Create a Sliding Storage System On the Garage Ceiling

 

Photo 1: Measure

Measure the top of the tote to determine the width of the tote rims (3/4 in.) and the size of the bottom flanges of the carriages (in our case, 3 in.).

Photo 2: Bottom flanges

Cut 3-in.-wide strips of 3/4-in. plywood for the bottom flange. Center them on 4-ft.-long 2x4s, then glue and screw them. Use 2-in. screws every 10 in.

Photo 3: Complete the carriages

Flip the carriage assemblies over. Center the 5-in.- wide plywood top flanges and glue and screw them to complete the carriage assemblies.

Photo 4: Mark joists

Locate the ceiling joists with a stud finder and snap chalk lines to mark them. Probe with a finish nail to make sure the lines fall on joist centers.

Photo 5: Screw in place

Mark each carriage 12 in. from the end and align the mark with the joist location. Screw the carriage temporarily to each joist on one side of the flange with 3-in. screws.

Photo 6: Mark the carriage locations

Cut a 2x4 template from your tote dimensions and mark the location of the top edge of the next carriage. Mark the rear side as well, then screw it and the other carriages in place on one side only.

Photo 7: Test the fit

Check the fit of the totes and make sure the rims have maximum bearing on the lower flanges. Make any necessary adjustments.

Photo 8: Drive lags at joists

Drill 3/16-in. pilot holes in the top flanges. Then drive pairs of 3-1/2-in. lag screws into each joist, removing the temporary screws as you go. Use a minimum of four lag screws per carriage.

Photo 9: Install stops

Mark the centers of the carriages and screw a 1x2 stop along the marks. The stop will keep the totes from sliding too far into the carriages.