Overhead solution

Used up all your wall space? Think higher is better and store items on the the ceiling! - by Better Homes and Gardens

Better Homes and Gardens

Don’t just use the walls and floor – look up and discover new space! This handy assembly utilises the ceiling area that would otherwise go to waste. It’s perfect for lightweight items that take up a lot of space, such as Christmas decorations. It’s also easy to build and install.

Gather your supplies

• Top rails (4) 1200 x 89 x 19mm dressed pine

• Bottom rails (4) 1200 x 64 x 19mm dressed pine

• Rail connectors (4) 1200 x 42 x 19mm dressed pine

• Mounting board 1600 x 1200 x 15mm CD plywood

You’ll also need

Pencil, combination square; drill and bits; various screws; PVA glue; plastic storage containers with secure locking lids; masking tape

Here’s how

Step 1 Using a combination square draw a line down centre of top and bottom rails, then drill pilot holes through rails along line.

Step 2 Sit 1 rail connector on edge and spread glue along it. Centre 1 top rail on rail connector and screw together.

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Step 3 Turn over and spread glue on other edge of rail connector. Centre 1 bottom rail on it and screw together. Repeat Steps 2 and 3 to create 3 more rail assemblies.

Better Homes and Gardens

Step 4 Place 1 rail assembly on mounting board, parallel with the 1200mm edges. Using storage containers as guides, mark out positions of remaining rail assemblies

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Step 5 Spread glue on back of top rail. Return to position on mounting board and screw through top rail to secure. Repeat for remaining rail assemblies

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Step 6 Mark out position of mounting board on ceiling with masking tape. Find the ceiling joists by tapping on the ceiling and listening for the change in sound. Confirm by drilling a few small test holes. Transfer the location of the ceiling joists to the mounting board and drill pilot holes at these points.

Better Homes and Gardens

Step 7 With a helper, lift mounting board and rail assembly and line up with masking tape. Screw into ceiling joists through pilot holes drilled in mounting board. STEP 8 Fill your plastic storage containers then slide them in so the lips sit on the rails.