Would you want to create access to your attic for storage purposes? Well, it is time you think about buying a loft ladder to enable you to store the items that you rarely use in your house loft. With an attic ladder, you will access your loft easily, safely, and fast. However, before you make a purchase, you need to think about a few factors. These aspects determine what you need. Remember, you need to cater to your specific needs.
Think about usability features
You do not have to be overwhelmed by the various styles and styles that loft ladders are made. These many designs are simply meant to improve safety, convenience, and most importantly, the ladders usability. Though it depends on your personal preferences, you would most likely want that ladder that meets your project needs. So, it is wise to think about whether you will need a loft ladder with handrails, or one without. You may think about folding loft ladder or telescopic ones.
Material
Most of the loft ladders are made of wood, steel, or aluminum. However, most homeowners prefer those made of aluminum simply because they are strong and are generally light. Also, you will be amazed by aluminum’s ability to resist rust. But the wooden ones may last long or not. This entirely depends on their exposure to the effects of temperatures or even moisture. If taken care of, however, they can last as well as the entire house.
Insulation
You do not want to introduce a channel for heat loss in your home. See, loft ladders can be a potential source of loss of energy. So, do not just buy any loft ladders that you find displayed perfectly. You need to be keen on buying a ladder with tight-fitted doors. It is recommended that you go for the ones that are insulated. Alternatively, you can add some weather stripping, especially around the opening of the loft door to prevent leakage of air.
Size
All loft ladders come in various lengths. So, you should take measurements right from the ceiling of your house to the floor. This will help you in selecting the correct attic ladder. If you fail to measure, you may end up buying attic ladders that do not even reach the floor, and that would be a miscalculated endeavor.
When it comes to weight, you need to figure out what you will be stored in your attic. However, you need to make sure the ladder you buy can withstand more weight than the items you intend to store in your attic. Also, remember some people are heavier than others. Therefore you need to consider both weights, the load plus that of the heaviest person who will use the ladder.
Bottom line
It is always advisable to do some homework before you make any purchase for your home project. Buying a loft ladder is a task that requires a bit of that. So, think about the usability features of the attic ladders, the material that you feel is the best for your project, the size of the ladder, and if you require an insulated one or not.