Enlarging Or Fitting A New Loft HatchFitting or enlarging a loft hatch (or roof access hole) to accommodate a new loft ladder is essential if you plan a diy loft conversion or just want to improve access to your roof space. Using the existing roof access by enlarging it is the easiest way forward. For this reason it is practical to first purchase the loft ladder as the manufacturer usually states the recommended size of opening on the packaging so you will know exactly the dimensions that you need for the newly enlarged access. In some circumstances it may be necessary to cut away (a very small) part of a joist to create the room for an enlarged loft hatch, needless to say extreme care should be taken here - consult a joinner if in any doubt. In most modern houses the existing roof access will not be large enough for a loft ladder and so will need to be enlarged. This can be done quite easily by firstly marking the area of plasterboard to be cut by piercing the ceiling from above. Then, cut away the plasterboard before removing and replacing the existing trimmers (the lengths of timber which form the two ends of the loft hatch by fitting squarely between the joists).
Try to ensure the position of the new loft hatch is easily accessible and that the ladder will reach the floor when fully extended. The usual positioning of roof access above the second floor landing is the most practical solution. Working from a ladder punch through the ceiling using a tool such as a bradawl to find the joists before cutting a small access hole in the plasterboard. This hole should only be big enough to allow you to see in the roof space. Using a powerful torch ensure there are no electrical cables or other obstructions before enlarging the access hole and climbing into the roof space. Don’t attempt any further work until you have placed planks or boards across the joists to make a platform from which you can work. Safety first. Having already made one hole in the plasterboard you don’t want to make another one by over-balancing on a joist and putting your foot through the ceiling! Working from your secure platform cut back the joists where necessary (a couple of inches should suffice) so that the trimmers can be fitted. Once the trimmers are in place you then need to nail the timber linings onto the trimmers before finishing off the newly enlarged loft access with a mitred architrave. Hinging the loft hatch on the lining will be necessary in order to fit a loft ladder. Once this is done the job is complete and ready for installing the loft ladder. Related Articles
An Overview Of Loft Hatches
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