DIY Network

Under Stairs Closet Learn how to convert wasted space under your stairs into valuable extra storage. From "Wasted Spaces" episode DWSP-101

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Removing a Stud

• Use a reciprocating saw and angle it at the top of the stud.
  
  
• After cutting the stud at the top, simply pull or kick the bottom loose and pull it out.

Tip: When using a reciprocating saw it's a good idea to have the saw running before you make contact with a stud.

Hint: To keep the reciprocating saw from getting stuck, keep the blade hard against the wall.

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Most home improvement stores sell different size air register covers. If you buy the cover first then measure your cuts to fit it, it's a lot easier than trying to retrofit a cover to the opening.

Cutting Down an Air Register

• Switch the blade to a metal cutting blade on the reciprocating saw.

• Remove the frame of the air register by prying the nails away from the framing, then simply pop off the top frame. Set the frame (cover) aside. You will use it again.

• Using the reciprocating saw carefully cut the register along the pre-determined line.

• Replace the frame and cover with foil duct tape suitable for air registers.

• Discard the metal very carefully as the edges will be incredibly sharp.

Tips:

• It's a good idea to wear leather gloves when you are cutting metal because the metal will be extremely sharp.

• Before changing or moving any duct work, it's recommended to consult an HVAC professional.

A hinged seat is created for the bench in order to access the air register—and for more storage — and notice the extra storage shelves above the seat.

Building a Bench and Seat

1. Take measurements based on the size of the grill.
   
   
2. Then cut 2 x 4's to size for the frame of the bench seat.

3. Anchor the 2 x 4's to the floor and the studs in the wall.

Building an Alcove

1. To create an alcove, enclose the frame in plywood.

2. The plywood for the back of the alcove has to have something to attach to, so with a screw gun and screws, install 1 x 2 braces on the inside of a closet.

3. The plywood that Karl Champley used is 3/4" birch plywood, so it's strong enough so we don't need to frame the back of our alcove. If you use 1/2" plywood, cross braces are recommended.

4. Screw plywood into the walls with a screw gun and screws to give the alcove added support.

Tip: Our alcove doesn't go all the way to the back of the closet, giving the family more storage space. If your alcove is going to hit the back wall of the closet, then you can use the wall studs to anchor your plywood instead of installing braces as suggested in step 2 above.

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