How To Install Attic Access Ladder
Extend the ladder fully and drill for the feet.
How to install attic access ladder. One person should be in the attic and one person should be on the lower floor. This step is necessary regardless of whether you re expanding an existing hatchway or creating new attic access. In this video this old house general contractor tom silva explains how to install attic stairs. The foot gets attached with a bolt and lock nut.
Snap chalk lines onto the ceiling to represent the rough opening of the attic staircase. While the cost of doing this work yourself reduces the cost of the project from about 650 to 220 a professional licensed contractor should complete the job from needing a second set of hands to making structural changes and modifying existing piping wiring and air ducts this work is full of potential pitfalls and requires specialized. Mark the holes on each side drill em out and attach the feet with the provided bolts and lock nuts. Slide the foot over the ladder rail and check that each foot is flush with the floor.
So stop worrying about how to install an attic ladder and let lowe s coordinate your attic stairs installation. Drill holes through foot and ladder rail and secure with the bolts provided. Use a reciprocating saw to cut joists and nails holding any joists that must be removed. Hiring an attic ladder installation service.
Ensure the hinge side is on the correct end. Mark rough opening of new fold down staircase on the ceiling joists in the attic. Leading with the hinge side of the ladder lift the ladder assembly up into the opening using the temporary support boards as a guide. You will need two people for this step.
To finish your project get some spray foam and insulate the gap between the joists and the ladder frame. Extend ladder to the floor and add adjustable feet. Peek into the attic to make sure there aren t any ducts wires or pipes in the way.