Loft ladder types and how to choose one

Folding ladders

Folding ladders come in two or three hinged sections that fold up onto the back of the hatch door or onto a frame inside the loft. They are the most common type in homes. Timber folding ladders usually come as a kit with the hatch frame and insulated door attached, which gives a neat finish from below. They need enough space in the loft above the hatch to fold away, and enough clear landing below for the ladder to open out.

Sliding ladders

Sliding ladders have two or three sections that slide over each other and are pulled down with a pole. When stowed, they lie flat on the loft floor beside the hatch. They are usually aluminium, sturdy and simple, and suit hatches where there is length in the loft next to the opening. Because the sections overlap, the rungs are often less comfortable to stand on than a folding ladder's treads.

Concertina ladders

Concertina ladders fold up like an accordion into a compact block above the hatch. They suit small hatches and lofts with very little space around the opening, because they need almost no room to stow. They tend to be more expensive and the rungs can be narrow, so they are better for occasional use than for carrying boxes up and down every week.

Telescopic ladders

Telescopic ladders extend section by section from a short stack. They are useful where the hatch is small or there is no fixed position to mount a ladder, and some can be used as freestanding ladders elsewhere. They are not fixed to the hatch in the same way, so they suit occasional access rather than a permanent fitted solution.

• Folding: common, neat, needs space to fold above and below
• Sliding: robust, stows flat beside the hatch
• Concertina: compact, suits small hatches and tight lofts
• Telescopic: flexible, best for occasional access

Timber or aluminium?

Timber ladders feel solid, are warm to the touch and look good from below when the hatch is closed. They are heavier and need more care to fit level. Aluminium ladders are lighter, often cheaper and resist damp, which matters in a cold loft. Both can be strong enough for household use if you check the weight rating, which should comfortably cover your weight plus whatever you carry.

Matching the ladder to the hatch and head height

Every ladder lists a minimum hatch opening and a range of floor to ceiling heights it suits. Measure the hatch opening inside the frame, the height from the landing floor to the ceiling, and the clear space above the hatch in the loft. Check too that the ladder has room to land on the floor below without hitting a wall, stair or radiator. If the hatch is too small, it can usually be enlarged, as explained on loft hatch installation; the cost side is covered in the loft ladder installation cost guide.

Need it sorted? Book a loft ladder installation

Once you have a type in mind, book through loft ladder installation. Send photos of the hatch from below and above, with measurements, through the contact page and a suitable ladder can be recommended.

Frequently asked questions

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