Expert: Bruce E. Johnson - 2/1/2009

Question
I have an attic door, the fold down kind.  I want to take it down, and be able to re-use it in another home.  My question is, what is the correct way of taking it down, without ruining it?

Answer
Hi Norma, the best way to take down a pull down ladder (it sounds like this is what you are describing) is to have someone get up into the attic with a sawzall (reciprocating saw) that has a bimetal blade.  The person above cuts the nails or screws holding the unit in place.  Someone below supports the unit unti the nails are cut and it should come right out.  They weigh about forty pounds so make sure the one below is strong enough to hold that much weight.  The person above can help support it afte the cutting is done also and help lower it to the floor.  I hope this information helps feel free to write again regarding this or other matters,sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com