How to create a storage space in my roof?

JonnyH

Hi all,

I was wondering if I could get some advice on installing 'floor' in the space in my roof. My house has quite a tall roof almost two metres high and is basically the size of the footprint of the house. For the moment installing a pull down ladder is a bit beyond my skill and budget so I'm using a normal ladder to get up there.

What sort of flooring should I use? Ply, MDF? (On some work sites I've been on, I've seen black panels that the cut up and use for all sorts of stuff but I think it's mainly used for form work)

Would you just screw the panels straight into the wood frame?

A video I saw online suggested installing structural pine across the framing in the roof to install the paneling onto that. Is that something that is recommended?

I'll be limited by the size of the manhole... should I get the panels cut just smaller then the size of the manhole or should I save up and get someone to install the pull down ladder first?

Storage Space - crawl space 520mm square - 710mm diagonal

Cheer again for all the help

Jonny

EricL

Hello @JonnyH 

I suggest having a quick look at this discussion - How to create a storage space in a roof cavity? by @Scouter. Is the area intended solely for storage, or is there a possibility it might be converted into a bedroom in the future? It's crucial to understand the load the ceiling will need to support. You'll need to consult a structural engineer to assess whether the structure can handle your intended use. 

It’s important to evaluate how the ceiling is supported and whether any modifications are required to accommodate the extra weight from flooring and stored items. Depending on your home's ceiling and roof design, the existing structure might not be suitable for supporting stored goods, as ceilings typically aren't built for load bearing. Additional or larger timber beams will be necessary to reinforce the ceiling.

Here are some previous discussions regarding using your ceiling space as storage: 

• Loft attic conversion by @zeroasylum 
   
• Flooring suggestions - utility attic space by @deslea 
   
• Attic room conversion by @matty-two-soups 

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric