How to Adjust the Springs on Attic Stairs

Over time, the attic stair springs begin to wear, requiring some adjustment to get the door to seal evenly into the ceiling. New attic stairs are sometimes too difficult to open because there is too much spring tension. Adjusting the springs on attic stairs is similar to adjusting extension springs on a garage door. The stairs must be in the up position so there is no tension on the spring while you make adjustments. It is necessary to be in the attic with the attic stairs in the closed position when making the adjustments. This requires a helper to open and close the stairs while you are working.

Flashlight
Wrench
Helper

Instructions

- 1
  Open the attic stairs and climb up so you can see the springs. Find the hook or eye bolt securing one end of the attic spring to the metal stair arm on each side of the stairs.
- 2
  Turn on the light in the attic or take a flashlight with you. Climb into the attic and sit or stand to one side of the attic stair opening. Ask a helper to close the attic stairs. This will bring the springs to a relaxed position for adjustment.
- 3
  Rotate the nut securing the hook or eye bolt counterclockwise with a wrench to decrease the spring tension. If it is necessary to increase the tension, turn the nut clockwise. Do not turn the nut clockwise more than three full turns.
- 4
  Repeat for the spring on the opposite side, turning the nut the same number of turns as the previous nut. Stand to the side of the attic stair opening, and ask your helper to open the stairs.
- 5
  Climb down and test the opening and closing of the attic stairs. If the stairs still do not operate correctly, consider purchasing and installing a new set of springs.

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