Basic space requirements for an attic ladder.
Attic ladder too big.
The 2012 international residential code requires an attic access opening for attics with an area greater than 30 square feet and a vertical height in excess of 30 inches.
The rough framed opening.
A new lower section would need to be purchased from the manufacturer.
Looking for a space adequate to this opening is your first step.
Many attics are not big enough to be accessible with a full set of stairs nor is there the space in many homes for a full staircase.
Installing a pull down attic ladder is essential for safer easier access to your attic.
When built correctly the stairs are concealed within the attic itself.
If the attic ladder looks like figure 10 then both of the legs are too long and need to be trimmed further.
From inside the attic check for obstructions when the door is closed check shims installation cords to make sure nothing is interfering with the door shutting properly.
Because of this a set of pull down attic stairs is the best way to reach the attic.
If the attic ladder looks like figure 8 then both of the legs are too short and the attic ladder is not safe to use.
If your frame is not square insert shims to square it.
We ll show you how to cut out frame the opening then install a fo.