5 Causes Why Werner Telescoping Attic Ladder Won’t Close

It can be frustrating not to be able to close your Werner telescoping attic ladder. That’s why we’re going to discuss Werner’s telescoping attic ladders not closing.

So, why is your Werner telescoping attic ladder won’t close? 

There are five different reasons why the ladder won’t close. Obstacles blocking the ladder, faulty struts/springs, stuck hinges/locks, and an uneven frame can cause a ladder to not extend properly. To fix these issues, clear any obstructions, replace or lubricate faulty parts, and ensure the frame is square.

Before we assume there is an issue, let’s first make sure you are closing the Warner attic ladder properly.

Why Does Werner Telescoping Attic Ladder Won’t Close?

You can find five possible causes for why your Werner attic ladder won’t close. One of the most obvious problems is that the struts or the springs are not working. Other than that, there may be something obstructing the ladder, or the frame is not square.

A telescopic ladder is very similar to an extension ladder. So, some of these reasons may also be relevant to an extension ladder becoming stuck.

Reason One: Not Following the Correct Process

You need to make sure you are closing the Werner telescoping attic ladder properly and that it is not really stuck. 

To properly stow the ladder you need to- 

• Retract both right-side catches: C&D. 
• Stow the ladder by rotating both catch levers upward.
• Retract catch A and slide the front frame up until the catch engages.
• Retract catch B and slide the middle ladder frame upwards until the catch re-engages. 
• Make sure both right-hand catches, C and D, are fully engaged before releasing them. 
• The plastic stowing hook should be positioned over and at the center of the lower rung of the rear ladder section. 
• The ladder should be pushed vertically upward and fully into the attic hole.
• Close the door by turning the latch using the assist pole.

If there is nothing wrong with your process of closing the attic, there may be other issues. You need to properly check the ladder to inspect the problem.

Reason Two: Obstruction

Close the attic door and check for obstructions from the inside. Look for shims, cords, or anything that may be interfering with the ladder closing. 

Solution:

If you find anything that is preventing the ladder from closing, remove that object, and it should be fine.

Reason Three: Struts Are Not Working

A strut is a structural component that helps to support and stabilize a ladder. If the struts are damaged, they may no longer be able to properly support the ladder. This can cause the ladder to become unstable and unable to close.

If the struts are worn out or leaking, they will have to be replaced.

Solution:

Here is the full replacement process for the struts-

• Lower the ladder from the attic to the floor.
• Locate the gas struts on the ladder. They are typically located on the sides of the ladder frame, near the top of the ladder.
• Release the tension on the gas struts by pulling the release pin or knob on the strut.
• Remove the old struts by removing the fasteners that secure them to the ladder frame. It may be necessary to use a screwdriver for this purpose.
• Carefully remove the old struts from the ladder so that any other parts of the ladder are not damaged.
• To install new gas struts, attach them to the ladder frame using the included fasteners. 
• Make sure that the struts are properly aligned and that the release pins or knobs are facing the correct direction. Refer to the owner’s manual for the correct direction of the pins or knobs.
• Test the ladder by raising and lowering it a few times to ensure that the new struts are working properly.

If your ladder has spring-loaded pins instead of struts, the springs will need to be replaced too. The replacement process is quite similar, so it should not give you any trouble.

Reason Four: Hinges May Get Stuck

If the hinges on your ladder are worn out, they may get stuck, which will prevent the ladder from closing. You can visually examine them for wear and tear.

Solution:

• Inspect the hinge: Look for any visible signs of damage or wear on the hinge, such as rust, dents, or bent parts.

• Clean the hinge: Use a wire brush or sandpaper to remove any rust or debris that may be preventing the hinge from moving freely.

• Lubricate the hinge: Apply a lubricant, such as WD-40, to the hinge to help reduce friction and make it easier for the hinge to move. A small amount like a drop or two should suffice.

• Adjust the hinge: If the hinge is bent or twisted, try to adjust it back into its proper position. You may need to use a hammer or pliers to make small adjustments.

• Check the alignment: Make sure that the hinge is aligned correctly with the ladder frame and that it is not binding on any other parts of the ladder.

• Check for other problems: Make sure that the ladder is level and that there are no other issues that may be preventing the ladder from closing, such as a stuck release lever or damaged gas struts.

If the ladder is still not closing properly, you may need to replace the hinge.

Reason Four: The Lock May Get Stuck

Sometimes the rung lock can be stuck in the engaged position. This can prevent the ladder from extending or retracting. Look at the rung lock to see if it’s stuck.

Solution:

• Use a grinder to carefully smoothen the surface underneath the lock so that the lock slides back down. Be careful not to grind the surface too much, as this may cause the lock to not stay in place during use.
• Grind for some time and try to unlock it, if it doesn’t work keep grinding until it does.
• Apply lubricants such as WD 40 or petroleum jelly to the pivot part of the lock to make it smoother.
• If the lock is damaged beyond repair, replace it with a new one. Using a damaged lock on a ladder is a safety hazard.

Reason Five: Frame Not Square

If the frame is not properly squared, the ladder may close at an angle. Consequently, the ladder may not be able to close properly if it contacts the frame.

Using a ruler, measure the frame diagonally from corner to corner. If the measurements aren’t within 1/8″, then the frame isn’t square.

Solution:

• First, determine which corner needs to be adjusted.
• Insert shims between the framing members at the corner that needs to be adjusted.
• Shim until the diagonal measurements are equal, indicating that the frame is now square.
• Secure the shims in place with nails or screws.
• The opposite corner of the frame should also be squared following the same method, in case it was not.

If it’s not possible to make the frame square using shims, the hinged end of the ladder will need to be repositioned.

For that, you will have to remove the ladder and reinstall it with a square frame. Watch this video to learn how to properly install a Werner attic ladder.

How to Properly Maintain the Werner Telescoping Attic Ladder

To ensure the longevity and safety of your Werner telescoping attic ladder, it is important to follow the below measures.

• Regularly inspect the ladder for any visible signs of damage, such as dents, cracks, or bent parts.
• Clean the ladder regularly, removing any dirt, debris, or cobwebs that may have accumulated.
• Lubricate the moving parts of the ladder, such as the hinges and release levers, to ensure that they move smoothly and easily.
• Do not overload the ladder. Make sure the ladder can support the weight of the person using it and any tools or materials they may be carrying.
• Read the ladder’s instructions before you use it. This will help ensure that the ladder is being used properly and that you are aware of any safety precautions or warnings.
• If you notice any damage or wear and tear on your ladder, it’s best to contact the manufacturer for guidance or hire a professional to repair it.

Werner telescoping attic ladders are very good, but if you keep having problems with them, you can check out some premium telescoping ladders.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Can you lock an attic ladder?

Yes, it is possible to lock an attic ladder to prevent unauthorized access or to keep it in a closed position. Several types of attic ladders have locking mechanisms, including latches and bolts that can be locked with keys or padlocks. Others may require additional hardware, such as hasps and padlocks, to lock closed. 

Is Werner a good brand ladder?

Yes, Werner is a very good ladder brand that is worth the money. Some users may think they are overpriced, but they make up for it with quality. However, make sure you buy the original Werner product to get the most out of it.

Does wood or aluminum make a better attic ladder?

Wood attic ladders are typically more affordable and can blend in better with the surrounding architecture. Aluminum ladders are typically more durable and lightweight, making them easier to install and use. But aluminum ladders are also more expensive than wooden ones. 

Conclusion

To conclude, if a Werner telescoping attic ladder won’t close, it could be caused by a number of issues. For example, a stuck hinge, a lock that is stuck, damaged gas struts, or an incorrect frame size. 

When faced with such a problem, it is important to inspect the ladder for visible signs of damage and wear. Also, contact the manufacturer or hire a professional for repairs if necessary.