The ladder length will depend on your ceiling height.
Attic ladder landing space.
Traditional folding attic stairs are an economical option to reach attic storage space.
Ensure that you have the right size ladder and that there s suitable landing space in the attic for safe mount and dismount from the ladder.
You can watch a video or read this short article about how to measure the landing space for an attic ladder.
A wider stair is a big plus for a customer who carries large loads in and out of the attic.
Measure from the dropped plumb bob out to where you expect the bottom of the ladder to contact the floor.
Full size attic ladders and stairways typically require an opening in the ceiling that is at least 22 1 2 x 54 inches.
The landing space of an attic ladder is defined as the actual foot print landing area that the stair will sit on the floor.
You must have a rough opening as shown for your model in table 2.
Telescoping attic stairways are a perfect solution where minimal landing space is available to pull down.
You can find stairs that ascend at a shallow angle stairs that take up minimal landing space or stairs that seal tightly to the ceiling so heat stays in the house.
Basic space requirements for an attic ladder full size attic ladders usually need an opening in the ceiling that is at least 22 1 2 x 54 inches.
Locate the folding attic ladder rough opening so that when you enter the storage area you will have adequate head clearance.
Illustration by ian worpole.
While you re at it take note of tread width.
Also make sure there is a suitable landing space in the attic so you can safely mount and dismount the ladder while carrying items.
Drop a plumb bob from the area where you expect the piano hinge to be located down to the floor.
How to measure landing space for attic ladders video 1 17 video demonstration of how to measure the landing space for century attic ladders.
Searching for a room adequate to this opening is your first step.
Having the correct amount of landing space is key to being able to properly extend the stairs for safe climbing.
Looking for a space adequate to this opening is your first step.
Also make sure there s enough floor space to accommodate the ladder when it s fully extended.
Additionally make sure there is a suitable landing space in the attic so you could safely mount as well as get down the ladder while bringing items.
Folding attic stairs are available in a variety of materials including wood aluminum and steel.