How to Build an Access Hatch

An access hatch typically refers to a small door in a ceiling used to gain access to the space attic. Having this access may become necessary to service various components of your house, such as electrical lines, ventilation devices and plumbing. Building an access hatch requires cutting an opening in your ceiling, attaching a header and mounting a ready-made access hatch onto the opening.

Access hatch with built-in folding ladder
Measuring tape
Power drill
Drywall saw
Wood saw
Hammer
Nails
Clip angle

Instructions

- 1
  Locate the spot in your ceiling where you wish to place the access hatch. Access hatches are usually placed along hallways or corridors, but consideration has to be given to the amount of space needed below the hatch to deploy and access the folding ladder.
- 2
  Draw a rectangular or square outline of the hatch casing on the ceiling following the manufacturer's dimensions stated in the instructions manual, using a measuring tape and pencil. Measure the length and width of the hatch casing, if the dimensions are not provided.
- 3
  Drill a hole at each corner of the outline and then cut the outline with a drywall saw to create an opening. Remove the cut piece of ceiling, along with any insulating material. Saw off the middle joist with a wood saw.
- 4
  Measure the distance between the two parallel joists and cut two pieces of wood, using your measurements for the length. Use the same size wood as the existing ceiling joists. Mount each piece of wood upright -- along each opposite side of the ceiling opening -- perpendicular to the ceiling joists, using metal brackets.
- 5
  Insert the hatch frame into the opening and screw it to the joists. Attach insulating material around the frame to seal any gaps. Test the fixture by opening the hatch and deploying its ladder.

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