Best Attic Ladder – Best Buyer’s Guide

An attic ladder can help you turn your attic into a storage or livable space.

And you have the option of choosing from an array of attic ladders based on features like weight capacity, design, material, budget just to name a few.

So when it comes to finding an attic ladder for your home, there are factors you need to consider.

And we have discussed these factors in this article. We have also discussed 5 of the best attic ladders based on user feedback and ratings.

Starting off is our top pick.

Attic Ladders Comparison Chart

5 Best Attic Ladders (as of April, 2024):

1. Louisville Ladder AA2210 Elite Attic Ladder Review

The Elite ladder is made of aluminum which is robust and durable.

And you can use this ladder if you have an attic in your home and you want to create more space either to set up a bedroom or store personal items.

The Louisville Ladder AA2210 Elite has a rough opening of 22 and a half-inch by 54 inches which allows for installation of 24-inch center ceiling joints.

And it can be used for ceiling heights from 7 foot 9 inches to 10 feet.

The ladder has a capacity of 375 pounds, so obviously if you weigh more than that you need to get a ladder with a larger capacity.

The Elite features slip resistance steps to add to your safety by preventing slips that can cause injury. And not just to you but also your kids.

It closes and opens slowly and gently. And this actually prevents the loud bang that you would hear when a ladder door slams shut quickly.

The ladder comes already assembled so that removes the hustle of putting it together. The only thing you need to do is install it once you purchase it. It’s a big ladder so you need another person to help with the installation.

But you can choose to install it yourself but it might not be easy especially if there is some framing that needs to be done or some sheetrock that needs to be cut.

Main Features

• R5 Insulated Door
• Advanced Cylinder Design
• Gas Piston System
• Slip-Resistant Cross-Tread Steps
• Ergonomic T-Handle For An Easier Opening
• Wide Access Clearance Door
• Adjustable Shoes
• 375 pound Load Capacity
• ANSI Certified

Louisville Ladder Elite Aluminum Attic Ladder AA2210 & AA2510 Series:

Louisville Attic Ladder AA2210 in Use:

2. Louisville Ladder AL228P Everest Attic Ladder Review

The Louisville Ladder AL228P Everest extension ladder has a 22.5 inches by 63-inches rough opening.

And it’s one of the few decently priced extension ladders that can accommodate ceiling heights of 10 feet to 12 feet.

This ladder system is sturdy and it can support a maximum weight of 350 pounds.

The ladder has an aluminium section and a wooden section. The aluminum part is solid, but the wooden part requires some improvement. Many of the user complaints are about the wooden section of the ladder being flimsy.

So when installing it, you have to be extra careful to avoid breaking the wooden frame.

Except that, the ladder is solid and sturdy. And it comes already assembled. All you need to do is install it.

Main Features

• R3.8 Insulated Door
• Multiple Handrails
• Adjustable Shoes
• Hook And Pole For Easy Door Opening
• EZ-Hang Strap System
• Heavy-Duty Hinges
• 350 pound Load Capacity
• ANSI Certified

3. Werner Ladder AA1510 Attic Ladder Review

The Werner Ladder AA1510 is an aluminum made attic ladder that is designed for openings that are 18 inches by 24 inches.

And it can fit ceilings heights of between 7 and 10 feet.

One great feature is that this ladder is designed to fit tight spaces like closets and hallways.

The total carrying capacity of this ladder is 250 pounds. So if you weigh about 200 pounds, get a ladder that can support 300 pounds or more.

You always need to account for the fact that you might carry items up the stairs at some point and that will increase your total weight. And also how frequently you use the ladder, will determine how long it gives you service.

It is tough and durable because it’s constructed with aluminum. But exerting too much pressure on the ladder by carrying heavy items regularly will cause it to wear out fast.

But on the whole, the ladder is solid and it’s easy to install and use.

Main Features

• Ideal for Hallways, Closets, and Other Tight Spaces
• Telescoping Design
• Non-Marring Feet
• Assist Pole Included for Opening & Closing
• Installs Into Small Openings
• Hardware for Door Included
• Door & Frame Box Not Included
• 250 pound Load Capacity
• ANSI Certified

Werner Compact Attic Ladder – Long Installation Video:

4. Louisville Ladder L224P Review

Louisville produces a variety of ladders made from different materials.

And while wooden ladders are frowned upon by some people, they are people who like wooden ladders.

And Louisville made a wooden attic ladder for people who prefer wooden ladders.

That said, the Louisville Ladder L224P wooden attic ladder is a strong and sturdy ladder with a 22.5 inches by 54 inch opening.

The ceiling height range for this ladder is 8 feet by 10 feet. And it has a maximum load capacity of 250 pounds with each step embedded with wire rods for improved strength.

The ladder is foldable, which makes it easy to carry around and store in small-spaced areas.

And the heavy-duty hinges help the ladder to fold and unfold quietly and without resistance. They also keep the ladder from wobbling as you climb.

Main Features

• Easy-Hang Strap
• Adjustable Springs
• Ergonomic T-handle
• Reinforced Grooved Steps
• Hook & Pole for Easy Door Opening
• 250 pound Load Capacity
• ANSI Certified

5. FAKRO LST 66875 Review

The Fakro LST 66875 is one of those good looking ladders anyone would want to have in their home.

It has a unique design and it’s made out of steel, which makes it durable and strong.

The LST steel scissor ladder is designed to fit 6 different rough openings.

The smallest opening it can fit is 22 inches by 31 inches and the largest is 27 inches and 31 inches. So it’s a pretty versatile ladder that you can fit in large or small spaced areas.

The ladder can accommodate ceiling heights of 7.2 feet and 9.6 inches feet. It has a unique hatch that allows the ladder to open and close slowly.

When the ladder is completely open, the hatch is held in position to prevent the ladder from closing quickly.

The steps have an embossed pattern to prevent slippage. And it has a wooden frame that is insulated with a thick rubber to prevent loss of heat.

The total weight capacity of this ladder is 350 pounds. And as a rule of thumb, you should not buy a ladder that cannot support your weight together with that of your tools.

Via: @the.signature.craftsman

You are always advised to buy a ladder that has a maximum weight load that exceeds your total weight.

Via: @atticstairpro

Main Features

• White Hatch – Plastic Catch
• White Metal Trim
• Peripheral Gasket
• Non-Slip Steps
• S-Shaped Strings
• Possibility of Adding or Detaching Steps
• Quick Installation in the Ceiling – Installation Brackets
• Additionl Accessories Available
• System of Adopting the Ladder Length to the Ceiling Height
• 350 pound Load Capacity
• 2 Year Warranty

FAKRO loft ladders – LST scissor loft ladder:

Buyer’s Guide

Attic ladders are useful when you have an attic you want to use as a storage space or a bedroom. Since they are retractable, they are not an obstruction.

They open and close easily. And they are easy to install particularly the ones that come already assembled. They come in different sizes and have different openings and accommodate varying ceiling heights.

So knowing what attic ladder to buy depends on the size of the space you intend to install the ladder, and another number of factors.

So here are some factors that you need to take into account when selecting an attic ladder.

Location and Space

Attic ladders are designed to fit the framing of your ceiling or rather the access space to your ceiling. It’s not hard to find a ladder that can fit the opening to your attic.

Via: @fakrousa

But you also have the option of enlarging the opening if you need to fit a specific ladder. Or if the opening is not big enough for the ladder that you want to install.

You should also make sure that the ladder rests in a safe space where you can maneuver with ease. That is, the space should accommodate the size and length of the ladder.

Type of Framing

Before installing a ladder, check your attic floor is framed with joists or trusses or floor joists. Knowing what framing is used can help determine if it’s possible to adjust the framing  for the ladder to fit properly.

Joist and Truss Spacing

Standard attic ladders are made to fit joists or trusses that have a spacing of 16 inches or 24 inches. And the spacing between the joists varies depending on the size of the joist, its length and the center distances of the joists.

If the joists are in the wrong position to place a ladder between them or the space between the joists is too small or too big, you would need to make some adjustments to the joists.

And these adjustments may involve cutting the roof or joists or adding trimmers on the joists. But it’s not advisable to do that without the help of a professional.

Louisville Ladder Elite Attic Ladder Installation:

Weight Capacity

Attic ladders come in varying lengths. So you need to measure the distance between the floor and your attic to estimate just how big a ladder you should get lengthwise.

Another key feature is the carrying capacity of the ladder. If you weigh 200 pounds, consider getting a ladder that has a total load capacity of 350 pounds or more.

And this is because you also need to consider the weight of the items that you need to carry up and down the ladder.

Material

Attic ladders come in different materials. And these include wood, fiberglass, aluminum, and steel. Aluminum ladders are well-liked because they are lightweight, sturdy, and don’t cost a lot.

Fiberglass ladders are popular because of their durability, electricity and heat resistant properties, and their ability to withstand any weather condition.

But mainly most attic ladders are made of aluminum and wood. Wooden ladders are strong and sturdy but they are not as durable as aluminum ladders because they are not waterproof.

Via: @matthew_evz

Ladders made of steel are quite strong or sturdy. And some are even heat resistant. But one issue with steel ladder is that they are heavy. Installing them is a two-man job and time consuming.

So when choosing a ladder based on material, consider what the weather is like where you live. And how much you are willing to spend.

Insulation

Attic openings if not sealed properly can bring in cold air into the home. And they can also be a source of heat loss.

So if you plan on installing a ladder to gain access to your attic, consider a ladder that has a tight closing or insulated door.

Other considerations

• Slip-resistant steps – safety on a ladder is essential so ensure that the ladder steps are slip-resistant.
• Handrail – some ladders come with handrails and others don’t. Handrails are handy when you carry items up, down the ladder.
• Style of ladder – telescope ladders extend the same way as straight ladders, while foldable ladders are collapsible.
• Budget – although most attic ladders are affordable, prices vary from ladder to ladder. Features that may increase the cost of a ladder include material, handrails, insulation, weight capacity and more.

Conclusion

Installing an attic ladder in your home can be beneficial. It allows you to access and use your attic which would otherwise go unused. And I don’t know any homeowner who wouldn’t want the extra space to use as they please.

No matter what you need to do with the extra attic space getting the right attic ladder can save you a whole world of pain moneywise and timewise.

We hope that this article, which has discussed what you need to look for when finding an attic ladder has been useful.