Things to keep in mind when purchasing a Pull-down Attic Stair in Stuart

Starting the search

Like the basement or the garage, attics turn to be the ideal place to store things that are not used frequently like Christmas decorations, for instance as most of the Stuart’s residents know.

But, when using this space, you must have a functional attic stair (also known as ladder) and, of course, it can vary depending on each client's needs and budget.

In some cases, people that already have an attic stairs but need to replace it, mainly because they need it to be safer. Whatever the case is, potential buyers must think about the following factors.

Location

Since attic stairs must be installed in the ceiling, it is very important to choose the size and location that best fit, taking into account that, besides being easy to access, it must be in line with the architecture of the house, which is why it’s so important to keep in mind the style and the structure of the Stuart area houses.

Another thing to take into consideration is that you have to make sure your pull-down stairs land in a safe space so it would be easy to handle and manage when accessing the attic.

Framing

In most of the cases, the ceiling, which is the attic’s floor, is made of elements that can not be altered because of the risk of causing structural damage so, when installing a stairway, the best way to go is in the gap between two trusses.

In case you are a Stuart resident, Holt’s Reliable Garage Door is the answer you’re looking for. Just give us a call and we’ll be more than happy to help you and advise you with your ceiling issues and the installation of your pull-down attic stairs

Space and Orientation

Average attics take up 24 - inches of space in the center which leaves a bit more than 22 inches and a half of open space between each joist pair so the access must be in this space...and also the ladder. It would be great if it fits...but if it doesn't you'll need additional framing.

It can also happen that the joists are running in the wrong direction which would make the installation more difficult. If you have a standard framing, however, it can be solved by cutting out sections of the joists and framing the rough opening with doubled-up headers and joists, but, if you have trusses, you'll need professional help and, if an alteration is needed, the process will be quite expensive.

Are you having this problem and by any chance you live in Stuart or surrounders? Call Holt’s Reliable Garage Door Open and we’ll give you a quote and help you with any advice you need

Length and weight

There are different lengths for attic ladders which is so important to properly measure the space between the ceiling and the floor where you are going to install the ladder and buy a model with the right size. It is also recommended to buy a ladder that can take the weight of the heaviest person that will use it, carrying the heaviest load up and down.

Although a 250 - pound capacity pull-down stairs seems to be enough, it is better to buy a 300 - pounds capacity even requiring extra framing.

Basic Requirements

The pull-down stairs for a full - size attic need an opening space of at least 22 inches and a half x 54 inches in the ceiling so, the first thing you have to do is to make sure you have this space. You also have to make sure you have an appropriate landing space inside the attic that ensures the safe mounting and dismounting of the ladder. It is also important to check the headroom to prevent hitting your head when using the ladder.

You also have to make sure there is enough space to accommodate the pull-down stairs when it's fully extended, keeping in mind that there are different lengths depending on the model and type. It is very important to check this information before purchasing and installing it.

In case you have a tight space, you'll need the ladders designed for reduced spaces. There are models that only need an 18x24 inch opening and need less floor space

Material

Pull-down attic stairs may be made of different materials like metal or wood. Among the metals, aluminum is the best choice since it is light but also strong and rust - resistant, so it won't be affected by factors like humidity and temperature...which are exactly the factors that can severely affect a wood ladder.

Do you have any preferences regarding the material of your pull-down stairs? Holt’s Reliable Garage Door certainly has what you are looking for. You can check on our website or simply come over to our stores and see by yourself all the different pull-down stairs we can offer to our clients in Stuart

Safety features

Some pull-down attic stairs have safety features such as slip - resistant steps, handrails, latches and locks. Other ladders have locking mechanisms on the hinges to ensure the ladder stays in place. These features are especially important when having children around but also if you have people with vision limitations or seniors.

We in Holt’s Reliable Garage Door truly value your safety and for this reason, if you choose us to install your pull-down stairs, we’ll make sure your pull-down attic stair will be, not only functional, but also totally safe