The door usually is counterbalanced to the ceiling with folding steel arms and two heavy duty springs.
How do you measure attic stairs.
For smaller attic ladder openings with a minimum measurement of 18 x 24 you will need to measure from the finished floor to the attic floor.
To convert your attic to living space you cannot provide access via a ladder.
Choose a stair that fits into the smallest of these measurements and is long.
Full size attic ladders usually need an opening in the ceiling that is at least 22 1 2 x 54 inches.
You can stand on the attic ladder to take the measurements if you feel it is steady enough to do so.
Extend the tape measure so that it reaches from the ceiling to the floor.
When it is time to replace your existing attic ladder it is easiest to replace the attic ladder with a new attic ladder of the same size.
Looking for a space adequate to this opening is your first step.
For larger stairs divide by 6 and for smaller stairs divide by 7.
Basic space requirements for an attic ladder.
Swing clearance measure and verify the amount of space available to swing out the stair sections of your ladder this extends beyond your attic opening.
Step 2 place a tape measure at the left side of the attic opening on the inside edge of any trim molding but the outside of the actual attic ladder frame.
What your attic probably does not have is a set of code compliant stairs.
The width and length of the rough opening and the ceiling height.
If the rise is 42 inches 110 cm after subtracting 6 7 feet 1 8 2 1 m for headroom and you want larger stairs for example divide 42 by 6.
Your attic may presently have a fixed ladder a pull down ladder or no ladder at all.
This article will explain how to measure your existing attic ladder opening to replace it with a new attic ladder of the same size.
Also make sure there is a suitable landing space in the attic so you can safely mount and dismount the ladder while carrying items.
This gives you the measurement for folding attic stairs.
Attic ladders are very convenient for homeowners.
An attic stair which is actually more of a ladder is a fairly simple apparatus consisting of a folding series of steps attached to a door.
Have your helper below note the measurement at the floor level.
You ll need at least three critical measurements.
Measure the rough opening s width and length in three different spots at the top and bottom of the framing.