Sizing a Loft Ladder and Hatch<\/h2>\n
![\"sizing](\"https:\/\/cleanhousefast.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Depositphotos_120567846_s-2019-1.jpg\")
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The first step is to make sure you buy the right size of ladder.<\/p>\n
Check the floor to ceiling (or floor to loft floor) height range specified for a particular ladder and make sure your floor to ceiling height is within this range.<\/p>\n
Most loft ladders are designed for ceilings up to 2.6-3.2m high with a minimum height requirement of 2-2.3m.<\/p>\n
Next, check the minimum hatch opening size for the ladder. This will tell you how large the hatch needs to be.<\/p>\n
Fitting a Loft Hatch<\/h2>\n
If you are making a new hatch, rather than enlarging an existing one, the first step is to select the right location.<\/p>\n
Make sure it\u2019s not too close to the external wall and check that there\u2019s enough headroom when you get into the loft.<\/p>\n
Make an opening using a saw. If you are lucky, you won\u2019t need to cut through any trusses or joists. If you have to (necessary if the ladder requires a large opening), make sure you don\u2019t cut any major support joists.<\/p>\n
Just to be safe, consult a pro to make sure you do not weaken the roof.<\/p>\n
Once you have made the opening, fit the frame. A hatch frame consists of planks of wood around the hatch opening. They ensure the hatch can hold the weight of the ladder and the user.<\/p>\n
Some loft ladders come with a frame that you just attach with screws to the loft opening. If the ladder doesn\u2019t come with a frame, you\u2019ll need to make your own or ask a pro to do it.<\/p>\n
The next step is to install the hatch door, also called a trap door.<\/p>\n
Again, some loft ladders also come with a hatch door. If yours doesn\u2019t, we don\u2019t recommend<\/strong> going the DIY route and making your own hatch door.<\/p>\n Instead, buy a readymade hatch door. You can easily find one on Amazon or at a local hardware.<\/p>\n
![\"installing](\"https:\/\/cleanhousefast.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/best-loft-ladder-300x300.jpg\")
How you attach the ladder to the loft depends on the type of ladder. But everything you need to install the ladder should be included in the package.<\/p>\n