DIY Network

I need instructions for installing an attic ladder. I will be removing sections from four ceiling joists and want to know if there are any special techniques or precautions I need to follow. I cannot install between ceiling joists because they are on 16" centers. The location of the ladder, a hallway, also will not allow installation between joists. Please send instructions or a website where I can find instructions to complete this project

Note: This is my first post here but it will not be my last. My wife and I just bought a house and we have several improvement projects planned.

Whichever attic ladder you choose will come with instructions how to reinforce ceiling joists if you need to cut one or more. Werner is probably the most well known for attic ladders, I installed one last spring. I didn't cut any ceiling joists, but I remember that the instructions had info regarding that. Check out Werner's website as all their installation manuals are online.

Werner Ladder website

Matt is right - the instructions are very clear in the package with the Werner ladder. That was one of the easiest do it yourself projects I've done. The instructions were clear and the parts are clever and well made for easy installation.
Monica

When I did mine, I used joist hangers when reframeing my opening. This seemed to make the reframing go much smoother. I got the aluminum type, although they make wooded ones as well. As stated the instructions that came with the ladder were pretty clear. Follow them and you should have no difficulties.

Hi doctorwho52,

Using the link to the Werner site, I tried to locate the instruction sheet as suggested. Werner makes many styles of ladders and find the instructions took some time. Below are 2 links to the instructions.

This link lists all ladders they sell so look through it carefully for the attic ladder and the instruction link.

http://www.wernerladder.com/resource/resource_product.php

This link is the link to the pdf file for the attic ladder instructions. Unfortunately when I downloaded it I got a fault error possibly because my pdf reader is out of date. It should work for you if you have a newer version. This is the English version as there are other languages available as well.

http://www.wernerladder.com/catalog/files/rc178.pdf

Hopefully this is of some help.

Good Luck!
http://www.wernerladder.com/catalog/files/rc178.pdf