How to measure landing space for attic ladders video 1 17 video demonstration of how to measure the landing space for century attic ladders.
Attic ladder landing space.
Folding attic stairs are available in a variety of materials including wood aluminum and steel.
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.
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.
Searching for a room adequate to this opening is your first step.
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 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.
Allow ample room for the swing clearance and the landing space of the folding attic ladder when it is opened see figure 2 and table 2.
Illustration by ian worpole.
Also make sure there is a suitable landing space in the attic so you can safely mount and dismount the ladder while carrying items.
Measure from the dropped plumb bob out to where you expect the bottom of the ladder to contact the floor.
Drop a plumb bob from the area where you expect the piano hinge to be located down to the floor.
Also make sure there s enough floor space to accommodate the ladder when it s fully extended.
Looking for a space adequate to this opening is your first step.
A wider stair is a big plus for a customer who carries large loads in and out of the attic.
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.
The compact attic ladder requires a minimum height of 28 and minimum depth of 44 inside the attic above and behind the opening.
Traditional folding attic stairs are an economical option to reach attic storage space.
You must have a rough opening as shown for your model in table 2.
While you re at it take note of tread width.
Full size attic ladders and stairways typically require an opening in the ceiling that is at least 22 1 2 x 54 inches.
The ladder length will depend on your ceiling height.
Shop folding attic stairs telescoping attic stairs.