How to Install Pull-Down Attic Stairs

Before cutting the joist, first brace it to prevent sagging as you’re cutting it. Do this by laying a plank of lumber perpendicular to the joist. Secure by drilling a minimum of two nails through the lumber and into the joist. Repeat this step with a second piece of lumber on the opposite side.

Now that the joists are braced, it’s time to cut them. Start out with a circular saw, stopping short of cutting all the way through.

Finish off the cut with a small box saw so that you don’t damage any drywall.

Next, put two pieces of lumber in the front to header it off and two pieces in the back. The two pieces will run perpendicular to the cut joist, and then you’ll use a double joist hanger for support.

Now that the framing is in place, mark your four corners. Drive a screw down through each of the four corners, and then cut the drywall from underneath. That'll keep the area cleaner, and you likely won’t have to make any repairs to the drywall.

Attach the pull cord through the hole right on the back of the stair unit.

Next, mount temporary support boards to the bottom side of the header. This will give you a temporary place for the attic stairs to rest while you work.

This next step is a two-person job. One person needs to be in the attic and the other person down below. Once in position, the person below will hand the stairs up to the person in the attic who'll position it into place. Once you get it where you need it, lower it back down onto the temporary supports.

Add the temporary support screws so you can get everything shimmed in exactly where it’s supposed to be. Predrill on the hinge side for your lag screws.

Now that the attic stair is in place, test it for smooth operation and make sure it works properly. Once it does, remove the temporary supports and trim any shims you used to put it in place.

Since the ladders are adjustable, take a measurement from the floor all the way to the bottom edge, opposite the hinge.

Now it’s finally time to cut the tie. Unfold the ladder and cut the legs off to size.

To get the ladder finally fit to size, slide the adjustable feet onto the legs in place. Apply pressure so it sits squarely on the floor, then mark the hole with a pencil, drill the hole and insert the bolt.

If you like, add decorative trim to finish it off.