How Do You Messure For A Replacement Attic Access Ladder

If you re installing pull down attic stairs for the first time you ll likely need to cut the hole yourself.

How do you messure for a replacement attic access ladder.

Also make sure there is a suitable landing space in the attic so you can safely mount and dismount the ladder while carrying items. You can watch a video or read this short article about how to measure the rough opening for an attic ladder. You can stand on the attic ladder to take the measurements if you feel it is steady enough to do so. First if there is an existing stairway measure from the outside to the outside of the existing box frame.

The rough opening is the length vs. The length is simply the dimension between the two pieces of lumber that form the end of the opening. Do not measure the inside of the box frame and as that is not a true rough opening measurement. Most attic ladders cover a range of ceiling heights so it s important to know the exact measurement you re working with.

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. If your home already has an access hatch and you re only adding a ladder you can skip to the next step for instructions on how to install a ladder. 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. So with a 24 on center and framing lumber being 1 1 2 thick the dimension between the inside edges of the two joists is 22 1 2 24 3 4 3 4.

That s dimensions between the framing of your attic joists which is typically 24 on center. Here are a few guidelines for choosing the right area and cutting an appropriate. The rough opening for a full size attic. Width dimensions of the ladder when installed on the attic s floor.

Also make sure the space leading to the attic ladder is comfortable enough to carry all the types of objects you ll bring to the attic. Looking for a space adequate to this opening is your first step.