Loft ladder types: which one suits your home?

A fitted loft ladder makes a loft much safer and easier to use than a stepladder. There are a few main types, and the right one depends on your ceiling height, hatch size and the space around the hatch. This guide explains the options.

Folding (sectional) ladders

Folding ladders come in two or three sections that fold onto the back of the hatch door. When you pull the hatch down, the sections unfold to the floor.

• Usually timber, sometimes aluminium
• Feel solid and stable underfoot, with wider treads on many models
• Need clear space below for the ladder to swing down, and above in the loft for it to fold away
• Often supplied with an insulated hatch as one unit

Sliding (telescopic) ladders

Sliding ladders are usually aluminium, in two or three sections that slide over one another. They are pulled down and extended to the floor, and slide back up into the loft.

• Need less space below the hatch to deploy
• Sit in the loft when stowed, so need room there
• Light and simple

Concertina ladders

Concertina ladders fold up like an accordion, so they take up very little space when stowed.

• Useful where space above and below the hatch is very limited
• Often a compact choice for small hatches
• Treads tend to be narrower than on folding ladders

How to choose

• Floor-to-ceiling height: each ladder is made for a range of heights.
• Hatch size: some ladders need a minimum opening. A small hatch may need enlarging; see loft hatch replacement.
• Space below: landings, stairwells and doors limit where a ladder can land.
• Space above: the ladder must fold or slide away in the loft without hitting rafters, tanks or boarding.
• Who uses it: wider treads and a handrail make regular use more comfortable.

Ladders and loft conversions

Loft ladders are for access to a storage loft. The Planning Portal says retractable ladders or stairs are not normally acceptable for a loft conversion, which needs a proper stair. See boarding vs conversion.

We supply and fit loft ladders. See loft ladder fitting, and consider a boarded area near the hatch so you have a safe place to step off; see loft boarding.

Common questions

Which loft ladder is best?

There is no single best type. It depends on your ceiling height, hatch size and the space above and below. We measure and advise.

Do loft ladders come with a hatch?

Many folding ladders are supplied with an insulated hatch as one unit. Sliding and concertina ladders vary.

Can I use a loft ladder for a loft conversion?

The Planning Portal says retractable ladders are not normally acceptable for a conversion, which needs a proper stair.

Get a free quote

Areas we cover

Bromley | Orpington | Beckenham | Chislehurst | West Wickham | Hayes, Bromley | Petts Wood | Biggin Hill