How do I Install a Werner A2510 Attic Ladder?

Find the ceiling studs using a stud sensor and place strips of blue painters tape over the drywall to mark their position. Mark the location between two studs where you want the ladder, as close to the center of the room as possible. Avoid placing the opening near any pipes or ducting.

Lay the attic ladder and all pieces onto the floor and check everything for damage or flaws. Establish the location for the back edge of the ladder housing on the ceiling studs. Draw a straight line between two studs marked with the blue tape. Measure from the new line along one of the studs the length of the ladder frame and create another line to make a rectangle on the ceiling.

Use a drywall saw to cut one of the short sides, starting at the center and working toward a stud. With one side cut, follow the edge of one of the studs and cut along the stud until you reach the second line. Finish cutting the hole in the ceiling until it is a complete rectangle

Raise the ladder frame into place between the studs and have an assistant help hold it in place while you extend the ladder. Hammer two 3-inch long spiral framing nails through the ladder frame and into the stud at all four corners. Check the frame for level as you insert the nails.

Cut two 2-by-4 boards with a circular saw so that they fit perfectly between the studs. From the attic, butt the new board against the short edge of the frame, and place two spiral nails through the studs and into the boards.

Close the ladder and verify that it closes smoothly, and then reopen the door by pulling down on the access string. Place nails through the attic frame into the new stud sides approximately every 2 inches. Also, place nails along the sides of the frame 2 inches apart until it is mounted securely to the original studs.

Lower the ladder, and adjust the bottom legs by releasing the locking clamps on the ends. Move the adjustable section of ladder up or down to adjust it so the legs just touch the floor.

Miter cut casing or trim molding to hide the junction of the ladder frame to the studs and the rough cut opening. Use 1 1/2-inch finishing nails to attach the decorative wood.