Have you recently moved into a new house with a loft space but you have no way of accessing the loft? Or maybe you are planning to turn your attic into a storage area and will need a convenient way of accessing it?
Installing a loft ladder is a simple solution that will enable you to maximise the use of space in your home. However, is it something you can tackle yourself using your existing DIY skills, or it’s something best left to a professional builder?
What are the average loft ladder prices and how much does it cost to have a loft hatch installed? This article will address everything you need to know about loft ladder installation costs.
Types of Loft ladders
The cost of installing loft ladders varies depending on the kind of loft ladder selected. Some types will suit existing loft openings where you just need to gain access to the attic or to replace an old ladder. In some instances, however, you will need a complete solution including access hatch. Types of loft ladders will fall into two broad categories:
- Sliding loft ladders.
- Folding loft ladders.
Construction materials include wood, aluminium and sometimes steel for heavy duty ladders. Aluminium is ideal because it is lightweight and durable while wood is also durable and has better aesthetic properties.
You can purchase simple loft ladders, and loft ladder systems from DIY and trade stores. If you are just looking for a replacement loft ladder, all you need to know is your ceiling height (so you know the size of the ladder to buy). However, you may often have to find storage space for the ladder.
This is where loft ladder systems come into their own. Loft ladders systems are ideal for new loft access installations and often come with access hatch. If they are the folding type, then you should make sure the ladder does not take up vital loft space.
DIY or professional?
One of the most commonly asked question when it comes to loft ladder installations is “do I need a professional to install my loft ladder for me?” There is no straight answer to this question as it all depends on how good you think you would be at loft ladder installations.
At the end of the day, you want a loft ladder that is safe to use, functional and does not compromise the structural integrity of the ceiling/attic floor. If you are confident you would do a great enough job to tick all the boxes, then you could do it yourself.
On the other hand, the benefits of using a professional include the following:
- You will get a professional finish, they do this day in day out and can recommend the best loft ladder to suit your particular loft.
- A professional will install your loft ladder quicker than if you did it yourself.
- You save yourself time and ultimately money as you eliminate the risk of damaging your home.
- It’s convenient.
- You will have safe and secure access to your loft.
- Increased storage space in your home.
Factors affecting loft ladder installation prices
When considering loft ladder installations always ensure the quotes you receive include loft ladders. Any professional contractor will pay you a visit to see and measure up the work that needs doing, as well as explaining the various options available. If someone gives you a price over the phone, just be polite and hang up. So the things that will be taken into account when determining the overall cost include:
- Type of loft ladder.
- Whether you need a new hatch.
- If you are adapting an existing opening, the cost would be lower than cutting a new hole then installing the loft hatch and ladder.
- New hatch installations will typically include a draught excluder.
For a typical and simple 2 section aluminium ladder to be fitted into an existing loft opening, with loft adaptation prices for supply and fitting can range between £175 and £250. This range of pricing is at the bottom range and as discussed earlier loft ladder costs will vary with your specific requirements and ladder choices.
Next step, finding the right professional
In this article, we have covered the types of loft ladders, why you can do it yourself if you have enough skill and experience and why you should consider hiring a professional. We have also touched on loft ladder installation costs and why getting a quote is the best way forward.
Always ensure your chosen contractor specialises in loft ladders installation (it’s no good going to the GP if you have a heart problem right?). If you have any questions about this article or loft ladders, in general, please feel free to contact us and we will be happy to answer your questions. For competitive pricing and quotations from reputable tradesmen, you can always go to Quotatis.