attic storage

[AllenB]

In the process of choosing a builder for a new 20x24 detached garage. It'll have a 8-12 pitch. I plan on using a pull down stairs and put storage up above. I'm not planning on storing pallets of anvils up there or anything, but want to make sure it's sturdy enough to walk on and for medium storage over time. What type of trusses are recommended, spacing between etc. should I plan for? Not looking for the bare minimum but also not going overboard.
Thanks!

 

[Stuart in MN]

Look for information on 'attic trusses' or 'storage trusses'. They look like this: http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=126000

 

[rponfick]

Explain your requirements to the designer of your truss system. They can design just about anything. I wish I had gone with something they call an attic room truss that gives you more open space. I hit my head a lot with mine, so much so that my wife bought me a hardhat. I am currently modifying one of my bottom truss chords to allow for windshield space for my car lift. I have a roadster, so with my 9' ceiling height I can get pretty good clearance.

If you ever plan a lift, allow for more than normal ceiling height. Will save a lot of grief in the future.

Ralph.

 

[pattenp]

Which way will the truss run? The 24' or 20' direction? If you are looking to have head room where you can stand up and walk around you may need to go with a minimum of 10/12 pitch.

 

[srmofo]

they are also called spread web trusses. at the minimum they will have a 2x6 bottom cord, but if you really want it to be sturdy then 2x8 would be better IMHO. The cost is difference is barely noticable by the time you are finished, and it never hurts to do more than the minimum

 

[eeyore1]

Shop around and get the pull down stairs that are 32" wide not the standard 24" size it will make a big improvement , and get the higher load limit 350 lps. ACE hardware had the best deal on line.

 

[thdewey]

Shop around and get the pull down stairs that are 32" wide not the standard 24" size it will make a big improvement , and get the higher load limit 350 lps. ACE hardware had the best deal on line.

That's a great idea. Remember to tell the truss engineer about this. He'll need to beef up adjoining trusses. Better to get it in the plan early.

BTW I used 24' Attic trusses and I lifted them by hand. In retrospect, probably should have got a crane of some kind. If you do lift by hand be very careful. Almost got hit by one standing it up!