How to install a ceiling manhole?

[Freddy04]

Looks like i need to install a ceiling manhole on the lower level to be able to access the section between ceiling and roof to address a slight possible ant nest. 

Please provide guidance how to do this and how to avoid electrical wires same time. 

Also this is on the outside alfresco area which is open and accessible. Would putting up a ceiling access in alfresco possible create an avenue for thieves to be able to make their way into the house through the roof? 

thanks

[EricL]

Hello @Freddy04 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about installing a manhole in your ceiling.

I don't recommend installing your manhole outside the house as it can be used an access point to go inside your house. I suggest putting it either in your laundry room or in a hallway if you have one in your home. I recommend looking at the Builders Edge 600 x 600mm Heavy Duty Melamine Manhole Frame Kit as it is a complete set, and you don't have to make a panel for it. In order to make a shallow cut in the plasterboard, I suggest using a Multi Tool with a circular blade. Using this tool, you'll be able to cut just the plasterboard without going too deep. Once, you've cut an access hole you'll be able to tell if there are any wires going across the ceiling joist. For extra safety you can turn off the power on your fuse box while you are cutting the manhole.

Here is a handy step-by-step guide: How To Install A Manhole 

I also suggest having a look at this guide - How to use ladders safely by @Adam_W.

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

Eric

[Freddy04]

Hi Eric 

Thanks for the info. How do I make sure that the access hole in ceiling that I cut does not end up cutting the wooden studs located behind the ceiling that holds the ceiling? 

[MitchellMc]

You would need to check the stud locations with a stud finder before making the cuts @Freddy04. Here's a helpful guide: How to use a stud finder.

How big is the ant infestation? If it's just a trail of ants coming from the roof area, there's no need to enter it. Just place several drops of Ant-Rid next to the trail. The ants will gather the poison and take it back to the nest, destroying it within a couple of days.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell