How to create a storage space in a roof cavity?

[Scouter]

Just added a attic ladder and now wishing to create a floor but not sure where and what to start with

[MitchellMc]

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @Scouter. It's wonderful to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about creating storage in the ceiling space.

I reckon a great place to start would be to check out these previous discussions on the topic.

• Attic roof storage, walkway and ladder by @Remarka6le 
   
• How to proceed with attic storage? by @mike13

• Loft attic conversion by @zeroasylum 

• Flooring suggestions - utility attic space by @deslea 

• Attic room conversion by @matty-two-soups 

Will the area be purely for storage, or might it be converted into a bedroom at a later stage? It's important to know what type of weight the ceiling will be supporting. You can then enlist the services of a structural engineer to determine whether the structure is suitable for your proposed use. Consideration needs to be made as to how the ceiling is supported and whether any adjustments need to be made for the additional weight of the flooring and stored goods. Depending on the type of ceiling and roof you have on your home, it might not currently support your stored goods as ceilings are not designed to bear weight on them. Additional timbers or timbers of larger calibre might need to be installed spanning the ceiling.

Once you know that the ceiling is capable of supporting the additional weight, you can select your flooring material. Structural flooring is a relatively inexpensive and popular choice for this type of project. You'll need to cut it down to fit through your attic entrance and fix it securely to your ceiling joists. From there it's just a matter of sheeting the area.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell