Measure up for a Stira

There are only 3 important measurements you need to know before you order a Stira.*

1. Ceiling height

This is the most important measurement that we need, without it we can't give you a quote. We need to know the vertical distance from the floor to the ceiling (not floor to floor).

2. Rough opening width

The frame width is the outer dimensions of the Stira frame, this frame is fixed to the joists in the ceiling so it is important to ensure the frame will fit inbetween the joists. To ensure you sellect the correct Stira frame width, measure the rough opening between the joists in your ceiling this will give you the rough opening measurment, simply choose a Stira that is between 12mm (1/2”) and 24mm (1”) smaller than this distance.

3. Rough opening length

For the most part there is no need to worry about the frame length as it is set by the ceiling hieght. If however you are replacing another brand of loft ladder that has a long frame or require an extra large trapdoor opening we can custom build a Stira with a larger frame. Any change in the frame length will require a custom build. Making the frame length shorter than standard is harder and at most we can reduce the length by 2”.

What about clearance above the opening?

This is not an issue with the Original and Heavy Duty Stira as they both rest on the trapdoor and are no more than 15" above the ceiling height for the floor below. The StiraMatic however will require a 1 metre clearance above the hatch.

What about the distance between ceiling and floor above?

For the Original* and Heavy Duty Stira* this is not a concern as the Stira is completely contained within the frame of the Stira. This means even if the joists and floor are much higher than the frame of the Stira it will not effect the operation of the Stira. It may however make it difficult to get into the attic and we recommend you build a step into the floor of the attic.

*Customers in Ireland do not need to know any of these measurments to purchase a Stira. Irish customers can request a free consultation by one of our fitters, we have also built a database of housing estates around Ireland so if your neighbour has had a Stira fitted we may already know which Stira you require.