Before purchasing an attic ladder you should know the critical dimension to ensure you select the best product that meets your needs. Using the 4 easy measurements below you will help save time and money.

4 Step How To Choose Your Attic Ladder Process
1. Opening Size
Measure the rough opening in your ceiling, both the width and length. Standard openings are 22.5” x 54”, but some homes have wider openings. Conversely, some homes have smaller openings (or hatches). It’s important to understand the opening size you have or will create to ensure you select the correct attic ladder product for your home.
2. Floor To Ceiling Height
Measure and verify the ceiling height, which is the distance from the finished floor to the finished ceiling. Most attic ladders cover a range of ceiling heights, so it’s important to know the exact measurement you’re working with. For smaller attic ladder openings with a minimum measurement of 18” x 24” you will need to measure from the finished floor to the attic floor.
3. Swing Clearance
Measure and verify the amount of space available to swing out the stair sections of your ladder (this extends beyond your attic opening). For smaller attic openings with a minimum measurement of 18” x 24” you will need to measure the swing clearance inside the attic space. The compact attic ladder requires a minimum height of 28” and minimum depth of 44” inside the attic, above and behind the opening.
4. Landing Space
Having the correct amount of landing space is key to being able to properly extend the stairs for safe climbing. Measure the space available where the ladder will land, from the back of the opening towards the front.