Measuring up for a new loft ladder is a piece of cake. But just in case you have any worries or queries, we’ve put together a quick list of things you need to consider when determining whether your chosen ladder will fit.


1. Floor to floor height and floor to ceiling height

This is the distance measured between the floor, where your loft ladder will rest, and the floor of the room above - typically your loft/attic. This kind of measurement is specific to a ‘sliding’ loft ladder as it is required that this ladder is fixed to the floor above - typically the topside of your attic hatch.

If you are measuring for a folding loft ladder then you need to note the distance between where the loft ladder will rest and the ceiling of that same room (vertical measurement). Concertina loft ladders (without hatch) are mounted just above the ceiling level, so you will need to measure the distance from the floor up to this mounting point.

When you’re looking at the specifications of your loft ladder, the minimum and maximum distances that the ladders can be made to fit are usually given.


2. Loft opening dimensions

This is the maximum size of the ‘hole’ needed in your loft floor to accommodate your loft ladder. Be sure to check this out, even if you already have an existing loft opening, as a bigger one may be required.

Again, when you’re looking at the specifications of your loft ladder, the minimum size for your loft opening will be given. Just make sure to keep in mind the position of joists and other obstructions, such as cabling, that will put a limit on how big the opening can be made.

Some loft ladders come with a hatch and frame attached. This means that you’ll need to create an opening big enough for them to fit into. When determining the maximum loft opening size possible, you’ll know whether you can install a loft ladder with an attachment.


3. Swing clearance and landing space

This is the ‘arc’ through which all loft ladders move as they are retracted into the loft. This is measured from the loft hinge to the nearest obstacle - typically the loft wall. It’s important to determine whether you have enough swing clearance, otherwise your loft ladder will not fold properly when you put it away.

The same measurement will also determine whether you will have enough landing space for when your loft ladder is in use. Only in this case you’ll be measuring from the loft hinge to the resting place on the floor, where the ladder feet will sit when fully extended.