Loft space is a useful benefit of owning a house, bungalow or top-floor flat with an angled or pitched roof, and it can be used in a multitude of ways. Some homeowners convert their loft into an additional living space by revamping the interior, adding skylights, and converting the space into an extra bedroom, office, studio, or even a cosy snug, where they can escape from the rest of the family for a bit of R&R.
Even if the loft space is only used for storage, access can often be a major challenge. If the loft is not easily accessible, it not only adds stress to the daily routine around the house but could also be quite hazardous.
When it comes to accessing your loft space, there are various solutions available. However, if you have never chosen a loft ladder before, it can be difficult to know what to look for.
Like many homeowners, you may well have grown accustomed to grabbing your stepladder whenever you want to go up into your loft; but, doing so takes more time and effort than it would if you had a loft ladder fitted that enabled you to access the loft space with ease. If you have elderly members of your family that need access to the loft, you could take a look at the article we made to help avoid issue.
Loft ladders are simple to unfold and extend, and they are equally simple to fold back up when you are finished using them. Loft ladders make access to loft spaces simple and swift, without the need to store a separate ladder in your shed or garage.
There are numerous loft ladder solutions for various property types, and if you have limited space there are some options that will suit your specific needs. In this article, we will look at some of the most popular options for loft ladders when you have space limitations.
Space Measurement
In all likelihood, the first step you will need to take is to take some measurements to estimate the height difference between the ground level of the landing and the tops of the roof joints used to construct the loft floor. In addition, measure the loft hatch itself to ensure that the ladders you choose will fit through it.
Fold and Slide Loft Ladders for Small Spaces
One of the most common designs for loft ladders that are ideal for use in areas with limited space is the fold and slide style, which commonly comes in two or three sections.
If you are concerned about your safety when standing on a set of ladders, you might find it more convenient to choose one with an attached handrail, which will make you feel more secure.
Concertina Loft Ladders for Small Spaces
Another popular option for loft ladders that can be used in small spaces is the concertina style. They function similarly to sliding ladders, but they take up less space in your loft and are thus useful in cases when there is only a limited amount of clearing area.
It is important to remember that investing in a higher-quality concertina loft ladder may end up costing you a little more expensive than some of the other options available. This is because of the enormous amount of engineering that goes into their design.
Telescopic Loft Ladders for Small Spaces
Telescopic loft ladders are one of the most popular forms of loft ladders since they save space. Because they take up the least amount of space when stored, you will have considerably more room for all of your items.
A telescopic loft ladder gives safe and efficient access to your loft and is a great option for tiny and narrow areas. This is primarily down to their unique design, which essentially allows it to fold in on itself, allowing you to save room while still having easy, safe access to your loft.
Another benefit of telescopic loft ladders is their aesthetics, they are visually appealing with a clean and basic design. Telescopic loft ladders are essentially a more compact, adaptable, and practical version of a regular loft ladder. The telescopic mechanism and shape provide for easy space saving and are excellent for small openings and spaces.
To use a telescopic loft ladder, open the hatch and extend the ladder using the operational pole. Telescopic ladders also include wide treads and a locking system, making them safer and more comfortable to use.
Wood or Aluminium Loft Ladders?
When you are looking for a loft ladder for a small space you must determine whether a wooden or aluminium loft ladder would be more suited to you and your needs.
Safety is paramount of course, but noise is another element that you need to bear in mind. When compared to aluminium loft ladders, wooden loft ladders are safer and more secure and are less likely to buckle or “bounce” when you ascend or descend them. Wooden loft ladders are also much quieter, and they won’t squeak when you step on them.
You should also examine how much noise there is. In comparison to aluminium ladders, wood ladders are not only far more secure but also generally far less noisy.
Maximum Weight Considerations
Loft ladders have a maximum weight that you need to consider when you are using them. You have to take into consideration your weight and the weight of the load you are hauling up and down the ladder.
Overloading the loft ladder could result in the loft ladder buckling under the excessive weight if it is made of aluminium or steel. While a wooden ladder wouldn’t buckle under the weight, the treads could split or snap if too much weight is put on them.
Consider the maximum weight that a ladder can safely support, as well as the weight of any boxes you may be hauling up and down the ladder.
Summary
You must research the different types of loft ladders available so you can choose the best loft ladder one for you and your personal needs.
If you are still unsure then a company like BPS that specialises in access solutions will be able to help you make the right choice.
