How to build a trap door into existing decking?

jd15

Hi all,

I couldn’t find an existing thread so reaching out with hope.

I have a fully enclosed pine deck and I need to a quick access point for sewer and stormwater lines. 

Grateful for your ideas and tips on how to create a simple, low skill required, trap door within the deck? Please note that I have minimal skills and tools so a simple (not perfect) solution is required.

I propose using my jigsaw to cut a square in 4 planks and then bolt in a pine frame and hinges.

thank you in advance 

JacobZ

Hi @jd15,

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community, it is fantastic to have you with us.

While it might seem pretty simple to add a trap door, the fact that it needs to support any of the weight applied to it could make it a bit trickier than you think. It should still be achievable with some basic tools and know-how, but we need to ensure it is strong and safe.

Do you currently have access to the underside of the deck at all? Do you know what size the joists are?

You'd have to start by building a basic timber frame that the decking boards will attach to. 70 x 35mm Outdoor Framing H3 Treated Pine should be fine.

We'd also have to attach some 90 x 45mm Outdoor Framing H3 Treated Pine to the decks joists. The frame of your trap door will sit on top of this when it is closed. It could be attached to the joists using galvanised bolts. This will ensure any load applied to the trap door is then transferred into the joists, ensuring it is safe to step on.

You will also have to attach some framing that runs between the joists to attach your hinges.

This design would ensure your trap door is well supported and safe to step on.

Let me know what you think.

Jacob