With over 50-years’ experience as a multi-trade professional working across both domestic and commercial projects, Mick Thompson has an expert’s eye when it comes to finding and using the best access equipment.
Throughout his career, Derbyshire-based Mick has fitted countless loft ladders. In this time, he has seen how new-build homes have become smaller, with space increasingly at a premium – necessitating changes to loft access requirements.
Recently, Mick was approached by a homeowner who was struggling to find a loft-ladder for their newbuild home.
“They’d not long moved in and wanted to use their loft for storage,” Mick explains. “But as is often the case with newer properties, the landing space was incredibly small, and the loft opening was tight. They needed a compact ladder—one that wouldn’t take up too much room when in use but would still be sturdy and easy to operate.”
For Mick, the challenge was finding a ladder that balanced practicality, durability, and space efficiency. Based on his experience, he recommended the Werner Stowaway® Timber Loft Access Kit—one of the most compact timber loft ladders available in the UK.
“I’ve used Werner ladders for years because of their reliability and build quality,” Mick says. “Their loft ladders, in particular, have evolved to meet the needs of modern homes, and the Stowaway Timber Loft Access Kit is a great example of that. At just 0.90m in length, it’s designed for homes where space is tight, but it still provides the stability and ease of use that homeowners need.”
Fitting the new ladder proved straightforward. “I removed the existing plastic loft hatch and swapped it out for the Stowaway Timber Loft Access Kit with ease. The spring-assisted mechanism made for smooth opening and closing, which is a big plus for homeowners who need regular loft access. The customer was delighted with how easily it folded way – without compromising on space.
Beyond space-saving benefits, Mick has also seen increasing demand for loft ladders that improve insulation. “A lot of people don’t realise how much heat can be lost through a poorly insulated loft hatch,” he explains. “The Stowaway Timber Loft Access Kit includes a 36mm insulated trapdoor and rubber draught excluders, which help keep heat in and reduce cold draughts. With energy bills rising, homeowners are thinking about this much more.”
For Mick, choosing the right loft ladder isn’t just about the product—it’s about ensuring a solution that integrates seamlessly into the home.
“A well-installed loft ladder should be safe, practical, and built to last,” he says. “And from a trade perspective, it’s always reassuring to fit something I know won’t cause issues down the line. That’s why I’ll be recommending the Werner Stowaway Timber Loft Access Kit again for my next loft installation.”
More about Werner’s Stowaway Timber Loft Access Kit
Sized at just 0.90m x 0.58m, the Werner Stowaway Timber Loft Access Kit is one of the most compact timber loft kits in the UK.
With a spring-assisted stowage mechanism for easy opening and closing, the Werner Stowaway Timber Loft Access Kit boasts a perfect solution for those seeking a secure access solution who have a small space, and possibly, a small loft hatch opening to work with. The Kit comes with everything required to get started including an integrated hatch door, pole, and fittings.
The Stowaway design is a new addition to Werner’s range of timber loft ladders, designed to provide users with safe and comfortable access to domestic loft spaces. The range also includes the updated Timberline and Eco S-Line designs, as well as the new ThermoPlus™, Easi-build® and FireguardPRO™.
To find our more, visit: https://www.wernerco.com/uk/loft-ladders/StowawaySeries