Attic Access Ladder Installation

Use tape to mark the spot on the floor where you would like the ladder to rest. Use your tape measure to record the distance between the floor marker and the back end of the planned ceiling opening according to the size of the ladder you are installing. For example, if your ladder has a extended run of 2.5 feet, measure 2.5 feet from the tape mark and place another tape marker on the floor to outline it.

Hang a plumb bob from the ceiling directly over your back end marker. Mark the spot with your pencil, then use a straightedge to draw the outline of your ceiling opening based on the specifications of your attic ladder manufacturer. Use your flat-head screwdriver to make a hole at each corner of the pencil outline. Slip a wooden stick into each hole and move it as far as you can in all directions. The idea is to check for obstructions of any kind that may cause you to have to move your mounting location.

Slide the tip of a drywall saw into one of the holes you have made and cut all around your pencil outline. Remove the panel and measure the distance between the two joists on either side of the opening. Determine the size of the lumber used for your ceiling joists. Use your circular saw to cut two pieces of the same type of lumber to fit the gap between the joists as measured. Install one piece, or header, at the back end of the opening, and the other at the front end.

Place the front and rear headers in position, and use a level to check that both headers are flush, both up and down and front and back. Working from the attic side, drive nails through the joists and into each end of the headers.

Cut two pieces of 1-by-4 lumber a few inches wider than the opening; position them so that an inch or two of the board extends into the opening. Use your screw gun and drywall screws to fasten one piece to the underside of the rear header, and the other to the underside of the front header. The idea is to create a ledge at the front and rear of the opening for the ladder to rest on during the installation process.

Slide the attic ladder through the opening, and rest it on the 1-by-4s. Open the ladder, and fit it evenly to the joists by placing wood shims between the outer edge of the ladder frame and the inner edge of the opening. Use your level to check that the ladder frame is plumb all the way around, then use the hammer and nails to fasten the ladder frame in position. Drive one nail every 6 inches or so around the entire perimeter of the frame. Once it's securely attached, you can remove the 1-by-4s.

Use a circular saw to cut away any excess ladder length at the bottom end. Cut at the appropriate angle to ensure a flat landing for your attic stairs.