Todd Sumamno
Loft ladders represent a vital functional item, with several important aspects to consider when purchasing one. What are they? Feel free to read on!
Loft ladder dimensions
The first thing you need to do before deciding on the right loft ladder is to measure your loft space. There are many models of various dimensions available, so it’s extremely important to take accurate, precise measurements. The most important factor is the size of the opening in the ceiling, to which the size of the loft ladder must be matched. Another crucial factor is the height of the room.
The height of the loft ladder must fit the height of the room, as this is the only way to ensure that the base of the loft ladder will safely rest on the floor when unfolded. This is particularly important in the case of a sectional loft ladder. In the case of scissor and folding loft ladders, however, this is somewhat less important. Their length and angle can be adjusted within the available limits.
You will need to check the width of the steps, the distances between the steps and the dimensions of the hatch covering the opening to the loft in the model you are interested in.
What types of attic ladders can you choose from? The available models
The FAKRO’s range of loft ladders can be found at https://www.fakro.co.uk/loft_ladders/. The global manufacturer provides designs made of top class materials, carefully and precisely constructed. The most popular types of attic ladders available include sectional, folding and scissor and ship ladders.
Sectional attic stairs
The most popular of all the folding type staircases. They are usually built with three or four sections folding upwards. Unfortunately, they are quite heavy, so handling them requires considerable effort.
Folding and scissor stairs
Both of these types of staircases fold down like an accordion. Their lightweight construction makes them easy to use. They are adaptable to the height of the room without any problems. When folded, they take up little space and therefore are designed for small openings.
Ship ladder
They need to be permanently mounted and look like a ladder. They are useful wherever the loft is used regularly.
What is the best material to make an attic ladder from?
Staircases made of many types of wood, primarily pine, are widely available for sale. You can also order metal constructions, usually made of steel or aluminium. The final decision depends on the customer’s preferences, and also the budget.
Both solutions are durable and resistant to mechanical damage. On the other hand, there are differences in weight, aesthetics, resistance to moisture and other external factors.
Safety is particularly important when choosing an attic ladder
While everyone wants to get the safest solutions for their home, this aspect is often neglected when it comes to the final selection. Keep in mind that manufacturers provide varying levels of safety in this respect.
You should check whether the steps of the ladder are non-slip. This enhances the stability of climbing up and down the ladder. A mortise lock ensures that once the hatch is closed, the stairs won’t collapse hitting the head of the person below. They will remain locked until the lock is released. A safety feature is the factory-fitted handrail. The user is provided with additional support when climbing up and down the stairs. The risk of tripping with an immediate fall is very low in this case.
What to be aware of when buying a loft ladder? Overview
Here are the key things you should know if you are interested in buying a loft ladder:
- take very accurate measurements of the attic, the opening and the stairs themselves before purchasing,
- the loft ladder is usually made of metal or wood,
- the most popular are the sectional stairs, consisting of 3 sections,
- folding and scissor stairs are the most lightweight and easiest to handle. They can be easily adjusted to the height of the room,
- stairs can be upgraded with a handrail for increased safety.
Brittany
