Diy Install Attic Stairs

Make sure you have someone helping from the garage level so you don t get stuck in the attic.

Diy install attic stairs.

Check that the assembly is level and shim between the stair frame and joists. Do not extend the legs to the floor yet. Unfold the lowest section of the ladder and cut the straight legs just enough for the feet to sit correctly on the floor. A straight flight of stairs is a diy project that many homeowners can perform with the right tools and a little guidance.

While the cost of doing this work yourself reduces the cost of the project from about 650 to 220 a professional licensed contractor should complete the job from needing a second set of hands to making structural changes and modifying existing piping wiring and air ducts this work is full of potential pitfalls and requires specialized. If the ladder legs are too long fold the ladder at the lowest joint and measure from the hinge to the floor image 1. While it might seem like a big job an attic ladder installation is something you can handle if you just take it step by step. In this video this old house general contractor tom silva explains how to install attic stairs.

Pull the stairs down until the hinges are extended image 1. This guide will explain how to build a staircase in your home. Step 1 cut out attic access opening photo by karim shamsi basha. Installing an attic ladder or fold down stairway is a doable diy project that could take just a few hours.

It also has a full length handrail for added safety. Place attic assembly on supports. Attic stairs installation can make accessing previously unused storage space a breeze. Cut around ceiling trim with a utility knife.

Snap chalk lines onto the ceiling to represent the rough opening of the attic staircase. Some ladder kits provide these to make installation a little bit easier and all inclusive for diy homeowners. Ready made options are available from industry manufacturers but building stairs from scratch is a less expensive option that leaves room for customizations. Mark rough opening of new fold down staircase on the ceiling joists in the attic.

Make sure there s enough headroom above the attic floor so the staircase can close properly. Hiring an attic ladder installation service.