Please note: DO NOT DISMANTLE the loft ladder once it has been assembled. 

For models in which the ladder is fixed to the trapdoor (not clickFIX® model). If, during installation, you wish to detach the ladder to reduce the weight of the loft ladder, loosen the screws between the metal bracket and the ladder itself. Do not loosen the screws on the trapdoor as these can easily be overtightened when reassembled. An overtightened screw may lose its grip on the timber and, in serious cases, fall out.  

Positioning the loft ladder: 

Wear gloves when removing insulation material. Check that the area selected for positioning the ladder is from electrical wiring, water pipes, heating/cooling pipes, etc. If necessary, get a qualified trade to remove and esure the area is clear . Make sure that there is sufficient clearance (distance B) for the ladder to rest on the floor. Make sure that there is sufficient space for the ladder to fold out to its full length (C). For two-section models, make sure that there is sufficient swing space. See these data under DOWNLOADS at each loft ladder. For specific measurements and adjustment options, see the assembly instructions supplied with the product.

To make opening in ceiling

We recommend that you wear goggles and mask for protection. Protect the area from falling dust and other particles from the loft space. Remove all items of furniture from the work area and cover the floor. 

 Frame and cut the opening through plaster or other ceiling material. The recommended opening size is stated on the loft ladder packaging. The opening must be at least 10 mm longer and 10 mm wider than the ladder casing. This allows space for spacer blocks and ensures that the loft ladder is fitted square. If the loft ladder cannot be fitted in the normal way, i.e. parallel with the ceiling joists, contact a qualified trade for advice. Figures to the left show how to frame the ceiling opening. If the loft ladder is to be installed parallel to the rafters, a frame must be constructed in the loft floor so that the casing can be secured on all four sides. The opening for the loft ladder should match the recommended opening size for the loft ladder model. If necessary, the dimensions can be adjusted using a trimmer. If in doubt, it is advisable to consult a professional.
If the loft ladder is to be installed across the rafters, a trimmer must be installed between the rafters. This should be carried out by a professional to ensure that the load-bearing capacity of the rafters is not compromised. 

WARNING: If the ceiling joists are made in a material other than timber, e.g. steel, contact a qualified trade. Ne­ver saw through a load-bearing joist without advice from a qualified engineer. Take great care when sawing ceiling joists. For safety's sake, if there is no loft flooring, lay planks across the ceiling joists to allow safe passage in the loft during installation.

Fitting temporary supports

To keep the loft ladder in place in the ceiling opening during installation, you are advised to fit temporary supports. If the trapdoor will be clad, the loft ladder must be fitted as many mm higher in the opening as the thickness of the cladding. Cladding material must not weigh more than 6 kg per m2. Cladding material must not be more than 12 mm thick. We recommend that the cladding is affixed using construction adhesive.

 WARNING: It is important that cladding is fitted firmly and correctly. When affixing cladding, the ladder must NOT be loaded.

Vapour barrier

When the loft ladder is firmly attached to the deck, the va­pour barrier must be attached in the correct way. The space between the loft ladder and the joist construction must be well-insulated to avoid thermal bridges.

Attaching the loft ladder

One fitter goes up into the loft space, taking all the tools they need. The other fitter remains below. clickFIX® models can be installed by one person (using a work platform). Lift the ladder up into the loft. Before lowering the loft ladder into the opening from above, attach 2 supporting planks under the ceiling opening. The loft ladder rests on these supports (see above movie).

Fold the ladder so that the frame can be attached to the ceiling opening. Make sure that the loft ladder is level and square. Attach the loft ladder with 100 mm screws (3 on each long side and 2 at each end - see movie). Don't forget to attach blocks on the back of the fixing points.

When the loft ladder is firmly attached, remove supports.

WARNING: Do not use the loft ladder before it is firmly attached to the opening and adjusted to the correct ceiling height. 

Adjusting to correct celing height

Pull down and unfold the ladder. Fold the lower section of the ladder under the middle section, so that the top and middle sections are aligned. Make sure that the treads are horizontal. To shorten the ladder precisely, follow the instructions for the specific model. Note whether the ladder is supplied with plastic feet. For most models, the ladder can be fine-tuned after shortening. DO NOT SHORTEN THE LADDER TOO MUCH. If the ladder is too short, it may unexpectedly fold up during use, thus risking serious personal injury. To check that the ladder is the correct length, unfold it to its full length. All sections of the ladder must be aligned perfectly with no gaps, and both strings must rest flat on the floor. 

WARNING: Do NOT use the ladder if all sections of the ladder are not aligned. If the ladder is too long, shorten the strings once more. If the ladder is too short, order a new lower section from your dealer. Do NOT allow the ladder to rest on a box, blocks, platform or similar. Such constructions are unsafe and unstable, and do not provide appropriate permanent support for the ladder. 

Adjusting the lock

The following video shows how to adjust the clickFIX® lock. It is important to adjust the lock housing to ensure the loft ladder fits tightly, preventing condensation and mold above the trapdoor.

How do I know that the trapdoor is correctly adjusted?

It should close without being forced, and the trapdoor should sit flush with the ceiling. Stand under the loft ladder when adjusting the lock.

How to use the ladder

For safety's sake, always face the ladder when climbing up and down and grip at least one string of the ladder (or grip the handrail). The following video show how to use the loft ladder safely.

Spring mechanism

The spring mechanism can be re-adjusted inside its frame using a chain link or by moving the springs up or down (depends on the model in question). Always adjust the spring mechanism when the trapdoor is closed. It may be necessary to adjust the spring mechanism if the trapdoor is to be clad. Take great care when making adjustments as the springs are very taut. Accidental release of the springs may cause personal injury.

IMPORTANT:

Never modify the product. The manufacturer accepts no liability whatsoever for personal injury or damage caused to the building or parts thereof by a product, whose construction has been modified.