Framing An Attic Ceiling

If you have attic trusses not conventional trusses the members will be sized to support living space.

Framing an attic ceiling.

However in some cases the joists are intentionally built strong enough for the homeowner to later build out the attic. Friction fit insulation between and parallel to the attic framing members. Space these boards 4 ft. Apart and attach the ends to the ends of the rafters.

Most houses attics are built without flooring and are not designed to carry the heavy load of finished space. When framing your ceiling if the ceiling joists are not going in the same direction as the roof rafters 2 by 4s are added running in the same direction as the rafters. Run the plywood down to the top of the knee wall. If you want your attic space to have a flat ceiling you ll need to add collar ties to the framing.

Collar ties are horizontal members that like rafter ties extend from rafter to rafter but. Ensure insulation extends to the outside edge of the exterior top plates and to the peak of the cathedral ceiling. The ceiling load may include items like drywall ducts recessed lights bathroom fans and attic insulation. Nail the 2 by 4s to the top of each ceiling joist with 2 16d nails.

Ensure ends of insulation are butted together and flush to underside of framing. If you have a rafter framed attic the floor joists may or may not be large enough for living space and may need to be reinforced or replaced.