Diy Install Attic Stairs

While the cost of doing this work yourself reduces the cost of the project from about 650 to 220 a professional licensed contractor should complete the job from needing a second set of hands to making structural changes and modifying existing piping wiring and air ducts this work is full of potential pitfalls and requires specialized.

Diy install attic stairs. In this video this old house general contractor tom silva explains how to install attic stairs. Make sure you have someone helping from the garage level so you don t get stuck in the attic. Step 1 cut out attic access opening photo by karim shamsi basha. Do not extend the legs to the floor yet.

Ready made options are available from industry manufacturers but building stairs from scratch is a less expensive option that leaves room for customizations. Pull the stairs down until the hinges are extended image 1. Check that the assembly is level and shim between the stair frame and joists. Use a reciprocating saw to cut joists and nails holding any joists that must be removed.

This guide will explain how to build a staircase in your home. Hiring an attic ladder installation service. Some ladder kits provide these to make installation a little bit easier and all inclusive for diy homeowners. A straight flight of stairs is a diy project that many homeowners can perform with the right tools and a little guidance.

Attic stairs installation can make accessing previously unused storage space a breeze. It also has a full length handrail for added safety. Snap chalk lines onto the ceiling to represent the rough opening of the attic staircase. Many ladders as well as staircases come as pre assembled sets that you can get for delivery to your residence or grab at a local structure supply shop.

Mark rough opening of new fold down staircase on the ceiling joists in the attic. Place attic assembly on supports. If the ladder legs are too long fold the ladder at the lowest joint and measure from the hinge to the floor image 1. Cut around ceiling trim with a utility knife.

While it might seem like a big job an attic ladder installation is something you can handle if you just take it step by step. Use a hacksaw if the ladder is metal and a wood saw if the ladder is wood images 2 and 3.