WELCOME TO OUR ENLARGING A LOFT HATCH PROJECT

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Summary: Enlarging a Loft Hatch.

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Please note that if you plan to make your loft into any kind of living accommodation you must first get building regulation approval. There are many regulations governing the conversion of lofts. More info can be found in our loft conversion & loft storage projects.

First check that the enlargement you would like does not involve cutting through any main supporting beams or timber lintels, which may protrude into the loft space. If in any doubt, seek the advice from a professional.

Using the diagram below, follow these steps.

Enlarging a Loft Hatch

Mark the size of your new opening, plus 4 inches either side, on top of the existing ceiling joists1 2 3 & 4 .

These marks will be on lines A.

If your new hatch spans more than 2 joists (involving cutting more than two joists) contact a specialist and visit our loft conversion project for more information.

Place a 4-inch x 1-inch timber flat on the joists behind your lines. This is timber B. Screw this timber, using two and a half inch number 8 screws, into all positions marked by X. This is temporary support and can be removed later.

Checking for cables and pipes, cut the ceiling and the joists along lines A & D cutting through joists 2 &3 leaving 1 & 4 intact but cutting alongside them to form the new opening.

The dotted lines represent two lengths of new timber, equal to the size of your existing joist, either side of the new opening. The two rear ones should be fixed first with 4-inch, number 8 screws in all positions marked C with two screws per joist. You will need to drill pilot holes for all of these screws. Then fix the front timbers, nailing them with 3-inch wire nails, in between the joists. Where the front timbers touch the side joists on lineD, they should also be screwed at position C.

You can then remove timbers B and line your new opening with 4 or 5 x 1 inch planed timber, into which your new loft hatch will sit. The cut underside of the opening can be covered by architrave.

Top Tools

Click on a tool below for additional information.

33 Piece Screwdriver Bit Set	Auto Lock Tape Measure 10m	Combination Square 12" (300mm)	Goldscrew Builders Trade Case Zinc & Yellow Passivated 3400Pc
Irwin Jacksaw 880 7Tpi 20" (503mm)	Ryobi CSD-480CL 4.8V Screwdriver	Ryobi One + CDI-1801M/BG 18V Starter Kit	Work Apron

Much more construction information is available in our bookstore. All the tools and fittings you need in the toolstore.

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