A knee wall is a short wall that is typically less than three feet in height and is used to provide support for the roof of a building. Knee walls are often found in attics or rooms with sloped ceilings. Adding a knee wall door to your knee wall can provide easy access to storage or living space while also maintaining the aesthetic of your room. Here are the steps to follow to build a knee wall door:
Measure and Plan
Before beginning construction, you will need to measure the opening for your knee wall door and determine the size of the door you will need. You will also need to decide on the type of door you will be building, whether it is a hinged door or a sliding door.
Gather Materials
Once you have determined the size and type of door you will be building, gather the necessary materials. You will need wood for the frame and door, hinges, a latch or lock, and any other hardware you may require.
Build the Frame
To build the frame for your knee wall door, you will need to measure and cut pieces of wood to the appropriate size. The frame will consist of four pieces of wood, two for the sides and two for the top and bottom. Use a saw to cut the pieces to the appropriate length, then use a drill to screw them together.
Install Hinges
Once the frame is in place, you will need to install the hinges for your door. The number of hinges required will depend on the size and weight of your door. Typically, two or three hinges will be sufficient. Place the hinges on the side of the door that will be attached to the frame, then attach the other end of the hinge to the frame using screws.
Attach the Door
Once the hinges are in place, attach the door to the frame by screwing the hinges into the door. Test the door to ensure that it opens and closes smoothly.
Install Latch or Lock
Depending on your needs, you may want to install a latch or lock on your knee wall door. This will provide added security and prevent the door from accidentally opening. Choose a latch or lock that is appropriate for the size and weight of your door, and install it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Finish the Door
Once the door is in place, you may want to finish it to match the surrounding walls. This could include painting or staining the door, or adding trim or molding around the edges.
Install Weatherstripping
To prevent drafts and maintain temperature control in your room, install weatherstripping around the edges of your knee wall door. This will help to keep air from leaking through the cracks around the door.
Test and Adjust
Once your knee wall door is complete, test it to ensure that it opens and closes smoothly and latches securely. If necessary, make any adjustments to the hinges or latch to ensure proper function.
In conclusion, building a knee wall door can provide easy access to storage or living space while maintaining the aesthetic of your room. By following these steps, you can create a high-quality knee wall door that will provide easy access for years to come.