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What Are the Different Types of Aluminum Attic Ladders?

Troy Holmes
Troy Holmes

Pull-down attic ladders are a great idea for any attic renovation project. These attached ladders are designed to slide from the attic space and fit nicely with most interior decor. Aluminum attic ladders are a good choice of ladder because they are durable and lightweight. The types of aluminum attic ladders available include pull down, sliders and telescope designs, all of which come in multiple sizes and colors.

Most attic spaces are suited for foldable pull down ladders. This type of ladder folds into three pieces and is attached to the ceiling rafters. Aluminum attic ladders are also used in home garages. These ladders are easy to clean and require very little maintenance. Many home garages use either a folding or slider attic ladder design, which is self contained in the ceiling space of the attic.

Woman with hand on her hip
Woman with hand on her hip

It is important to measure the distance from the ceiling to the floor before selecting an attic ladder. This will help determine the size and weight requirements needed. Each type of ladder has a specific height and weight capacity that defines the maximum load that can be placed on the latter.

Aluminum ladders have metal foot pegs that are connected to side rail through special fittings. These pegs and rails can be cleaned with most aluminum detergents. Ladder manufacturers recommend periodic lubrication of the slider components to limit unwanted rust.

Heavy-duty aluminum attic ladders can hold more then 350 pounds (158.76 kg). This is usually adequate to support large objects that a homeowner might carry up the ladder to store in the attic. Heavy-duty ladders are more useful in commercial garages where extra weight capacity is necessary.

The slider ladder is a popular attic ladder design. These types of aluminum attic ladders slide and collapse to fit nicely into a ceiling space. The slider ladder uses reinforced slider rails to make opening and closing easy and secure.

Aluminum attic ladders are typically available with either gray or black coatings. The ladder rails are visible when the ladder is fully opened, giving the room an industrial look and feel. This design fits best for garages or lofts that have a metal or rot iron decor.

Telescoping attic ladders are a new modern form of attic ladder that are available in many flashy colors. These ladders easily fold into the ceiling space of most attics. The telescope ladders are durable and colorful, which makes them a good option for a contemporary design.

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