Opening up Loft Hatch/Cutting joists

[ScottishGasMan]

Hey all, in a 1920's Sandstone SemiDetached bungalow. The loft hatch is tiny, Literally just 500mm of plasterboard removed between two joists.

I was thinking of fitting some more joists (as seen below) then cutting one out the middle so I can Have a decent sized hatch as the current one is very hard to get in and out when you have to place ladders up at it.

The hatch is in cupboard in middle of house, between two brick walls which presumably will be bearing the weight of the joists above so I dont see any issue with the way Im planning on doing it, but though Id better ask if this is correct or madness first lol

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• ScottishGasMan
• 10 Aug 2014
• 1

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• ScottishGasMan
• 10 Aug 2014
• 1

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• ScottishGasMan
• 10 Aug 2014
• 1

 

[ScottishGasMan]

Forgot to show pic of loft joists as it is

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• ScottishGasMan
• 10 Aug 2014
• 1

 

[xr4x4]

Yes sounds fine.

Then get some loft insulation!

 

[ScottishGasMan]

Partly what its in aid of, the folk are comming in october to insulate it and I cant see them squeexing the rolls throguh the current hatch!

 

[xr4x4]

Ours is the same, I can bearly get through it.

I had to unravel the rolls in the room below and some one had to pass it through. Looked like I was pulling a large snake into the loft.

When you put your timbers in, try and get the same size and double them up...adds strength.

 

[catlad]

Keylight do some drop down wooden ladders that you can install single handedly.