On 25 Nov, 15:24, Sam wrote:
Hi,

I would like to replace our loft hatch. I know you can get some ready
assembled plastic ones but I'm not sure about locking them. They seem
to have a plastic latch that you turn through 90 degrees to lock the
door closed. The problem is: how do you reach it to turn it when it's
eight foot high?

I wondered about making my own from wood as the existing one is rather
tatty. At the moment it is a push-up type and I'd like to replace it
with one on hinges to lower down, with a retractable ladder.

Do I use mdf or do I get "real wood" in tongue and groove form and
join that to make a hatch?

I suppose the only problem with sliding the ladder up after use is
that it will squash the insulation.

Is there anything else I need to think about before I start?

TIA.

Not to go against the thread, I recently fitted:

http://www.screwfix.com/prods/79577/...oft-Door-White

Easy to fit as I had to resize an existing hatch and get the ceiling
skimmed afterwards. I would agree its not the most robust
construction, but its only a loft hatch. The door comes of easily for
extra access. Very well draught insulated and a piece of polystyrene
on the back, locks securely with the end of the pole used for the
ladder.

Hope that helps