Attic Space
By: Amanda Campbell
Tired of renting a storage space for all those things you can’t bear
to throw away? An attic can provide a wealth of storage space if it is
properly prepared. Installing a floor in an attic will make it a safe
and useful space. It is highly recommended that you work in your attic
in the spring, fall, or winter. Summer attic temperatures can exceed
140° Fahrenheit. If you must work in your attic in the summer, drink
plenty of water and take frequent cooling breaks.
TOOLS
*
Tape measure
* Circular saw or Jigsaw
* Electric drill
*
Screwdriver (Electric screw gun recommended)
* Rubber mallet
*
Pry bar
MATERIALS
* Storage Board 24”x48” boards (or plywood
equivalent)
* Counter-sinking drill bit
* 1 5/8" screws (2 per
board)
STEP BY STEP
1. Measure the width and length of
the area you wish to floor. Multiply the figures together to determine
square footage (a 20’x10’ space=200 square feet).
2.
Determine how many storage boards (24x48 inches = 8 square feet) you
will need. (Example: 200’ square divided by 8 = 25 boards needed)
3.
Assess your attic for wiring, plumbing, or gas lines. It would be a
violation of building codes to simply lay boards on top of the lines.
You will need to cut notches in the joists or boards to accommodate any
lines.
4. Lay boards across joists. In most homes the
construction standard sets joists at 16 inches “on center”. Align the
board so that the ends run from the middle of one joist to the middle of
another.
5. Drill a pilot hole using a countersink bit. This
will allow you to flush mount the screws and prevent boxes or other
stored items from catching on protruding screws. Using screws will allow
for easy removal or replacement should the need arise.
6.
Continue drilling and fastening each board as you proceed.
7.
Use the rubber mallet or pry bar to help align any stubborn boards.
8. Use the saw(s) to make any custom cuts needed to accommodate
your attic space.
9. Once finished, obtain assistance moving
objects into the attic. Carrying bulky or heavy items up a ladder alone
can be extremely dangerous.
