How to Choose an Attic Ladder System

Not all that long ago, the attic ladder and stairway industry operated with no set of minimum standards in place. But in the late 1990s, the industry finally decided to become more organized and safety-conscious by implementing a series of building regulations. Even still, there are a wide range of different attic ladder and hidden stairway systems available to choose from. Here are some considerations to keep in mind when purchasing and installing your own attic ladder.

There are two basic types of attic ladders – pull-down and folding.

Pull-down attic ladders descend from the attic hatchway in one singular piece which is attached to the rectangular hatch door. This type of attic ladder system is traditionally sturdier and more stable than the folding ladder system, however, a pull-down ladder is substantially more difficult to install.

Folding attic ladders are simply that; attic ladders that fold up to fit inside the ceiling hatch. This type of ladder installation is better suited for smaller attics or attics in which there is not a lot of room for gaining entrance.

Folding ladders can be purchased in either wood or aluminum. Wooden ladders are easier to fold, but aluminum ladders are lighter and resistant to rot and splinters. This is basically a preference of choice issue.

Whenever purchasing an attic ladder, it’s a good idea to choose one with at least a 250- to 300-pound weight limit.

Important Tip #1 – Because many local authorities have stringent laws and fire codes in place regarding firewalls, you must find out if your municipal allows the installation of an attic ladder system.

Before you purchase an attic ladder, be sure you check the dimensions very carefully. Some attic ladders may list the dimensions from the floor to ceiling while others may list them as the floor to the attic floor.

Important Tip #2 – Before you begin your attic ladder installation; be sure to read over the instructions at least two times. Installing an attic ladder system isn’t the easiest job in the world and if you’ve never done it before, it can prove challenging. And don’t forget – check your floor to make sure that it is level or all of your hard work could be for nothing.

On to Part 3 - Attic Makeovers

Dave Donovan is a freelance copywriter living in Atco, NJ.  An electrician for 15 years, an injury forced him to pursue his true passion - writing.