Attic Stairs Won't Close Completely
You may be starting completely from scratch when it comes to your pull down attic stairs.
Attic stairs won't close completely. You correct this by adjusting the springs with the door in the closed position. And once fully open the mechanism holds the ladder and hatch in place so it wont inadvertently close without warning. Taking down the whole unit may be necessary to repair those.
Most attic stairs will fit a ceiling height between 7 to 10 feet but you should double-check your ceiling height. They are at minimum tension with the stairs closed. Many attics feature a folding staircase or a stair that folds up to be concealed behind a ceiling panel.
Begin by checking to see if the attic stairs close tightly then apply self-adhesive foam weather stripping around the perimeter where the plywood door meets the frame except on the hinge end. After it is closed and still has the gap--carefully grab one or both springs and see if you can pull on them to close that extra inch. Look as it closes to see if anything is rubbing or binding.
Creating the opening and installing the attic door may take one to two hours. Or probably dontand fix it properly. Adjusting the springs is often.
There are however problems that could arise with attic stairs. Its likely that there is not enough allowance on the battens. If your frame is not square insert shims to square it.
From inside the attic check for obstructions when the door is closed-check shims installation cords to make sure nothing is interfering with the door shutting properly. Check the springs or struts of your ladder and make sure they are working correctly. Because of this a set of pull-down attic stairs is the best way to reach the attic.