Keep in mind that full-size attic ladders usually need an opening in the ceiling that is at least 22 1/2 x 54 inches. As a rule of thumb, pre-made attic stairs or an attic ladder from a vendor are sized as follows: Classic size: 22.5 x 54 inches.
The opening for a full-size attic ladder should be at least 22.5 by 54 inches. But the most popular range are: Popular widths include: 35.5 inch, 43 inch, 47 inch, 51 inch, 55 inch, Popular box lengths are: 21.5 inch, 23.5 inch, 27.5 inch, 31.5 inch.
Measure the rough opening in your ceiling, both the width and length. Standard openings are 22.5” x 54”, but some homes have wider openings.
Make sure you accurately measure your opening size, floor-to-ceiling height, as well as swing clearance and landing space, so you select a ladder that will fit the space you have. Whether you prefer lightweight and long-lasting aluminum, or economical wood, we have attic ladders for your various needs.
To work out the correct height of loft ladder you will require, measure from the floor of your landing to the top of your roof joints, to the floor of your loft. Most loft ladders will reach up to 3m. Don't forget to measure the dimensions of your loft hatch too, as you'll need this information too.
The minimum attic access size is 22 by 30 inches. A standard attic access size is 22 1/2 by 54 inches. You can locate attic access points in the ceiling or wall. Attic access must be large enough to fit any appliances in the attic.
To work safely, your extension ladder needs to be pitched at a ratio of 4:1. So for every 4 feet up, you need to move the ladder 1 foot out. This is known as the '1 in 4' rule. So, if you want to work on a 20ft wall, the ladder needs to be moved 5ft out.
For most homeowners, aluminum attic ladders are the easiest to install.
Timber ladders can start to weaken over time. If you're only going up and down once or twice a year the timber is fine, but the aluminium makes an attic space easier and more enjoyable to use more frequently.
Durable Aluminum Construction: Made of high-quality aluminum, this attic ladder provides strength and durability, allowing it to support up to 375 pounds.
Building Code defines the attic as length x width, floor of the attic. That produces a "square footage" number. That's also how ventilation manufacturers generally define the size of an attic. It's the most accurate measurement of the space we are trying to vent.
Ladder Rung Width: 16 Inches
Per OSHA 1910.23(b)(4), ladder rungs, steps, and cleats must have a minimum clear width of 16 inches (measured before installation of ladder safety systems) for fixed ladders.
Added home value
The other benefits of adding a roof ladder to your home add up to real savings and improvements. This adds resale value to your home overall, meaning a roof ladder is one of the smarter investments you can make to improve your property.
Most general contractors charge a labor fee of 10% to 20% of the total project cost. Depending on the complexity of your attic ladder installation, this amounts to anywhere from $100 to $500 for two to four hours of work.
Buildings with combustible ceiling or roof construction shall have an attic access opening to attic areas that exceed 30 square feet (2.8m squared) and have a vertical height of 30 inches (762 mm) or more.
Scissor stairs are a top quality alternative for attic ladders. Especially in professional applications where reliability and labour safety is required.
Installation requires two people.
Location of the attic access point
Keep in mind that full-size attic ladders usually need an opening in the ceiling that is at least 22 1/2 x 54 inches. As a rule of thumb, pre-made attic stairs or an attic ladder from a vendor are sized as follows: Classic size: 22.5 x 54 inches. Medium size: 25.5 x 54 inches.
Follow the 4 to 1 ratio ladder rule: set the base 1 foot out from the wall for every 4 feet it reaches up. This can be estimated by counting rungs, which are about one foot apart.
Size. Choosing the right size or length is just as important as the ladder style. One of the most common and potentially dangerous ladder selection mistakes is purchasing a ladder that is either too short or too long.
The base of the ladder should be placed so that it is one foot away from the building for every four feet of hight to where the ladder rests against the building. This is known as the 4 to 1 rule.
You determine this by multiplying the LENGTH x WIDTH of the space. For example, if you attic floor area is 30′ x 50′ then you're measuring 1,500 sq ft. Check out our *NEW* SuperPerf™ AtticFoil™ that was designed for laying on the attic floor in cold climates.
While Werner offers a large selection of attic ladders in various lengths and material, they are designed to fit standard rough openings of: 22-1/2“ x 54”, 25” x 54”, 25-1/2” x 64” and 30” x 54.”
An opening not less than 36 inches by 36 inches (914 mm by 914 mm) shall be provided to any attic area having a clear height of over 30 inches (762 mm). Clear headroom of not less than 30 inches (762 mm) shall be provided at the attic space at or above the opening.