PREPARING
THE
OPENING
1.
Mark out the rough opening size for your unit according to TABLE A.
2.
Cut the rough opening through the ceiling material.
FRAMING
THE
OPENING
Most attic stairs will be installed parallel to the ceiling joists (Figure 3). In cases where
they are installed perpendicular to joists (Figure 4), some joists will need to be cut and
tied-in to other joists with 2” x 6” or 2” x 8” “headers”. These headers will form the box
frame into which the stair will be secured.
•
Before cutting any joists, watch out for electrical wiring.
•
If your attic is constructed using trusses, DO NOT CUT CEILING JOISTS
WITHOUT CONSULTING AN ENGINEER AND OBTAINING APPROVAL.
•
Because of the weight of the Rainbow Attic Stair it is highly recommended
that DOUBLE HEADERS and JOIST BRACES be used for greater strength
and safety.
WARNING
Figure 3
Figure 4
HEADERS
JOIST BRACE
HEADERS
JOIST BRACE
INSTALLING
THE
STAIR
1.
Have two additional helpers below lift the stair straight up into the framed opening
and set stair off to the side.
2.
Nail 3 boards to bottom of opening as temporary supports for the stair. Figure 5
3.
Lower stair onto temporary supports and square stair to frame, maintaining an
even gap all around between stair and headers.
4.
Shim and anchor stair to frame using lag screws. Pre-drill holes first. Figure 6
5.
DOOR CAN NOW BE OPENED BUT DO NOT STAND ON STAIR YET.
•
Be sure that there is adequate light in the attic since the stair will block
any light from the room below when raised into place.
•
Make sure door is closed and latch is engaged
WARNING
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