Using a tape measure make measurements of the total height of the space you want to make stairs from the bottom to the top.
How to measure for attic pull down stairs.
So with a 24 on center and framing lumber being 1 1 2 thick the dimension between the inside edges of the two joists is 22 1 2 24 3 4 3 4.
You should also measure the ceiling height.
Note the measurement which is the width of the attic ladder.
How do measure pull down attic stairs.
Measure and verify the amount of space available to swing out the stair sections of your ladder this extends beyond your attic opening.
Place your ladder securely below the ceiling hatch and lock it in place.
We ll show you how to cut out frame the opening then install a fo.
The width and length of the rough opening and the ceiling height.
Place a tape measure at the left side of the attic opening on the inside edge of any trim molding but the outside of the actual attic ladder frame.
This is called the rise of your measurements and will determine how high your stairs will go.
Measure the height or rise of the space you want to make stairs.
Once you re in the attic locate the screw.
Have your helper below note the measurement.
You ll need at least three critical measurements.
Measure the rough opening s width and length in three different spots at the top and bottom of the framing.
Determine the area where you want to place your stairs.
Standard size attic ladder kits are designed to fit between floor joists or trusses that have a 24 inch spacing on center.
When you find it remove the insulation from the area and determine.
Stretch the tape measure over to the right side of the attic ladder door stopping at the inside edge of the trim molding on that side.
Hold the tape.
For smaller attic openings with a minimum measurement of 18 x 24 you will need to measure the swing clearance inside the attic space.
Next using an electric drill pop a screw up through the drywall in the ceiling.
How to measure for attic stairs 1.
Extend the tape measure so that it reaches from the ceiling to the floor.
That s dimensions between the framing of your attic joists which is typically 24 on center.
Leave room for extending the measuring tape.
The length is simply the dimension between the two pieces of lumber that form the end of the opening.