In this guide, we’ll walk you through the installation of a Werner Aluminum 8-10ft attic ladder, including how to expand your attic opening if needed. This ladder has a 375-pound capacity and is a fantastic addition to any home. If your attic opening isn’t large enough, don’t worry—we’ll show you how to safely and effectively enlarge it.
Materials and Tools Required:
Before starting, ensure you have the following:
- Werner Aluminum Attic Ladder
- Basic tools (screwdriver, drill, saw, etc.)
- Safety equipment (goggles, gloves)
- Temporary support beam
- Rope for lifting the ladder
- Shims for leveling the ladder
Preparing the Attic Opening:
- Assessing the Existing Opening: Begin by evaluating the size of your current attic opening. In our case, the opening was too small, so we needed to cut it larger to fit the ladder.
- Removing the Old Materials: Start by removing any sheetrock, plywood, and nails around the opening. Use a drill to remove screws and a saw to cut away any obstructing materials. It’s essential to clear the area down to the bare framework to prepare for the new opening.
- Expanding the Opening: Measure the required dimensions for your new attic ladder. Using a sheetrock cutting tool, carefully cut along your measured lines to create a larger, clean opening.
Installing the Attic Ladder:
- Attaching the Pull String: Before installing the ladder, attach the pull string to the designated spot on the attic ladder. This allows for easier handling and operation once the ladder is in place.
- Temporary Support Installation: Install a temporary support beam along one edge of the opening. This beam will hold the ladder in place as you secure it.
- Lifting the Ladder into Place: With the help of a rope, carefully lift the ladder into the attic opening. Ensure it fits snugly, and use a bit of force if necessary to position it correctly.
- Securing the Ladder: Begin by screwing the ladder into the header and sides of the opening. Ensure that the ladder is level and that all screws are tightened securely.
- Final Adjustments: Once the ladder is secured, remove the temporary support and add shims where needed to ensure the ladder frame is straight and flush with the ceiling.
- Attaching the Ladder Legs: Extend the ladder fully and attach the legs. Mark the appropriate spots, drill holes, and secure the legs with bolts.
Testing and Cleanup:
After securing the ladder, test it by pulling it down and climbing up and down. Ensure it operates smoothly and that it holds securely. Finally, clean up the workspace, removing any debris and sweeping the area.
Conclusion:
Installing an attic ladder, particularly when enlarging the opening, can be a challenging project. However, with careful planning and following the steps outlined above, you can achieve a professional result. This installation took about three hours and resulted in a perfectly fitted ladder that pleased the homeowner.