How To Install Folding Attic Stairs

Pull the stairs down until the hinges are extended image 1.

How to install folding attic stairs.

Place attic assembly on supports. Cut around ceiling trim with a utility knife. Secure each pine tread with four screws. Then use a wrench to tighten the threaded ladder rods that pass beneath each tread.

Attach temporary support boards to keep the ladder. Remove existing attic stairs with a reciprocating saw. Press down on the stairs to ensure full extension. Step 1fully extend the folding section of the stairway.

I found these attic stairs to be the best for your money around 200 00 with free shipping. Step 2fold the bottom section of the stairway under the middle section so that the top and middle sections form a straight line fig. Determine the area where you want to place your stairs. In this video this old house general contractor tom silva explains how to install attic stairs.

How to install a folding attic ladder step 1. Do not extend the legs to the floor yet. Make sure you have someone helping from the garage level so you don t get stuck in the attic. Tie ladder sections together to keep them from separating.

You ll then use the ceiling joists to determine the final location. Step 3measure distance a and mark the distance on the a side of the bottom stringer. Check that the assembly is level and shim between the stair frame and joists. Next using an electric drill pop a screw up through the drywall in the ceiling as a reference point so that when you go up in the attic you ll be able to locate it and find the general location of the attic stair.

Slip the stair treads into the angled dadoes milled in the two stringers. Leave out the top three treads so you can easily fit the staircase between the header guide frame mounted above the door panel. Use a reciprocating saw to cut joists and nails holding any joists that must be removed.