Best Way to Install a Loft Ladder

I have to admit I have a confession to make. People constantly say to my wife how lucky she is to be married to me! My wife would question all and any aspect of that statement! People then qualify the statement by saying it must be amazing to have someone who can make all those things and do all those jobs.

To be fair to myself, I’m normally reliable when it comes to fixing things, although I do wait until there are half a dozen things, and fix them all at once. I will, however, have to put my hands up on this occasion. I have been meaning to fit a loft ladder to my loft for a long time (it’s too embarrassing to say how long), but suffice to say that the step ladder parked on the landing will no longer do! I shall have to fit one!

Loft ladders are a very clever and efficient way of making use of normally inaccessible and unused space, particularly in inner city and urban areas where space is often at a premium. We all have to reconsider how we use any space available to us in a practical and constructive way. Even if only used for storage, loft space is ideal, and a fitted loft ladder will enable the space to be used safely and effectively.

Loft ladders are normally made to suit three different ceiling heights – 2.3m (7ft 7in), 2.5m (8ft 3in) and 2.9-3m (9ft 6in-10ft).They normally operate on a slide and fold basis, or are the concertina type. Some loft ladders even incorporate a handrail. It may not be exactly the same make as your own chosen ladder but the principle is the same, and each ladder should carry its own fitting instructions.

The loft trapdoor must be hinged to open downwards, so the hinges provided must be fixed to the same side of the opening as the loft ladder. The trapdoor should be made from 19mm plywood, MDF or blockboard and must be fitted flush with the ceiling.

Lower the ladder to the floor. Engage the catches and make sure they are locked in position. Fit the loft ladder guide assembly to the frame with the screws provided and, Make sure that the climbing angle is correct by checking the special angle indicator on the side of the ladder. Slide down the two plastic stops to the top of the guide assembly and tighten all four screws. This will ensure that the ladder is always in the correct position for climbing into the loft.

Fix the pivot arm to the floor of the loft. Close the three sections together, making sure the catches lock in position, and push the ladder up fully into the loft. Slide the 2 plastic stops up to the underside of the guide assembly and tighten the four screws. This ensures the ladder clears the trapdoor when closed. Attach the handrails to either side of the middle or top section.

To fix the automatic latch, position the latch in the center of the frame surround and opposite the trapdoor hinges. The latch must be set back by the thickness of the trapdoor.

Engage the pointed marker into the latch and close the trap door. Where the point marks the trap door, is the position for fixing the striking plate. Test the position by opening and closing the trapdoor until you’re happy with the smooth operation.