How to Evaluate Attic Stairs

Attic stairs provide a quick and easy way of accessing the uppermost level of your house. These stairs typically fold into the ceiling, and pulling a string lowers the stairs to the floor. If you rarely use your attic stairs or if you live in an older home, inspect your attic stairs with each use. Older or damaged stairs might pose a safety risk, as they can collapse.

Flashlight

Instructions

- 1
  Check the wood surrounding the attic entry door for signs of rotting or warping. Examine the hinges and springs that attach the attic stairs to the ceiling. Check for looseness, rusting and missing pieces. Climbing an attic stair with faulty springs, hinges and wood can detach from the attic opening.
- 2
  Check the hardware. Pull the attic stairs to the floor, examine each nut and bolt with flashlight. Check for missing bolts or broken bolts. Missing or corrupted bolts can cause attic stairs to collapse.
- 3
  Assess the hand railing. Wiggle the railing ensuring it's sturdy. Check the railing for signs of wood rot. Make sure that each railing bolt is. Look for rough areas on the rail that might cause splinters.
- 4
  Examine the stairs. Old attic stairs might not support your weight. Check each step on the attic stairs ensuring that they're securely attached to the ladder. Look for signs of water damage or rotting, which might weaken the wood.

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