You can watch a video or read this short article about how to measure the landing space for an attic ladder.
Attic ladder landing space.
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.
Shop folding attic stairs telescoping attic stairs.
The compact attic ladder requires a minimum height of 28 and minimum depth of 44 inside the attic above and behind the opening.
Illustration by ian worpole.
Having the correct amount of landing space is key to being able to properly extend the stairs for safe climbing.
Folding attic stairs are available in a variety of materials including wood aluminum and steel.
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.
How to measure landing space for attic ladders video 1 17 video demonstration of how to measure the landing space for century attic ladders.
While you re at it take note of tread width.
Also make sure there s enough floor space to accommodate the ladder when it s fully extended.
Measure from the dropped plumb bob out to where you expect the bottom of the ladder to contact the floor.
You must have a rough opening as shown for your model in table 2.
Drop a plumb bob from the area where you expect the piano hinge to be located down to 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.
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.
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.
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.
Looking for a space adequate to this opening is your first step.
Telescoping attic stairways are a perfect solution where minimal landing space is available to pull down.
Full size attic ladders and stairways typically require an opening in the ceiling that is at least 22 1 2 x 54 inches.