Installing An Attic Staircase

In many homes the only access to the attic is a small crawl space in a closet or garage ceiling.

Installing an attic staircase.

Fasten the staircase to the joists with 4 inch lag screws. Installing new attic stairs. We ll show you how to cut out frame the opening then install a fo. Labor cost to install pull down attic stairs.

12 slip the collapsed staircase into the attic then drop it down so that it rests on the cleats. This step is necessary regardless of whether you re expanding an existing hatchway or creating new attic access. Do not extend the legs to the floor yet. Check that the assembly is level and shim between the stair frame and joists.

Cut out attic access opening photo by karim shamsi basha. So stop worrying about how to install an attic ladder and let lowe s coordinate your attic stairs installation. Place attic assembly on supports. If you re planning to convert the attic for additional living space.

Certain steps specific to your model may not be covered here. Pull down the stairs and drill pilot holes through the side framing of the staircase and into the joists. Whether you already have an existing cavity in your roof or need to create a new one t. Contact lowe s today to help with installing attic ladders or.

Make sure you have someone helping from the garage level so you don t get stuck in the attic. Peek into the attic to make sure there aren t any ducts wires or pipes in the way. Installation requires two people. Things that would increase prices include removal of an existing set of stairs structural modifications and the moving of wiring air ducts and piping.

Pull the stairs down until the hinges are extended image 1. While it might seem like a big job an attic ladder installation is something you can handle if you just take it step by step. Installing a pull down attic ladder is essential for safer easier access to your attic. Snap chalk lines onto the ceiling to represent the rough opening of the attic staircase.

Lowe s will coordinate your attic ladder installation service to remove your old attic ladder handle your new attic stair installation and haul away the old unit. Pretty soon you ll be wondering why you didn t add an attic ladder to your home years ago. Improper installation may result in serious injury. Read and follow the manufacturer s instructions for your attic stair model.

Tap shims around the staircase to center it in the opening. Here are a few important things to keep in mind before you install an attic ladder.