What is the best loft ladder, timber or aluminium?
Loft ladders as you know, come in a variety of sizes, materials and styles and it isn’t always easy to choose one for your space. Before looking at material options it’s important to start your search by looking at your space. Measuring up will allow you to, first of all, see if you can have a wooden ladder or if an aluminium telescopic ladder may be the only one to fit.
Start by measuring up, there are many things that need measuring including things you’ve probably never heard of before such as Vertical Clearance Height and Landing Space. Here is a little guide to simplify this information for you.
Loft Ladder Material - Wood vs Aluminium
The material now has to be considered when selecting a loft ladder. The most popular material to use for loft ladders is wood and aluminium ladders. Each material has its own pros and cons, below we’ve outlined the benefits and drawbacks of each product.
Advantages of a wooden ladder
Wooden ladders are known for being strong, robust and reliable. If you choose to take heavy loads up to your attic, they can feel a lot safer, all certified loft ladders have a maximum load and timber ladders are often stronger than aluminium. Wooden ladders also come with an attached hatch, giving you the complete kit to fit directly into your ceiling.
Thanks to their extra strength and sturdy build wooden loft ladders usually have wider and more comfortable steps, giving extra protection and security, specifically preferred by children or the elderly.
Wood is also a durable material that, even with daily use and heavy loads, is unlikely to crack, and as wooden ladders tend to have a classic look that blends in with modern interior design trends.
The drawbacks of a wooden ladder
Although they are solid and durable, wooden loft ladders are bigger and heavier than alternatives, making them harder to lift up and down. (A semi-automatic wooden loft ladder can be used to avoid this situation).
Wooden loft ladders also tend to be more expensive than their aluminium counterparts. Another downside of wooden ladders is that they usually come with a loft hatch attached to them and if you have a small space you will not be able to fit a wooden loft ladder in your ceiling without making your space larger.
Advantages of an Aluminium Loft Ladder
Aluminium is a very lightweight material, making it easier for individuals who are unable to lift heavy objects to operate their loft ladder with ease. When they are out, they even look smaller than wood ladders, making them less visible.
Aluminium is an easy metal to work with too, meaning aluminium ladders are also styled to be folding, telescopic or sliding, being much more flexible when space is at a premium.
Aluminium loft ladders are typically a cheaper choice than wood ladders, but they are still of high quality and certified to the same standards. Some aluminium ladders are perfect for infrequent use and others use a heavier and more sustainable aluminium for commercial applications. Aluminium is resistant to corrosion, unlike other metals, meaning it can stand the test of time, even in humid conditions.
Disadvantages of an Aluminium Loft Ladder
When climbing up and down an aluminium loft ladder, they are more likely to make noise and feel a little less sturdy than timber loft ladders. If heights are not your thing you definitely want to feel more secure and comfortable and timber is maybe the way to go.
Aluminium ladders are also blamed for appearing unattractive as the aluminium gives off an industrial look. They are less likely to blend in to make them an eyesore with your interior décor, but on the other hand, you have to weigh up how much you’re going to use it.
Recommendation
As you can see, when deciding on a loft ladder, there are plenty of important things to consider. There are merits and disadvantages in both wood and aluminium ladders, but both are a long-lasting and reliable choice.
For those who have a traditional, cosy home and want to keep their loft ladder in keeping with this theme. Then a wooden loft ladder would be perfect. They are also ideal for individuals who need a robust choice. The wood can also withstand heavy objects and daily use must better than an aluminium loft ladder would be able to.
Aluminium ladders, on the other hand, are more suitable for those who want a lightweight and safe ladder for simple and safe access to the loft. If you are having any trouble deciding which loft ladder is best for you then give our expert team a call on 01204 590 232.