Can you use your attic for storage?
Short answer. Many attics can hold light storage, but only where the framing was designed for it: the residential code's design loads are 10 pounds per square foot for attics without storage and 20 for attics with limited storage. Keep stored items off the insulation, away from the eaves so they do not block soffit vents, and out of the attic altogether if they cannot handle extreme heat.
Check what the framing was built for
- Trusses: most modern Georgia homes use engineered trusses. The bottom chords may be designed only for the lighter attic load. The truss drawings, if you can get them, show the design load. Never cut or remove truss webs to make room.
- Limited storage areas: the code ties the heavier storage load to areas with at least about 42 inches of clear height, reached by a pull down stair or access opening.
- Older rafter framing: ceiling joists in older homes may be small and widely spaced, so heavy boxes can crack ceilings below.
Protect the insulation and airflow
- Do not lay plywood directly on top of insulation and compress it; compressed insulation loses much of its value. Raised storage platforms or decking over taller joists solve this.
- Keep the outer few feet near the eaves clear, so soffit intake and baffles stay open.
- Do not stack items against ductwork or an air handler.
What attic heat does to belongings
A Georgia attic in summer runs far hotter than the outdoors. Photos, documents, candles, paint, electronics, vinyl records and anything with adhesive suffer. Humid air also invites mildew on cardboard. Plastic bins with lids are better than boxes.
A roofing bonus
Walk the storage area with a flashlight after heavy rain once in a while. Storage areas are where homeowners first spot stains on the decking. See attic heat and shingles and common roof leak causes.