(Dolle Hobby Wooden Loft Ladder pictured)
When it comes to having a loft ladder installed in your home, one of the first questions you might ask yourself is - are all loft hatches the same size? There are so many different loft ladder designs on the market, that it can be difficult to know which one will be the best fit for your home. Can you just pick any loft ladder that takes your fancy, or should you measure your loft hatch first?
If you don't want to make any structural changes to your home, then yes, it probably is wise to measure your loft ladder hatch and use this as a guide when you're shopping. However, if you're happy to do a bit of DIY to create a loft ladder that's bigger than the existing one, then that opens you up to a much wider range of products.
What are the common loft hatch sizes?
Here in the UK, there are certain building regulations that builders have to follow when they're building a house, so there are a few loft hatch sizes that we time and time again. Here are some of the UK's common loft hatch measurements:
- 562mm x 726mm
- 450mm x 600mm
- 600mm x 700mm
- 700mm x 900mm
Don't see your loft hatch measurements here? Don't panic. There isn't really a standard size when it comes to loft hatches, and it's common for loft hatches to be much bigger than the dimensions we've listed here. Smaller loft hatches are great if you're only interested in installing a streamlined loft ladder - typically made of aluminium. However, if you're keen to have a larger loft hatch opening so you can install a wooden loft ladder, or so you can lift large items of furniture up into your loft space, then you might need to make your existing loft hatch a bit bigger!
What to do if your loft hatch is too small?
If you've had a look at some of the loft ladders we have available here at Ladders UK Direct, and you've realised that your existing loft hatch is too small for the loft ladder you wish to install, then there are ways you can make it bigger!
First, you need to measure out the size of the loft hatch opening you need and allow a few inches (we recommend 4 or 5 inches) on either side. Next, you'll need to make sure the area in the roof that you're cutting into doesn't contain any wires or pipes. You don't want to end up with a ton of other repair jobs to do in the process. You can use a wire/pipe detector to check for signs of metal, but if you are in doubt, always seek the help of a professional.
If you need to cut through any ceiling joists to alter the size of your loft hatch opening, you will need to enlist the help of a structural engineer. They will carry out tests to ensure that the roof you're cutting into (and the walls below it) will remain stable and upright after the work is done. Once you've made the loft hatch opening big enough, all you need to do is place your order and we'll make sure you get all the installation instructions you need to install your loft ladder and start using your attic space right away.
Best-selling loft ladders
So, now you know that all loft hatches aren't the same size, let's take a look at some of our best-selling loft ladders to see what size loft hatches they require. As always, if you're unsure about which loft ladder would best suit your home, our team of specialists is on hand to help you out. You can send us an email with your requirements at sales@laddersukdirect.co.uk, and we'll be more than happy to offer you some guidance.
Dolle Hobby (1200 x 700)
The Dolle Hobby Wooden Loft Ladder (pictured at the beginning of this blog), is one of our best-selling loft ladders, and for good reason! It features a stunning, wooden design, is comfortable to climb and is very easy to install in most homes. The minimum loft hatch opening width for this loft ladder is 700mm, and the minimum opening length is 1200mm. This allows plenty of room for you to move things up and down from the attic as and when you need to!
Shop Dolle Hobby (1200 x 700) >
3-Section Hideaway Aluminium Loft Ladder
If you're looking for a loft ladder that requires a significantly smaller hatch size, this 3-Section Hideaway Aluminium Loft Ladder is perfect for you. It offers a max load of 150kg, which is perfect for carrying most household items, and it also features a built-in handrail for additional security while you climb. The loft hatch requirements for this loft ladder are only 380mm x 460mm - meaning it will fit in even the smallest loft hatches.
Buy 3-Section Hideaway Aluminium Loft Ladder >
Not seen a loft ladder that appeals to you here? We have a huge selection of loft ladders for you to choose from. Browse the full selection below.
Loft Ladders >
