is parallel with the existing ceiling joists.
Most attic ladders are made to fit between joists set at 24 inches on center.
As long as you have the space this will make the attic much more usable in general.
Peek into the attic to make sure there aren t any ducts wires or pipes in the way.
However the attic must have an access before you review ways to use that space.
Snap chalk lines onto the ceiling to represent the rough opening of the attic staircase.
Cut out attic access opening photo by karim shamsi basha.
Or create an opening in the ceiling or enlarge one already in place.
Install a unit of pre made pull down stairs.