Cut Joist and Frame Opening

What happens in this clip

With the joists braced, proceed to cut the identified joist. Use a circular saw to cut most of the way through the joist, then switch to a smaller hand saw (like a box saw) to finish the cut carefully without damaging the drywall below. After removing the cut section of the joist, install two new pieces of lumber as headers, running perpendicular to the existing joists, at the front and back of the new opening. Secure these headers to the existing joists using double joist hangers and appropriate load-rated fasteners (e.g., nails or structural screws driven with a nail gun or hammer). This creates a framed opening for the attic stair. The space needed for the attic stair unit will typically be 22.5 inches wide, requiring the installation of an additional joist parallel to the original joist, held by single joist hangers at either end.

Goal: Create the structural opening for the attic stair unit.

What's used

Tools

• Circular Saw Craftsman
• Double Joist Hangers
• Hand Saw (Box Saw)
• Nail Gun Dewalt
• Safety Glasses
• Single Joist Hangers
• Wood Lumber (2x6 or 2x8 for headers
• depending on joist size)

About the full video

This project guides you through the process of installing a new attic stair system, from planning the location and framing the opening to installing the ladder unit and adding decorative trim. It covers how to safely cut ceiling joists, brace the structure, install the ladder, and adjust its length for proper fit and function.

Step 3 of 6: Frame the Opening

Cut lumber (typically 2x6 or 2x8) to create a header that spans the width of the opening and two trimmer joists that run parallel to the existing joists. Attach the header to the ends of the trimmer joists, and then secure the frame assembly into the ceiling joists, creating a strong, rectangular opening for the ladder.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in Attic Ladder Installation

1. Step 1: Measure and Mark Ceiling Opening

   • 0:53–2:08 Determine and Mark the Ceiling Opening
   • 1:57–4:43 Mark Loft Hatch Opening on Ceiling
   • 5:03–7:57 Mark Center Points for Rough Opening

2. Step 2: Cut Ceiling Opening

   • 2:09–2:22 Cut the Plasterboard
   • 0:07–0:10 Cut the Drywall Opening
   • 0:06–0:16 Cut Enlarged Ceiling Opening

3. Step 3: Frame the Opening

   • 1:38–2:28 Cut Joist and Frame Opening (this video)
   • 0:05–0:11 Install New Ladder Frame
   • 0:00–0:14 Frame Rough Opening

4. Step 4: Position and Secure Attic Ladder

   • 0:14–0:17 Install and Secure the Attic Ladder
   • 3:51–4:28 Square and Secure the Frame
   • 5:36–6:05 Pack and Secure the Other Side

5. Step 5: Test Ladder Operation

   • 3:15–3:25 Test Ladder Operation
   • 0:13–0:17 Guide the Ladder's Descent
   • 0:58–1:08 Check Ladder Operation and Stability

6. Step 6: Install Trim and Finish

   • 3:16–4:18 Install Wooden Trim Around Opening
   • 0:11–0:17 Apply Trim and Test Ladder
   • 4:18–4:56 Install Access Door and Finish Trim