Werner's Easy Access Attic Ladder 7 - Install the Frame

by DoItYourself Staff

Before Proceeding: You must have a rough opening in the ceiling measuring 22 1/2" (22 1/4" min. to 22 3/4" max.) x 54".

The opening should be lined up with the ceiling joists.
Make a vertical center line on the hinged end of the rough opening.

Position the Frame

Step 1. Lift the frame through rafters (See Figure 21) and connect four position hangers. Note: Position four hangers over four rivets on frame, two on either side (See Figure 24). Hangers have multiple teardrop holes that can be used on 2 x 4 to 2 x 8 joist construction. To determine which teardrop to hook over rivet, measure top of rafter to bottom of ceiling (See Table 3).

Step 2. Lower frame into the rough opening, making sure all four position hangers hang from the joists (See Figure 22).

Step 3. Push the frame as far against the hinged end opening as possible (See Figure 22).

Step 4. Attach the four plastic clips to the frame - one behind each position hanger. These clips will assist in adjusting the depth of the of the frame to be flush to the ceiling (See Figure 23).

Step 5. Adjust the four position hanger thumb screws until the plastic clips are flush against the ceiling. Your frame should now be suspended in the opening and flush with the ceiling (See Figure 23).

Make sure metal frame is all the way toward the HINGED END and square.

Step 6. To temporally affix the frame to the opening, place washer on lag screw and drive lag screws into the two slots designated with 1 in each side of the frame (See Figure 24).

Step 7. Remove position hangers and clips. Your frame is now temporarily secure.

Note: The center mark of your frame should be aligned with the vertical center line at the hinged end (See Figure 25). If it's not, tap the edges of the head plate to center it.