It’s easy to think about how great it will be having your loft open up for use, but if you’re not sure what the best way of getting in there is, things can quickly get complicated. The loft ladder is one of the main ways to access your loft space and it requires some careful consideration before placing an order.
How long does it take to fit a ladder?
The installation of a hatch, depending on the situation, might take more than an hour. Anyone who can assist with installing a ladder like this is encouraged to contact us.
Don’t be in a rush and seek professional assistance if you’re unsure. It also helps to save time by minimizing the amount of time spent on the task since any issues that arise are resolved quickly.
How to Install Your Loft Ladder Properly.
Make sure you get the right ladder for your space
One size doesn’t fit all, and neither does one model of loft ladder. There are loads of different styles on offer by various companies, so it’s worth doing some research into what might be best suited to your needs.
If you’re not sure what to get, don’t be afraid to ask either us or your merchant partner for advice.
For our recommendations on the Best Loft Ladder in the UK check out our post.
Don’t rush the process
It might seem like making a choice is easy and finding out how to install it will be even simpler, but we’d recommend taking the time to think carefully about this decision.
You need to be confident that the ladder you get is going to provide a safe means of access and not prove too difficult for you to handle all by yourself. If something feels like it’s taking longer than expected, don’t rush it.
Check your loft hatch before ordering
Not only should the model of loft ladder fit through your loft hatch (if you have one), but it should be snug enough with the opening that you can close up above your head when it’s in place.
This may require a little bit of extra force, but it is definitely worth doing this check before making a purchase.
Consider how you’re going to brace the ladder
Although most companies do offer some form of bracing for their ladders, many of them are not sufficient enough to use as the main support during installation.
If you’re planning on using your loft ladder by yourself, just remember that you’ll need to provide a means of bracing and supporting it in place in order to do this safely.
Make sure that there is nothing blocking access to the loft hatch
The last thing you want is to set about installing your ladder and then not be able to access the loft hatch as easily as hoped.
Make sure that there isn’t anything lying around that might get in the way of getting up or down into the loft space, for example.
We recommend using some rope / string to help support the ladder
There are some loft ladders out there that can be installed without any extra support connections, but most kinds need something to stop them from moving or tipping too easily.
Our merchant partner roofwindows4you.co.uk recommends using a rope or string to make sure this doesn’t happen as it is being attached and braced into position.
Use safety equipment when installing a loft ladder
In the same way that it’s important to use a means of bracing your loft ladder, you’ll also need to make sure that you’re wearing appropriate clothing and protection during this process.
Don’t skimp on any of the safety gear, even if you think it may not be necessary.
You need to make sure that the loft ladder is secure
The last thing you want is for your loft ladder to fall out of place, possibly injuring you or someone else in the process. While it may be tempting to take shortcuts when installing a loft ladder (especially if there’s no one else around), don’t do this even if it is for something as simple as climbing to your attic.
Once the ladder is in place, double check it
Even if you’ve installed your loft ladder properly, it may accidentally become detached or fall out of position. To avoid this, make sure that you check the ladder every now and then during its lifetime to see whether anything has happened.
Also, it’s a good idea to ask your merchant partner whether they offer any maintenance services.
How much does it cost to install a ladder in a loft?
Call the specialists if you don’t have the talents – even though it is less expensive. Before you start a project, assess its complexity and your capacity to complete it. When a ladder isn’t stable, accidents might happen and result in injury or death.
If it’s already too late to do any home repairs, hiring a professional is the most practical option. It will save you a lot of time. If a job needs a new hatch, it’s worth considering how difficult it will be. If you don’t have to replace only old ladders with fresh ones, you can accomplish that with some guidance.
You can even build your own, but it requires skills.
Be careful with these additional costs
- The cost of the ladder itself varies depending on its brand and features, but ranges between £100 – £200.
- It’s best to hire professionals for job assessment. They determine if you need additional ladders or braces or not.
- A loft hatch costs around £100 – £200. To install old one to new frame you have to take out the frame, it takes 1 hour. The process of installing a new frame is about 4 hours long.
- Professionals charge for their labour between £70 – £80 per hour depending on location.
- Sometimes they charge their travel time too.
- They charge for the new materials if necessary, but not the new ladders.
- It costs around £25 – £35 to remove one of your old ladders and attach new ones.
- An electrician may be needed to install lighting in the attic after installation is finished. If you want more light, it will cost you more. If there are no sockets in your attic, you can install them yourself.
- It costs £400 – £500 if the floor of the attic needs to be replaced with a new one because of too much moisture or for any other reason.
Conclusion
Keep in mind that installation of loft ladders isn’t only about the money. There are also other costs you may not know about until your ladder is already installed, drawn and painted to make it look nice.