Framing An Attic Ceiling

Friction fit insulation between and parallel to the attic framing members.

Framing an attic ceiling.

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. However in some cases the joists are intentionally built strong enough for the homeowner to later build out the attic. If you want your attic space to have a flat ceiling you ll need to add collar ties to the framing. The ceiling load may include items like drywall ducts recessed lights bathroom fans and attic insulation.

Collar ties are horizontal members that like rafter ties extend from rafter to rafter but. The plywood will create a smooth strong ceiling without having to apply drywall tape and mud to the ceiling. Nail the 2 by 4s to the top of each ceiling joist with 2 16d nails. Apart and attach the ends to the ends of the rafters.

Space these boards 4 ft. Run the plywood down to the top of the knee wall. Most houses attics are built without flooring and are not designed to carry the heavy load of finished space. Attic floor framing attic floors are made with floor joists or with truss members.

Install and paint the ceiling use screws to attach sheets of birch plywood to the angled ceiling over the insulation making sure to drive the screws into the ceiling joists. Ensure insulation extends to the outside edge of the exterior top plates and to the peak of the cathedral ceiling.