Types of loft ladders: Pros, cons and how to choose
It might not be something you think about regularly, but having the right type of loft ladder can make a big difference in how easy it is to access your belongings. Instead of dreading going up into the loft and putting it off for days, a good ladder can make it much less of a hindrance.
From folding ladders that store away neatly to save space to fixed options that make accessing a loft conversion easy, there are plenty of types to choose from, and we’re here to help you find the best one.
In this expert guide, you’ll learn all about the different types of loft ladders and their pros and cons, along with our top product picks to make shopping them easier.
1. Sliding loft ladder
Pros
- Easy to install
- Space-efficient
- Sturdy
- Lightweight
Cons
- Substantial clearance needs
- Can be fiddly to operate
- May not be suitable for upwards opening loft hatches
Sliding loft ladders – as the name suggests – slide up into the loft when they’re not in use, making them a perfect choice for smaller hallways where floor space is at a minimum. According to Joe Dudley, Marketing Coordinator at LB Supplies, they’re typically made from aluminum, which is lightweight yet capable of holding a lot of weight.
He also praises how simple they are to install: “Sliding loft ladders usually have spring-loaded catches that make them easy to use and are considered much simpler to install than folding or concertina ladders.”
However, this type of loft ladder needs enough vertical clearance to allow the sections to slide and may not be suitable for upward-opening hatches (unless you make an alteration). Some people also find them tricky to pull down and push up if they are not spring-assisted.
“I have a sectional loft ladder for accessing our loft and am a big fan of how it takes up minimal space in the loft when not in use. Accessing the ladder is easy using a pole that hooks the ladder and allows you to pull it down gently,” says Beth Murton, Editor of Homebuilding & Renovating.
“You can then release each section using the locking catch to fully extend the ladder to the ground. When stored in the loft, each section slides on top of the other so it takes up minimal floor space, ensuring you can maximise the potential storage area in the loft. It’s sturdy but lightweight to use and can easily be operated by one person.”
3 Section Compact Aluminium Loft Ladder
This aluminium loft ladder has a compact design to save space and features non-slip D-shaped rungs for safety.
Joe Dudley is the marketing coordinator at LB Supplies, a leading UK supplier of products for the construction and DIY industries. He is part of a highly experienced team, and has a wide range of knowledge that he is keen to share with trades and consumers alike.
For the past 20+ years, Beth has worked for and contributed to a number of leading magazines and websites in the UK, including Homes & Gardens, Real Homes, Ideal Home, Period Living and Grand Designs.
2. Folding loft ladders
Pros
- Space-saving design
- Good for limited headroom
- Attractive
- Heavy
- Requires a larger ceiling opening
- Limited load capacity
Folding ladders are usually made from wood and fold up into your loft when not in use. For this reason, they are a very space-efficient choice and won’t take up too much room in either your loft or your hallway.
Joe Dudley adds that this can also be useful if your loft has limited headroom, as well as looking more attractive and tidy compared to a fixed ladder.
However, it’s worth bearing in mind that wood can be heavy to lift and operate, and you may need to maintain the ladder’s hinges regularly to ensure it unfolds easily. Some models also have a limited weight capacity and thin steps.
Joe adds, “Folding ladders require a larger opening in the ceiling and will need adequate clearing space for the ladder to unfold, so they may not be suited to smaller homes.” If this is the case, you may need to make your loft hatch bigger.
Wooden Timber Folding Loft Ladder
This folding loft ladder is made from a mix of pine and spruce wood and has a 150kg capacity.
3. Concertina loft ladder
Pros
- Most space-efficient choice
- Easy to install
- Stable and secure
Cons
- More expensive
- Regular maintenance
- Weight constraints
According to Joe Dudley, concertina loft ladders are the most space-efficient choice of all the different types, folding into a compact unit that sits on top of the loft hatch and doesn’t require any extra space for storage.
He confirms that they can be installed in almost any ceiling hatch, and their wide steps and non-slip treads make them stable and secure to use. They also usually have locking mechanisms to keep the ladder in place for added safety and peace of mind.
While concertina loft ladders offer many appealing features, they do come at a higher price point due to their complex mechanisms and can be more expensive to install. They also tend to have a lower weight capacity, so be sure to double-check this before making your purchase.
Joe adds, “The mechanism of the ladder has a lot of pivot points, and these may require regular maintenance to stop them from sticking.”
10-Tread Concertina Loft Ladders
This concertina loft ladder is available in three different sizes and comes with an attachment for an operating pole.
4. Telescopic loft ladders
Pros
- Compact design
- Easy to install
- Adjustable height
Cons
- Can be less sturdy
- Can be fiddly
- Weight restrictions
Telescopic loft ladders are another great choice for smaller homes – they retract into themselves to create a compact design that’s easy to store. They’re also suitable for most types of hatches without the need for any significant structural changes.
Typically made from aluminium, these loft ladders are lightweight to lift and maneuver, and have an adjustable height that you can customise depending on your roof – particularly helpful if your ceiling is uneven.
“They are great for keeping upstairs to use for lofts as they are small and don’t take up much storage space,” says Sarah Harley, Assistant Editor at Homebuilding & Renovating. “The catches to release or close each rung can be a bit fiddly sometimes, but other than that, they work well.”
Telescopic Loft Ladder
This telescopic ladder comes recommended by Sarah Harley and features non-slip feet and a safety lock.
Sarah is Homebuilding & Renovating’s Assistant Editor and joined the team in 2024. An established homes and interiors writer, Sarah has renovated and extended a number of properties, including a listing building and renovation project that featured on Grand Designs.
5. Electric loft ladders
Pros
- Convenient design
- Highly accessible
Cons
- High upfront costs
- Harder to install
If you’re sick of fiddly loft ladders that are cumbersome to use, electric models offer a solution, powered by the click of a button. Chris Lawson, Founder of Online Drawing UK, says they are a popular choice in modern loft conversions or projects with larger budgets.
“Electric loft ladders offer more convenience as their main selling point, particularly for homeowners who want easy access at the push of a button or may have mobility considerations,” he says.
But before you get excited and add one to your renovation wish list, be prepared to spend significantly more upfront, as well as on installation costs.
Electric Loft Ladder with Z-Wave Controlled Kit
This electric ladder can be controlled using your phone or a standard switch, taking the hassle out of loft visits.
Chris Lawson is the founder of OnlineDrawing UK and has owned architectural businesses for over 15 years. He’s worked on projects across the UK, winning multiple awards for his work and has been featured in publications globally, including National Geographic, the New York Post, and countless other magazines.
6. Fixed loft ladders
If you need regular access to your loft or have converted it into a living area or storage space, a fixed ladder is the best option. According to Chris Lawson, they are straightforward, cost-effective and make it easy to get in and out on a daily basis.
Unlike other types, such as concertina and telescopic, fixed ladders are highly durable, low-maintenance, and can withstand a heavy load.
“The main drawback is that they require permanent space and aren’t as discreet as retractable or electric systems, but a good design usually means that this isn’t an issue to begin with. The best choice comes down to balancing convenience and space,” adds Chris.
Staircase Kit Space Saving Dolle Arundel
Crafted from FSC-certified wood, this space-saving staircase comes with all the fixings, as well as a two-year guarantee.
Now that you know about the different types of loft ladders, it will be easier to make an informed decision. In conclusion, fixed staircases are best for regular access, electric ladders for convenience, and concertina ladders for small spaces.
For more expert advice, read our guide on how to insulate a loft hatch and the cost of a loft conversion.