Loft ladders can be split into two groups : conventional sliding ladders of two or three sections that slide up into the loft area, and special ladders for use when it is not possible to fit a conventional ladder.

Conventional ladders are much cheaper and account for about 99% of the ladders that we fit. Generally the specials offer no advantages over the conventioal ones except for not needing as much storage space in the loft.

Sliding Aluminium

Two or three sections and 100kg or 150kg load ratings.Simple to use, lightweight and reliable (many are still in use after 30 years of service). Available with or without a handrail. The most popular type of ladder.

Sliding Timber

Two sections and 150kg load rating. As above but in timber which some people consider more aesthetically pleasing. Does feel more rigid than the aluminium. but needs a lot of space in the loft.

Folding Timber

One of the specials.Stores on the hatch and doesn't need space in the loft to store into. More expensive than conventional timber above (towards twice as much) and several disadvantages see "our opinion" here

Domestic Concertina

Folds up like a piece of garden trellis and stores across the hatch opening. Rated at 100kg but because of all the linkages sways from side to side alarmingly in use. Safer than climbing on a chair or the bannister and we will fit one if you want us to, but to be honest you probably won't be happy with it. About a third more expensive than the the "best" conventional aluminium.

Industrial Concertina

Much heavier die cast aluminium arms and treads (weighs about 25kg). Spring counterbalancing for easy stowing and unlike the domestic version above, rigid in use. Duty rating 150kg. The down side the price, around £850 and its size. It is bulky and needs a large opening.

Telescopic Loft Ladder

Relativly new on the market and stores above the hatch. 150kg duty rating. We have not fitted one as the price, around £450 tends to put people off.

Electric Loft Ladder

Only listed here because we are often asked about them. The price, £2940 (ladder only, plus fitting charges) and their bulk, the hatch is 1200mm long ,mean they are not a practical solution.

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