Good question, but not easy to answer, there are plus
and minus points for both. It is probably easier to simply list the
the various points.
Metal Electric concertina loft ladder
- When closed everything folds up on top of the hatch door so it takes up less loft space
- Lightweight, so puts less stress on the motor and operating system.
- Cost far less than the wooden models.
- Number and angle of treads can be adjusted on site making it more adaptable.
- Capable of smaller aperture openings than the bulky wooden models
- Likely to make more noise when in operation
- Wood usually has a more solid feel
Wood sliding or folding ladder.
- Feels more solid to use
- Can be made in larger sizes with wider more comfortable steps
- Should be quieter in operation
- Far more expensive
- Much heavier therefore requires a larger more expensive operating system
- When closed it extends beyond the hatch so requires more loft space
- Needs to manufactured to a specific height and cannot be altered on site
In most cases the real important point is the cost at
2012 prices a metal concertina electric loft ladder will cost around
£ 2000.00. Where as a sliding or folding wood electric loft ladder
is likely cost around £ 5000.00
The Electric loft ladder Doctor