A Buyers Guide To Loft Ladders

Buying a loft ladder might seem like an easy task. You just pick the one you like the look of, buy it and fit it. Right?

Well actually, no. There is a bit more involved with the task than that, which is why we have written this buyer’s guide. This should help you figure out which loft ladder you need, and ensure that you get it right first time.

There are a number of things you need to consider before you make this all important purchase. This article should help you ensure you haven’t left anything out.

What kind of budget have you got?

This is an important factor to consider, as it will influence the quality of the loft ladder you buy. It is important to remember that buying cheap will probably mean buying something that isn’t going to be very stable. If you want a good, trustworthy and solid loft ladder, you will need to pay more money to get it.

A Selection of the Best Selling Loft Ladders

What type of loft ladder is going to be right for your needs?

Consider the different types of ladders that we mentioned in our introduction to loft ladders. There are concertina ladders, folding ladders, sliding ladders, and those which are available in either aluminium or timber.

You may like the look of those big chunky timber loft ladders. But you need to have the right amount of space inside your loft to be able to store them. If size is an issue then a concertina ladder might be better.

The most important thing here is to read all the information and specifications for each and every loft ladder you like the look of. If you do this you will see how much room is required and what length ladder is needed for the height of the room. If you neglect to read this information, you are much more likely to arrive home with the wrong loft ladder.

How does the loft ladder attach itself to your loft space?

All loft ladders attach in one of two ways. They either attach to the hatch, which drops down out of the hatch itself, or they attach to the joists, i.e. the hatch frame, if you like.

What you need to do is to see how each possible ladder attaches, and whether your loft hatch is suitable for those needs. Quite often you can actually download the installation instructions so you can have a look at them prior to buying your loft ladder. Make sure you measure up thoroughly and double check everything. This will enable you to buy the right ladder first time.

You should get exact measurements with each loft ladder. You then need to make sure your loft hatch matches up to these measurements. In addition to this, be aware that some styles of loft ladder are available in more than one size. If this occurs, make sure you buy the right size!

What distance is it between the floor and the ceiling in the room where the loft ladder is going to be used?

Get someone else to help you measure the distance. Each loft ladder usually has both minimum and maximum heights that it can work for. So for example you may see it listed as 2430mm to 3000mm. The measurements will always be in millimetres, so this is 243 centimetres to 300 centimetres – or three metres.

You should find that most loft ladders will be suitable for your needs, as many modern buildings are within those same ranges. But don’t just assume – always double check so you aren’t disappointed when your new loft ladder arrives.

What size is the hatch opening?

This is another important measurement that you need to know. Measure the internal measurements in both directions, and make sure you find out if any other measurements are required as well.

Once again all loft ladders should come with explicit information on the size your loft hatch should be. These will be in millimetres too, and are usually stated as being the minimum size your hatch should be for that particular loft ladder to work as it should do.

You may also need to measure the depth of the hatch. Once again you will find that we are dealing in minimum measurements here.

How much space is available to store the ladder in the loft when it is closed and not in use below?

Depending on the shape and style of the ladder, some take up a lot more space inside the loft than others. For example, a two or three section ladder of a sliding style is going to take up more space than a concertina style ladder.

This could be a problem if you are tight for space for some reason up above. Go into your loft space and measure it properly up there as well. You need to be sure your ladder can happily sit up in the loft when not in use.

If space is a problem and you find that two or three section ladders just won’t work, focus on getting a concertina or telescopic ladder instead. If you buy one that is supposed to fit within the actual size of the hatch, you shouldn’t have any problems. But do double check all those important measurements first, as we have said before.

In conclusion

It is clear that measurements are the key to successfully buying and fitting the right loft ladder for your needs. It might take a bit of time to do all the measuring up before you make your purchase, but you can then be assured that your loft ladder WILL fit when it arrives.

There is nothing worse than buying a loft ladder because you like the look of it, or because it was on sale. It doesn’t matter how cheap it is if you cannot actually use it!

Finally, remember that if you are going to use it a lot, you need to buy a good strong ladder. Don’t skimp on getting something cheaper that just won’t last.