Help filling a gap when installing attic stairs?

Question

I am attempting to install a set of "pull-down" stairs to access the attic in the garage.   The stairs come preassembled as a unit and fit into an opening between the ceiling joists.  

The joists are 24" on center, leaving me with approximately a 22 3/4" gap.   Unfortunately, the width of the pre-packaged ladder assembly is about 1 1/8" narrower than that.

The difference is too large to shim, so what would be the best way to narrow the gap?  

Thanks in advance for any assistance!

? · Accepted Answer

i put the assembly through the hole and into the attic. then i screw a board on each end of the opening to the garage ceiling with enough of the board inside the opening so i can set the stairwell unit down in the opening [i am now in the attic with the unit] i screw the unit flush to one side and one end. [the landing end] then shim the other sides with 1 by 4 or whatever you need. i then trim out the unit with a 1 by 4 against the garage ceiling. you can shim both sides if you like but its more time and trouble. you know you have to put two 2 by 4's in between the rafters and build a box? if you build it correctly you wont have to shim the other end. sorry for the rambling, just thought this info might help out. good luck

ProjectPerv · Answer

CHEAPEST way is go to home center and get some thin scrap wood. Either it be 1x2, 2x2 whatever.
Borrow a table saw threw a friend or a neighbor if you can.

Help filling a gap when installing attic stairs?

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