Looking to get a new loft ladder, but not sure where to start? It's easy to get stuck when trying to figure out the small details. What do you need to measure? What material is best? Can you fit a loft ladder yourself?
Don't stress - you're not alone in this, but we can help. Here's some simple, easy to follow advice on how to choose a loft ladder. Whether you want to organise your storage space, or you want to do a full-on loft conversion - we'll use our years of ladder expertise to advise you!
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Why Choose A Loft Staircase?
A loft is basically just a smaller attic - so you can use a loft ladder for either. However, if you are doing a loft conversion and changing either of these into a living space, then you might not actually want a loft ladder at all! A loft staircase could be a better option for you.
(If you're using your loft as a storage area instead, keep scrolling to see other options.)
What are the benefits of a loft staircase over a ladder? Ease of access is a big one, particularly if you have any difficulties with ladders. Our loft staircases are made of sturdy, aesthetically-pleasing wood. If you're struggling to choose a size, you'll need to measure the area and check our product specifications to see if you have room. If you're confused about reliability, go with one of our reputable brands like Dolle!
There are a couple of hoops that you need to jump through if you do want to declare your loft conversion as an inhabitable, safe and functional extra room. The loft conversion needs to have:
- A floor that's capable of holding sufficient weight
- Easily accessible fire escape
- Safe, solid stairs to reach the new room
- Reasonable insulation between the loft and the rooms below
As for installation, most of our loft staircases come as one unit, and/or can be installed without any special tools. You can check in the product description's of indivisual staircases to see if this is the case. You can hire a joiner for help if you think you might need it.
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Why Choose a Sliding Loft Ladder?
In most cases, this is the loft ladder you should choose. If you just want to use your loft as a storage space, and you have plenty of room, then go with a sliding loft ladder. Modern UK homes tend to be designed with a loft opening that's wide enough to support ladders of this kind, but check your loft hatch dimensions before making a purchase. (If you don't have room in the loft to fit one of these ladders, then you need a concertina ladder - keep scrolling!)
This style of sliding ladder comes in aluminium (like the Werner 3 Section Hideaway Loft Ladder shown above) and wooden variations. The wooden styles are a little quieter and more sturdy - making them ideal for older homeowners or frequent loft users. Despite being noisier, aluminium sliding loft ladders are lightweight which makes them perfect for light usage scenarios. When choosing a loft ladder, always consider what you will be carrying up the ladder, and what kind of weight you expect it to support.
As for installation, you need to consider how accessible your hatch is. Do you have a way to get up to the hatch and install the ladder? Working at height can be risky, so you may need a step-ladder for this task, or you might want to consider getting some help. Always read the product description to see which of our ladders are a good match for your DIY abilities.
Why Choose a Concertina Loft Ladder?
If you're trying to choose a loft ladder but you're really strapped for space, you might find that a concertina loft ladder is your best option. Concertina ladders take up virtually no space in your loft or hallway, making them ideal for smaller attics and properties.
We know that these concertina ladders can be a bit flimsy, that's why we only offer concertina ladders from brands that we know and trust. Columbus and Dolle both offer a great selection of concertina ladders that will help you make the most of your loft space!
How To Choose a Loft Ladder: Things to Consider
- What is the maximum load that the loft ladder will need to support? If you plan to carry heavy items into your attic, you will need to choose a loft ladder that can support your weight, plus the additional weight.
- Do you need a handrail? If you think you (or other loft ladder users in your household) will struggle to get up and down the loft ladder without a handrail, then consider buying a ladder with a handrail built-in. The Youngman Deluxe 2 Section Loft Ladder comes with two handrails as standard!
- Are you installing the loft ladder yourself? If so, you will also need a step ladder that's tall enough to reach the loft hatch without requiring you to extend above the safe working height.
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If you're still not sure how to choose a loft ladder: Get in touch! We can recommend a ladder that will work for your loft dimensions and needs!
