How to Build an Attic Access Ladder

- 1 sheet of 3/4-inch plywood

- 2 pieces of 2x4 lumber, each 8 feet long

- 1 piece of 1x6 lumber, 8 feet long

- 1 piece of 1x4 lumber, 8 feet long

- Wood screws

- Lag bolts

- Hinges

- Safety latch

Tools:

- Circular saw

- Miter saw

- Drill

- Sander

- Measuring tape

- Level

Instructions:

1. Cut the plywood into the following pieces:

- 2 pieces 36 inches by 24 inches

- 2 pieces 36 inches by 12 inches

- 2 pieces 24 inches by 24 inches

2. Cut the 2x4 lumber into the following pieces:

- 4 pieces 36 inches long

- 4 pieces 24 inches long

3. Cut the 1x6 lumber into the following pieces:

- 2 pieces 36 inches long

- 2 pieces 24 inches long

4. Cut the 1x4 lumber into the following pieces:

- 2 pieces 36 inches long

- 2 pieces 24 inches long

5. Assemble the attic access ladder by following these steps:

- Attach the 36-inch-long 2x4s to the plywood pieces that are 36 inches by 24 inches, spacing them evenly.

- Attach the 24-inch-long 2x4s to the plywood pieces that are 24 inches by 24 inches, spacing them evenly.

- Attach the 36-inch-long 1x6s to the front of the ladder, covering the 2x4s.

- Attach the 24-inch-long 1x4s to the back of the ladder, covering the 2x4s.

6. Attach the hinges to the attic access ladder and the attic floor or ceiling framing, according to the manufacturer's instructions.

7. Install the safety latch on the attic access ladder, according to the manufacturer's instructions.

8. Sand the ladder and finish it with a coat of paint or varnish.