How to Install an Attic Hatch and Ladder Part 3

In Parts 1 and 2 of this guide to installing an attic hatch and ladder, you cut an opening in the attic and fitted a frame around it. This frame is the basis for your ladder and hatch. In this section of the guide, you will now learn how to fit the hatch to your frame, add the ladder and add caulking around the hatch and frame to ensure that the attic door is draft proof. Once you have fitted the ladder, you should be able to dispense with the step ladder, but make sure that you are standing in a safe place whenever you are using power tools.

Step 1 - Fit the Hatch

Locate the attic hatch and mounting hinge in your kit. You should be able to place the outside of the hatch around the edge of the frame. Have a friend hold this in place while you add the screws to the edge of the frame, making sure that the lumber can fully support the weight of the attic hatch. If you are unsure, reinforce the frame before fitting the attic hatch.

Step 2 - Add the Springs

Take out the springs which have to be fitted next. Place them in the frame above the hinge that you have just installed, so that they hang down in front of the hatch. use the drill to install the screws, and then fit the header-guide between these 2 springs. This will ensure that the whole mechanism is completely safe. Once you have added the springs, fit the pulley to either side of the frame opposite to the attic hatch hinge.

Step 3 - Add the Ladder

Fit the ladder into the hole, and push the ladder into the pulley connections. The cables which hold the ladder in place should allow it to drop into place when the attic hatch is opened, so you will need to follow the ladder maker's guidelines for installing the different ladders. If you are using a wooden ladder, for example, you may need to go into the attic and pinch the slide bars together so that all of the stair treads are held in place. Make sure that you follow the instructions, and then screw the cables tightly into position against the frames.

Step 4 - Finishing Up

Remove the supporting lumber from the edge of the frame by reversing the screw directions, and then tighten to get it into a good position. you should then be able to add a layer of caulking to the edge of the frame, both above and below the ceiling. This will keep out any drafts, and prevent the area around the attic ladder from getting too cold during the winter months.