How to Measure an Attic Ladder Rough Opening

Intermediate

2 hours

4 Steps

3 Items

About This Project

This outline details how to accurately measure the rough opening required for installing an attic ladder. It covers identifying the existing opening, taking precise measurements, and accounting for necessary clearances.

Tools & Materials

LUXPRO Utility 537 Lumens LED Handheld Flashlight and Work Light LP485

Measuring Tape

Louisville Ladder 7.8 ft. - 10.3 ft. Ceiling Height Aluminum Attic Ladder(22.5 in. x 54 in. Rough Opening) 375 lbs. Type IAA Load Capacity AH2240MS

LUXPRO Utility 537 Lumens LED Handheld Flashlight and Work Light LP485

Utility combo LED handheld flashlight and work light by LUXPRO. This is a multi-functional light that features an advanced variable brightness button. Simply select a mode then press and hold the on/off

Measuring Tape

For accurate measurements of plywood and components, ensuring proper assembly.

Louisville Ladder 7.8 ft. - 10.3 ft. Ceiling Height Aluminum Attic Ladder(22.5 in. x 54 in. Rough Opening) 375 lbs. Type IAA Load Capacity AH2240MS

Louisville AH2240MS aluminum framed attic ladder provides a lighterweight, more square aluminum frame with pre-drilled holes for easier installation than traditional wood framed attic ladders. Designed

Steps

Locate Existing Attic Opening

5 minutes

Visually inspect the ceiling in the attic access area to pinpoint the exact location of the existing framed opening. This opening is where the attic ladder will be installed.

Watch: Inspect and Plan Attic Opening Modifications

Measure Opening Width

5 minutes

Using a measuring tape, measure the distance between the interior edges of the framing on both sides of the existing attic opening. This measurement represents the rough opening width.

Watch: Measure the Attic Opening and Ceiling Height

Measure Opening Length

5 minutes

Using a measuring tape, measure the distance between the interior edges of the framing at the top and bottom of the existing attic opening. This measurement represents the rough opening length.

Watch: Measure the Attic Opening and Ceiling Height

Determine Required Ladder Size

10 minutes

Consult the specifications for the attic ladder you plan to install. Compare the measured width and length of your rough opening to the manufacturer's recommended minimum rough opening dimensions for various ladder sizes. Select the ladder size that fits within your measured opening while meeting the manufacturer's requirements.

Watch: Verify Rough Opening Dimensions