Remove trim surrounding existing opening using a hammer.
How to install fold down attic stairs.
Snap chalk lines onto the ceiling to represent the rough opening of the attic staircase.
Cut out the ceiling joist and any wood blocking that s in the opening.
Determine the area where you want to place your stairs.
You ll then use the ceiling joists to determine the final location.
In this video this old house general contractor tom silva explains how to install attic stairs.
Remove joists and other obstructions.
How to install a folding attic ladder step 1.
Mark rough opening of new fold down staircase on the ceiling joists in the attic.
Cut around ceiling trim with a utility knife.
Construct the opening.
Next using an electric drill pop a screw up through the drywall in the ceiling as a reference point so that when you go up in the attic you ll be able to locate it and find the general location of the attic stair.
Remove existing attic stairs with a reciprocating saw.
Use a reciprocating saw to cut joists and nails holding any joists that must be removed.