Installation is the name of the game and each generation they play the same. Well certainly two generations have played the Do It Yourself game since 1975 when Attic Ladders first introduced the innovative foldaway Attic ladder to Australia.

As well as supplying a wide range of timber and cast-alloy foldaway ladders, the company proudly boasts a team of expert tradesmen who can install the ladders for customers all over the country.

However, there has been a steady increase in the percentage of Attic ladder purchasers who had confidence in their handyperson skills to DIY in installing their ladders.

Of course, the great majority of Attic Ladders customers prefer to have the company provide a quality craftsman to install the ladders. Cost depends on the style of ladder and the work required to create a satisfactory opening in the ceiling.

But the company has put together a comprehensive DIY installation guide for clients who reckon they have the necessary ‘nous’ and skills to do the job themselves. The company provides step-by-step instructions for the DIY installation of each range of foldaway ladder.

Chris Wilson,  company’s operations manager says, the basic requirements for anyone wanting to install their own attic ladder are, besides the necessary ability of course, are a saw to create the opening in the ceiling, a spirit level and set square to make sure the ladder box is installed perfectly level in the opening and a drill.

Wilson said there were a couple of basic steps every DIY person should heed when installing a ladder.

1) Select the most convenient location for your ladder.
Installation, when possible, should be at the highest point in the roof cavity to provide the best access when climbing into the cavity.

2) Inspect the area above the ceiling.
This is to make sure there are no obstructions such as electrical wiring, pipes, hot water service and major beams, ensure the beams and joists run square with walls below and that the joists can be cut correctly.

3) Do not cut trusses. 
The Attic ladders can be installed working within the trusses.

4) Check that there is enough space beneath the proposed ceiling opening for the ladder to unfold to the floor.
Depending on where the opening is cut, you have to remember that the ladder can fold out correctly and is not hampered by objects such as walls or doors.