Overhead solution
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.
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.
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
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
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.
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.
