Or a cottage there is no need to explain what an attic is. Often the layout internal space does not allow to equip stationary ladder to ascend to the named room. This circumstance is due to rare visits, theft of square footage and cluttering of the interior. Of course, many will say that they do a good job with a stepladder, but regular trips to get this device, as well as its unsteadiness, make many owners think about building a compact staircase structure. To solve this problem, you need to understand the variety of types of the named element and figure out how to make a staircase to the attic without resorting to the help of specialists and without spending a huge amount of money.

General rules for the construction of attic stairs

When arranging structures of this type, it is important to know a number of basic recommendations and advice from professionals, which will subsequently help to quickly and efficiently complete the assembly work, as well as ensure reliable operation over a significant period of operation. The main ones:

• staircase width no more than 65 cm;
• height no more than 3 m;
• optimal number of steps – up to 15 pcs.;
• the distance between steps is no more than 19 cm;
• step thickness from 2 to 2.2 cm;
• classic tilt angle from 60 to 75°;
• the design is made with a margin for greater weight;
• the position of the steps at the moment of opening must be strictly parallel to the floor;
• standard hatch dimensions are 120×60 or 120×70 cm.

Compliance with all of the listed requirements for arranging a staircase to the attic will allow the work to be completed with proper quality and emphasis on durability, and will also eliminate excessive heat loss during winter periods.

The optimal solution for arranging the structure under study, which allows taking into account all everyday aspects, is the manufacture of a folding staircase. This type can be built both externally and internally. The only thing fundamental difference The fact is that the latter option is more comfortable to use, since it eliminates the need to go outside, which makes itself felt acutely during the cold season. In addition to this, in internal version it is protected from external influences external factors and is a kind of gasket between the cold air flows of the attic and the adjacent room.

The assortments of modern stores offer many staircase options, but it is more advisable to highlight the most common types:

• scissor - is a ladder made of metal and, when folded, is a kind of accordion;
• folding (retractable) - includes several retractable sections, which, as they open, fold into a solid structure thanks to hinge mechanisms and hinges;
• telescopic - consists of several flights of stairs, which are stacked one on top of the other at the time of assembly (aluminum is usually used as the basis for such a design).

Making a folding staircase to the attic with your own hands is a simple undertaking and does not require deep knowledge in the field of construction, so you can cope with this task without much difficulty.

Before starting any activity, you should prepare tools and acquire materials. The set of tools does not require the presence of expensive equipment and includes a list of available tools familiar to every person:

• saw or jigsaw;
• drill or screwdriver with a set of bits;
• roulette;
• wood screws;
• anchors, corners and hanging hooks;
• one-piece staircase design with a reserve length of the side bases of 20–25 cm;
• 4–6 card type loops;
• timber with a thickness of 3–4 cm.

The diversity of this element allows the homeowner not to become too attached to traditional ways and choose the optimal type for yourself depending on the available square footage, interior and other important characteristics. However, with little construction experience, it is more advisable to independently make a staircase structure for the attic using simple accessible ways, which are represented by hinged and folding types.

Hinged view

This type of staircase can easily be made in 3–4 hours. To make it, it is enough to take two beams with a cross-section of 50×50 and a length of 70 to 100 cm. We attach one of the beams to the wall, directly under the equipped hatch using dowel-nails or self-tapping screws, and the second - on the lower points of the staircase supports. Next, measure 2/3 from the top edge of the prepared wooden staircase and make a cut. Then we fasten these components and the top with the upper support beam using loops. The structure is ready, all that remains is to install a hook in the wall where the lower section is folded so that the ladder is securely fixed to the wall.

A useful measure would be to strengthen the upper supporting partition with steel corners or anchors, since most of the load will fall on this element.

When arranging a folding staircase, you can choose as a base a classic wooden staircase, sawn into several components. To do this, you will need to take 2 bars with a length that provides passage into the attic hatch, and secure them to the upper and lower edges of the prepared structure, respectively, using loops and nails. Next, you need to measure 1/3 of the total length from top to bottom and make cuts. The components are also held together using card loops.

In order to avoid spontaneous opening of the resulting staircase, you should equip the block located on the upper edge of the structure with a hook.

Before fixing the hinge devices, additionally check that all components are correctly opened. It would be useful to install with reverse side ladders, a sheet of plywood, so that when closing the ladder is completely folded into the gap between the hatch and the general surface of the ceiling.

Photo of a folding wooden structure

The photographs show the sequence of manufacturing a folding ladder for the attic:

In conclusion, I would like to note that independent arrangement from time immemorial, auxiliary structures have been the subject of attention of most owners of private houses. Sticking to general rules construction and following the presented simple recommendations, you can easily create an excellent staircase to the attic without spending a lot of money on it.

Video

The provided video, consisting of two parts, describes in detail the manufacture of an attic ladder:

Photo

The photographs show various options attic stairs:

Scheme

If you decide to make a staircase yourself, then below is a number of diagrams that you can use as the basis for your design:

Many people want to live in a comfortable country house with an attic room or attic. When designing and constructing such housing, the question arises of a convenient and safe ascent to the second floor. Therefore, it is worth taking a closer look at the nuances of making attic stairs.

Peculiarities

Attic staircase necessary not only in a house with an attic, it will be required even if the attic is not used for housing - for access to the roof, repair work, laying communications. There are many types and designs of it, but the main thing is that it provides convenient descent and ascent and is safe.

One of the most simple options is an attic staircase located outside the house. It’s easy to make, but in cold weather it won’t be very comfortable to climb into the attic, and the attic opening facing the street will let in cold air, which will generally increase heat loss inside the residential building. Therefore, it is better to immediately choose the design of the stairs to the attic from the inside out.

The attic space can be used in different ways. It can serve as a full-fledged living room, a workshop, or a storage room. Depending on its purpose, you should choose the type of attic staircase. If access to the attic is required several times a season, then you can get by with a simple folding model made of wood or aluminum, and if there is a bedroom or children’s room on top, then you should definitely make a durable one convenient design with hatch and railings.

The task is to make a ladder for the attic with your own hands for experienced craftsman not too complicated, the main thing is to select its type, shape, location in advance and first create drawings with dimensions. The simplest folding options are made in one day, more complex models with railings and two spans can be built in 2–3 days. Most often, the entrance to the attic is made in the hallway, on the veranda, but it can be built in any other living space.

Kinds

All types of attic stairs can be divided into portable and stationary. Portable options are ordinary stepladders that are attached to the attic hatch and used for their intended purpose. Constantly going up and down them will not provide much comfort, especially for children or the elderly, and they are also unsafe. Their advantage is that they are easy to make, do not take up much space in the room, and if they are not in demand, they can simply be put away in any free space.

Portable ladders are most often used as temporary ones (during construction or repairs); in the future it is best to build a more reliable and convenient option.

The folding structure is usually made of aluminum as it is strong and lightweight. At the bottom there are support beams to provide stability, the width can reach 65 cm. The step pitch is usually 10–20 cm, there can be one or more sections. The longest is the 4-section model, but such a height is usually not required; for a floor height of 2.5–3 m, two sections are sufficient.

According to the mechanism of its disassembly, a folding attic ladder can be:

• retractable;
• scissor;
• lever;
• folding

The sliding attic ladder made of aluminum is good because it can easily be expanded to required length and is securely fixed, and when folded it takes up very little space; it can be leaned against a wall or placed in the attic. All such structures can be easily found in construction stores, so you don’t even have to do anything yourself.

Another option is to mount homemade ladder with a folding part. It can be mounted on a ceiling door or hatch, then easily folded back and unfolded. There can be 2–3 sections; when unfolded, it turns out rigid and stationary. Hardwood is used to install its frame and steps, and metal parts are used for fastening and folding mechanism. With proper design and careful work, such a design can be automatic, very convenient and completely safe.

Interesting option compact structures that are attached from the inside to the attic hatch - these are scissor ladders. They are most often made entirely of metal, and when the damper is opened in the attic, they are laid out like an accordion or a tram current collector. The frame is very light, easy to attach to wooden hatch using bolts. The disadvantage is that after some time of intensive use, the metal parts begin to creak. Therefore, we must not forget to lubricate them periodically.

A type of retractable ladder is the telescopic attic ladder. It consists of many aluminum tubes that are folded one into another. When folded, it takes up little space and is easily attached to the attic hatch. In order to unfold it, a special handle is provided. But such models are not particularly popular.

A very common option is monolithic stairs, that is, not folding or portable. Although such lifting structures take up more space, they are strong, do not require moving parts, and can last for decades. They can be made from high-quality wood, equipped with railings, and the space under the stairs can be used to maximum benefit.

Single-span monolithic staircase - the easiest to manufacture, but it may be too steep to be uncomfortable for regular use. The most convenient design may be one with two spans located perpendicular or parallel to each other. The only problem is that it will take up maximum space. To save space, many craftsmen build a spiral staircase in a small room.

Monolithic stairs to the attic or attic with one or two spans are made of wood, but there are also models with a metal frame and wooden steps. Most often they are done in a secluded, most unclaimed place in the room. A good solution would be to place them against the wall or in the corner of the room.

Materials

Attic stairs can be metal or wood. For sliding and folding structures It is better to use metal that will wear out less with constant friction of parts.

The most common choice is aluminum, which is lightweight, durable and does not corrode.

Staircase fittings include hinges, bolts, springs, which can be made of stainless steel.

A stationary and monolithic staircase to the attic is best made of wood. It is easy to process and fasten. Usually hardwoods are chosen: oak, beech, pine. The material must be well dried, treated with varnish and antiseptic. For the frame and steps, bars with a thickness of at least 2 cm are taken.

Accessories

When installing wooden monolithic staircase To fasten the parts you only need ordinary nails. For sliding or tilting ceiling options, more complex components will be required. To open the attic hatch you will need metal corners and strips, hinges, hinges, bolts or screws. The number of parts is selected depending on the length of the staircase and the number of sections.

Installation

As an example of making a convenient and safe staircase to the attic, you can consider the construction of a folding model of three sections, which folds up onto the ceiling hatch. It can be built independently in almost any country house with wooden ceilings with a height of up to 280 cm.

It is produced step by step in several stages.

• First you need to make an attic hatch. The ceiling opening can have any size, for example, 80x70 cm. The hatch itself must open easily and withstand the structure of the folded ladder. To make it, take 5x5 cm bars and 1 cm thick plywood. The bars, cut to the size of the opening, are connected using glue and self-tapping screws; the frame can be strengthened for rigidity metal corners. Then the plywood is nailed to it using thin nails.
• Next you need to install the hatch on ceiling using hinges so that it opens and closes easily and smoothly. At this stage, it is important to correctly select and install the hinge mechanism. There should be enough space in the attic for a hinged hatch. If the room under the roof is cold, then it is worth additionally insulating the attic hatch by placing some kind of insulation between layers of plywood and sheathing the edges rubber seal so that there are no gaps.

• After this, you need to make the staircase itself. For it, take a 2x10 cm board and cut out sections of the required length. The steps need to be fastened not at a right angle, but at an angle in accordance with the angle of inclination of the stairs themselves, that is, when unfolded, they should lie horizontally.
• Next, the sections are fastened together using metal hinges so that the entire structure can be easily moved apart and folded. Assembled staircase of three sections is attached to the hatch using metal corners.
• Next, you can attach a convenient handle, latches or locks to the attic door.

Another example of an attic staircase in a wooden house that you can make yourself is a stationary monolithic structure with one span. You should choose a place for it in the corner of the room, so that one side flight of stairs leaned against the wall. Since the climb will be quite steep, it is best to equip the stairs with wooden railings. For the frame and steps, inch boards with a width of 10 cm are selected.

The steps are cut to a width of 650 cm, the step between them should be 10–15 cm, the length will depend on the height of the ceiling. For the railing, you can take polished beams 5x5 cm. Installation takes place using anchors or screws. If necessary, a hatch is mounted on the attic opening, opening using hinges with hinges.

The advantages of this design are that it is easy to assemble and install, has a pleasant appearance, and can be easily dismantled during repairs.

It is not recommended to install a wooden staircase with one section longer than 3.5 m, since its rigidity suffers and the structure has a risk of collapsing. In a private house with high ceilings, it is better to use a monolithic option with 2-3 bays. If the floor height is large and there is little space, then there is a good option for a spiral staircase. But such structures are not very convenient; there is a high risk of falling.

The staircase to the attic from the street can also be made stationary, adjacent to the wall of a wooden house. But this option is only good for warm climates, or if it is not used regularly. Often such projects are used in houses with an attic for an additional entrance to the upper room. If the ability to build a durable and beautiful internal structure does not allow, and you need to use the attic regularly, then you can create the simplest temporary outdoor option.

For ease of use, the steps should have a pitch of no more than 20 cm, but they should not be spaced too often. Optimal height is 19.3 cm.

If they are made of wood, then their thickness should be 18–22 mm, otherwise the staircase runs the risk of collapsing. In a building up to 280 cm high, the number of steps of a single-flight staircase will be 14–15.

The optimal angle of inclination of a folding or single-span staircase is 60–75 degrees. If it is less, then the steepness of the climb is too great, and it becomes inconvenient and dangerous to use. If the slope is greater, the structure will take up a lot of space in the room. In general, it is calculated that for a comfortable rise, the total span length in such a model should be 35 cm greater than the height from floor to ceiling.

The calculation shows that optimal length The steps must be at least 65 cm, then you can move freely along it. But if space allows, you can increase this value. A folding or single-span wooden staircase must support a weight of 150 kg. The width of the steps should be at least 20 cm, then it will be comfortable to step on them.

It is possible to buy ready-made folding mechanisms for attic stairs. But at the same time, you need to correctly take into account their dimensions so that when folded they fit into the ceiling opening, are securely attached to the hatch, and when unfolded they are exactly the height of the room.

If you decide to do such a climb to the attic completely yourself, then it’s worth creating detailed drawing with dimensions, calculation of possible load, make an estimate, including building materials for the frame, steps and railings, fittings and fasteners, insulation for the hatch.

Unlike railings, it is better not to make steps from smooth, polished wood. In this case, the surface will be very slippery and there is a high risk of falling, especially with a large steepness or a screw version. If the wood is still too smooth, then it is best to provide the steps with anti-slip stickers.

Successful examples and options

The scissor ladder to the attic is easy to install and relatively cheap. But it is not so comfortable when lifting, and the view is not very attractive.

A folding wooden ladder attached to the hatch looks beautiful. As you can see, the mechanism is equipped with a special handle, so no stepladders or stools are required.

Nice option monolithic design You can make and assemble them yourself from wood with original steps.

In most cases, the attic is used quite rarely. For this reason, installing a massive stationary staircase is far from perfect option. A more practical solution is a folding ladder to the attic, not big sizes which allows you to save as much free space as possible.

Compared to stationary models, folding attic stairs have the following advantages:

Among the disadvantages it is worth highlighting the following points:

• Difficult to manufacture. Some models are quite difficult to make with your own hands. This will require complex and precise calculations, tools, and appropriate skills.
• Lack of sufficient comfort during use. It is not very convenient to go up or down stairs with a large angle of inclination, and lifting massive objects along such structures is not the most reasonable option.
• Low load capacity. Most models cannot support weights exceeding 150 kg.

Types of folding stairs

All folding lofts and attic structures can be divided into several types:

• scissor;
• telescopic;
• sectional;
• folding

Scissor models

Folding scissor-type products are also called “accordion ladders.” This name perfectly describes its essence: when folded, the product resembles a small block, and when unfolded, it unfolds like the bellows of an accordion. To straighten such a ladder, you should pull the bottom step.

The scissor model consists of many small sections fastened together. Therefore, the dimensions of the structure when folded are minimal. Perhaps the only drawback of this variety is that it is not very reliable fastenings between blocks. Therefore, you should handle the scissor ladder carefully and remember to lubricate the mechanisms between the segments. Working principle of electric scissor ladder

Telescopic varieties

A characteristic feature of this model is the retractable type of sections, like a nesting doll. That is, the smallest tubes are fixed into larger diameter pipes, which are inserted into even larger side pipes, etc. The sections are held in the folded state by special clamps, which are located with outside metal beams. To fold the structure, just loosen the “grip” of the latch.

However, despite the fairly simple device, such models are rare. The reason for the low popularity is problems with fasteners. After a short use, the metal clamps begin to “jam”, which prevents the structure from straightening.

Sectional stairs

The sectional folding model resembles the scissor type, only here the segments are not pressed together, but folded on top of each other. Accordingly, when unfolding, the parts are straightened and fixed in a certain position.

The advantage of such a staircase is its low cost. As disadvantages, it is worth mentioning the rather large size and massiveness of the structure.

Folding products

Most unusual option- This is a folding ladder. This model has a couple of interesting features:

Since the design is similar to straight marching varieties, the angle of inclination folding ladder about 45 degrees, which promotes maximum convenient use. As negative points worth highlighting:

• high requirements for free space;
• “specific” design (when folded, the folding ladder does not look very nice, since it is not hidden and is always in plain sight);
• massiveness of the structure.

Material used

Material plays an important role for folding stairs. On the one hand, it must be durable, on the other, it must have a minimum cost. Only two materials fully meet these requirements – wood and metal.

Wood products are mainly made from coniferous species wood, such as pine. Such models have good reliability and low price. In addition, creating wooden stairs does not require specific skills or complex equipment. The following points should be highlighted as disadvantages:

• massiveness of the product;
• rather low load capacity (maximum weight – 100 kg);
• short service life.

Much more common are metal stairs made of aluminum and steel, which are in no way inferior to their wooden counterparts. In particular, the advantages of such products include:

• reasonable cost;
• good load capacity (up to 200 kg, depending on the type of structure);
• high resistance to rust and mechanical stress;
• durability;
• low weight (for aluminum);
• high strength.

The only drawback metal varieties– this is the complexity self-made. The work will require welding knowledge and appropriate equipment.

Important points

Any staircase, regardless of its type, should be as convenient as possible for use. Therefore, when selecting or designing a product, it is recommended to consider the following parameters:

• the optimal span width is 60-70 cm (excluding load-bearing beams);
• the recommended tilt angle of the structure is 45-60 degrees, the maximum is 75 degrees;
• average number of steps – 15 pcs.;
• step thickness – 2 cm (± 2 mm);
• “step” of steps – 17-22 cm (steps should be located at an equidistant distance from each other throughout the entire flight of stairs);
• if stairs are used frequently, the width of the tread (horizontal part of the step) should be at least 20 cm;

You should also pay attention to other important points:

• attic stairs should not be higher than 3 m, otherwise the risk of injury increases significantly;
• It is recommended to install anti-slip pads on metal steps;
• wooden models should not be installed in too dry or damp rooms (service life is reduced);
• fastenings and mechanisms must reliably connect sections of the product;
• It is recommended to lubricate the construction mechanisms from time to time.

Making a folding ladder with your own hands

The process of creating a staircase structure is not particularly complicated. But for greater convenience, it should be divided into 2 stages:

• preparation for work;
• making stairs.

Preparatory stage

The production of a staircase begins with design - taking measurements and creating a drawing. It is recommended to perform the diagram in three projections: front, top and side views.

Important! In this case, the structure in the drawing should be shown in a “straightened” state.

The drawing must also meet the following requirements:

• on the projection from above you should draw a floor plan on which to mark the location of the stairs;
• for greater clarity, it is recommended to indicate the dimensions of elements in separate footnotes;
• metal parts are displayed with diagonal lines, wooden parts - with curls (imitation of wooden “rings”).

After preparing the drawing, they purchase necessary materials. When everything is ready, it’s worth preparing the tools. So, to work you will need:

• electric or hand saw;
• drill;
• drills of various diameters;
• wood screws.

For the manufacture of metal stairs The following tools are needed:

• welding machine;
• hacksaw for metal;
• drill with metal drills;
• fastening elements.

In order for the structure to fold, you need to purchase metal card loops.

Execution of work

The manufacturing and installation process itself is quite simple. For example, a two-section folding attic ladder is made as follows:

1. load-bearing beams are divided into 2 parts (and lengths) and connected using metal loops;
2. grooves for steps are made in each supporting beam;
3. steps are inserted into the holes made;
4. Rubber pads are put on the bottom of the supporting beams;
5. a wooden block is attached to the wall under the opening to the attic;
6. the upper part () of the structure is connected to the block using hinges;
7. the lower part () is pressed against the wall and attached to a hook.

Making a folding ladder

The procedure for making a folding ladder folding type completely different:

1. the first string is firmly fixed to the wall at the required angle;
2. the first step is marked on it (12 cm wide);
3. 2 lines are drawn parallel to the edges of the supporting beam;
4. a line perpendicular to the end of the first segment is marked;
5. from the perpendicular mark, an indentation is made to the right by 1 cm and a vertical line is drawn;
6. the markings made mark the beginning of the second step (the following steps are marked in the same way);
7. the marking is transferred to the second string;
8. with the help of hinges, the steps are attached to the supporting beams (on a stationary string they should rise, on a movable string they should fall down);
9. A loop is attached to the movable bowstring and a hook is installed for it in the appropriate place on the wall.

Example of a folding ladder to the attic

Folding stairs for the attic are becoming increasingly popular in the CIS countries. This is facilitated by low cost, ease of installation and, most importantly, compactness of the products. However, it is worth considering that in comparison with conventional designs, using folding stairs is less convenient.

A folding attic ladder is a convenient option that does not take up much space.

It is not difficult to make such a staircase on your own.

To do this, you don’t have to have special talents, you don’t need to be a professional carpenter, but you just need to have a few materials, free time and, of course, a little patience.

Which staircase is better?

The attic can be a place filled with old junk and make a great Halloween decoration.

You can equip a creative workshop or an office for work in the attic, you can equip a cozy children's room there.

But no matter what for different purposes The attic space would not serve any purpose, no matter how it was equipped - all attics in the world are united by one fact: it is impossible to get there without a ladder. Of course, if the owner of the attic is not a superhero.

So which ladder should you choose to climb up to the attic? Is it possible to make it yourself? The answer to the second question is simpler: anything can be done with human hands! The first question will have to be dealt with in more detail.

The type of staircase should be chosen depending on the purpose of the attic and the availability of free space below.

All types of stairs can be divided into three types:

• attached;
• permanent;
• folding structures.

The simplest option is, of course, ladder. This type includes both ordinary wooden poles and metal stepladders.

Advantages of an extension ladder:

• light;
• does not take up space;
• You can use one ladder to climb in different places.

On the farm, this option is undoubtedly irreplaceable. Using a stepladder, you can change light bulbs, trim trees on your property, repair the roof, etc.

However, using it to climb into the attic is only convenient if you plan to use the attic from time to time.

This is an ideal option if old things will be stored in the attic, i.e. they will go up there a couple of times a year.

If the attic is planned to be converted into a useful, functional room that will be used frequently, then the method of climbing there must be appropriate.

A stationary staircase is an ideal option.

This option has many advantages:

• stable;
• reliable;
• it is easy to climb along it for both a child and an elderly person;
• it is easy to decorate it in the style of the room;
• can be supplemented with railings;
• The space under the flights can be used functionally, for example, to arrange a storage room there.

This is the only acceptable option if the attic is to be converted into a children's room. Metal ones also look very impressive. spiral staircases with forged railings.

But all the advantages of this staircase are negated by one big disadvantage - it takes up a lot of space. What should those who have space not allow for a stationary staircase do?

Do you really have to give up the idea of ​​converting the attic space?

For those who want reliable and safe stairs, but don't have free space for its design, there is a third option - a folding design.

This option is slightly inferior in safety to the stationary one, but after use the ladder will be removed and will not take up space. In addition, it is easy to do it yourself, taking into account all the individual nuances.

Folding structures

There are many options for folding stairs.

The following designs belong to this type:

• hanging;
• retractable upstairs.

Both options are easy to make yourself. The difference is that the ladder can be folded and stored in the attic hatch or folded and hung on the wall.

Suspension option will do only if the hatch is located directly against the wall. Moreover, hanging on the wall near the ceiling, albeit folded wooden structure, will not fit into any interior.

Therefore, the best option is a ladder that will go into the attic. Depending on the size of the hatch, it can consist of two, three or even four sections.

Taking measurements and drawing drawings is the first step in making a staircase with your own hands.

There are a number of rules that, if possible, must be followed to make the design comfortable and safe:

• the width of the stairs should be no narrower than 60 cm;
• when unfolded, the tilt angle must be at least 30°;
• the depth of the step must be at least 10 cm so that the person climbing feels confident;
• the distance between steps should not exceed 30 cm (preferably less);
• if the attic hatch is higher than 2.2 meters, then it must be equipped with a leash for easy opening;
• if the room height is 4 m or more, it is better to choose stationary option, since under the weight of a person the structure can “play”, which will significantly reduce its safety.

First of all, you need to decide on the size and location of the future hatch. The longer it is, the fewer sections you will need to divide the staircase into.

For example, with a door length of 90 cm and a staircase length of 240 cm, three sections are obtained: 240: (90-10) = 3.

It is better if the hatch is made of solid wood. In this case, it will be heavier than from plywood or other materials, but the fastenings in the wood will “sit” much better.

The hatch must be secured to the ceiling using reliable door canopies with a fixed opening.

Such canopies are fixed with your own hands in the position required for opening using special pins.

When the hatch is opened further, it will open only as much as the installed studs allow.

You should not use any other fastenings (for example, window awnings).

It must be remembered that the weight of the hatch itself, the ladder and the person climbing it will fall on the canopies. Therefore, it is worth ensuring proper design reliability.

In addition, you need to install a lock and, if the height of the hatch is unattainable from human height, a leash.

The lock on the ceiling side can be used for both interior door, equipped with an automatic latch. A latch type latch is suitable for the attic side.

A cable or lever can be used as a leash. The cable, passing through the roller device on the attic side of the door, activates the lock mechanism.

However, a rope hanging from the ceiling will not fit into every interior, so more a good decision is the lever.

The lever is a plastic or metal rod (for easy storage it can be telescopic) with a recess the desired shape at the top end.

This method is suitable when used in manhole cover mortise lock with your own hands, from which you need to remove the turntable.

A pinwheel is a plastic attachment on a non-removable key. It is used to make it easier to open the lock from the inside.

Under the turntable there will be a square or semicircular metal rod on which the lever should be placed.

The hole in the lever should fit as tightly as possible to the lock rod, in this case the lock will open easily.

If you have the financial means, you can install an automatic lock with a remote control on the hatch.

Making stairs

After the attic door is made, you can begin making your own stairs.

To do this you will need the following materials and tools:

• two beams, length equal to length future stairs, at least 12 cm wide and 3 cm thick;
• board for steps at least 10 cm wide, 2 cm thick. The total length of the board is equal to the length of the steps multiplied by their number;
• corners or bolts for fastening steps (4 for each step);
• fastenings for fixing the upper section of the ladder on the hatch cover;
• hinges, two for the number of section connections (4 sections = 3 connections);
• drill;
• screwdriver;
• wood hacksaw;
• long metal ruler or tape measure;
• protractor or malka.

After everything is prepared for work, the primary task is to mark and secure the steps.

It should be remembered that the stairs will be at an angle, and the steps must be parallel to the floor. They must be marked at an angle of 30°.

After the first step is secured, you should install the ladder and make sure that the steps are positioned correctly.

When the staircase is ready, it should be cut into the required number of sections. The cuts should be located at the same distance from the steps. The sections are fastened together using metal hinges or hinges.

When the ladder is assembled, it top part it is necessary to secure it tightly to the attic door, retreating 5 cm from the top edge.

After this, you should check the load-carrying capacity of the ladder and its connections. You cannot test the ladder with your own weight by climbing on it!

To soften the harshness of the opening, you can use rubber belts or metal springs, securing one end to the bottom of the hatch cover and the other to the attic floor.

The staircase was made by hand, and not much time and effort was spent on its production.

But for greater safety and reliability, you should do something else:

• lubricate all moving metal parts (hinges, hinges);
• sand all wooden surfaces with emery cloth or a sander;
• If desired, the structure can be painted acrylic paint or varnish.

In this case, this structure will last a long time, will not leave splinters after climbing it, will not tear clothes and will not creak.

Such a device, made with your own hands, will become the real pride of the owner. Happy renovation!

Many owners of private houses, in order to get into the attic, use an extension or stationary staircase installed on the street. Of course, for safety reasons, such a ladder is completely justified and will never become superfluous. However, for use in winter period, and especially in cases where there is a utility room or even a full-fledged living space in the attic, it will be much more convenient to provide the possibility of entry directly from the house.

But it often happens that stationary design the internal staircase requires a very significant area, and therefore cannot be implemented in practice in conditions small house. And even if there is enough space, it hardly makes sense to “waste” it if the attic is not used constantly, but only from time to time. What to do? But there is a way out - this is a “transformer” structure, which is removed when not needed into the attic floor. So, the topic of this publication: do-it-yourself folding staircase to the attic - most optimal option for both large and small private houses.

General information about folding stairs to the attic

What do they say about the advantages and disadvantages of such structures?

Folding ladders, if their design is thought out, are safe and easy to use, are very convenient. However, they also have their own disadvantages, which you also need to know in advance when starting similar reconstruction of one of the rooms of the house.

So to advantages of folding staircase design include the following points that will greatly facilitate the operation of the attic space:

• Ability to safely enter the attic at any time, regardless of the season or current weather conditions.
• The compactness and ease of use of a high-quality design allows all residents of the house to cope with unfolding and folding the stairs, since no great physical effort is expected.
• The folded structure does not take up usable area both in the living room and in the attic. If there is no need, the ladder is most often retracted into the opening of the attic floor, saving free space.
• The hatch in the ceiling, which is necessary to accommodate the staircase structure, with high-quality finishing from below does not spoil at all appearance ceiling surface.
• When purchasing a ready-made structure, it is quite possible to choose a model with an electric drive. This is, of course, extremely convenient, since if necessary, you won’t have to make any effort to put the ladder into working condition or remove it. However, to install this staircase option, you will have to invite a specialist. And such kits cost quite a lot.

The disadvantages of installing this structure in the attic floor include the following:

• Be that as it may, folding stairs, unlike, do not always meet the criteria for maximum convenience in terms of the steepness of the climb, the number and size of steps.
• Based on the first point, the second suggests itself - ascent and descent along such staircase structures still requires care and special precautions. This will be especially true for children, older people or those with some physical limitations.
• No matter how tightly the hatch fits into the opening cut out for the stairs, it will still deprive the ceiling of its tightness. Therefore, in order to prevent getting into living rooms cold air from above (or, conversely, hot air - during summer heat), the attic room will have to be insulated. This, of course, leads to additional costs. True, we can look at this problem from a different angle. If it is planned to arrange a utility or residential space in the attic, then, one way or another, it is necessary to carry out thermal insulation work on the roof slopes and install flooring with

Criteria that a folding ladder must meet

In order for a ladder to be used for a long time and be safe for its owners, it must meet certain criteria, regardless of its design and material of manufacture.

Prices for folding stairs

folding ladder

These product qualities include:

• The strength of the manufacturing material, all fasteners and connecting nodes.
• Lightweight design in terms of weight. This is important not only for the ease of use of the ladder, but also to ensure that when folded it does not put excessive additional load on the attic floor.
• Ease of operation - any adult family member should be able to handle the process of putting the ladder into combat readiness and folding it.
• Hinged or other components and devices that fold the ladder should function easily, without even minimal difficulties.
• If the staircase will be used constantly, due to the fact that a frequently used room is supposed to be located in the attic, then it is better to make the product yourself or order it good master to be confident in its reliability, and therefore in your personal safety.

Why is it better to make the stairs yourself?

Today on construction market a considerable number of models are presented different manufacturers. They are, as a rule, quite convenient to use, but if they are not used very intensively. If the ladder will be unfolded and folded several times a day, then a more durable mechanism will be required, since the offered products may not withstand such intensive use due to the fact that each of them is designed for a certain “motor resource”.

Ready-made stairs are almost always available small angle slope relative to the vertical. That is, the manufacturer makes them too steep, so it’s inconvenient to climb up and down them, especially while holding a certain load in one hand and securing yourself with the other. The reasons, as you can see, are very significant, and that is why many home owners prefer not to buy ready-made kits, but to install them themselves according to their own drawings, calculating them for their own weight and equipping them with durable mechanisms.

Main types of folding stairs to the attic

Before purchasing or making a folding ladder, you need to decide on its design, since there are several of them. So, the following types of stairs have been developed and manufactured on an industrial scale and independently: retractable, folding spring, telescopic, folding with a simplified design, simple folding compact stairs.

Retractable or sliding ladder

The retractable staircase structure can consist of two or three sections, depending on the height of the attic floor.

• First option

The upper section of the structure is fixed using a metal flange to a transverse board that forms the box of the opening being installed in attic floor. Each section, when folding the ladder, slides into the part located above, as if on a rail. The assembled sections of the stairs are transferred to a horizontal position and laid on the floors of the attic. The hatch in this design can be attached to the highest and shortest section, and in this case, when the hatch is closed, the entire staircase will be hidden. The hatch can also be closed separately, that is, first a ladder is sent to the attic, and then the hatch is closed.

1 - Attic floor beam.

2 - Screw flange.

3 - Retractable ladder sections.

4 - Rotary mechanism.

This illustration shows the working principle retractable ladder. However, it is quite obvious that it can only be suitable if the attic is not used as a living space and is visited quite rarely, and not constantly.

• Second option

Another option sliding stairs, consisting of two sections - a short one, attached to the hatch cover, and a long one, which, after unfolding, will rest against the floor surface of the room.. This option is also suitable for an attic used as utility room. So, if you need to get into the attic, the hatch opens, and the ladder goes down with it. Then, its lower part is pulled out from the folded structure until it touches the floor.

When unfolding the ladder, space for access to the attic is freed up. In ready-made, factory-made versions of sliding or folding stairs, the hatch is equipped with its own thermal insulation. And along the contour of the opening, a seal is installed so that warm air from the room does not escape through the gaps around the ceiling hatch. One should not forget about similar methods of minimizing heat losses when making a staircase yourself.

Folding ladder

A folding staircase differs from a sliding staircase in that its sections do not slide into each other, but fold together. This is ensured by special hinge mechanisms installed in the span connection points. The structure is folded according to the accordion principle. Top section fixed on the hatch panel, onhim Folding handrails are also installed, which make it easier to climb to the top floor or attic.

The advantage of this design is that it does not take up more space than the opening in the ceiling, since it is completely hidden in a special box, which frames the opening hatch. Therefore, when going up to the attic, the ladder can be raised so that it is not in the way on the lower floor, and in order to avoid accidentally stepping on the hatch while at the top, you can provide an upper strong hatch or a fencing for the opening.

Prices for stairs

ladder

The diagram above shows finished design, one of those offered in specialty stores. However, focusing on it, it is quite possible to make a ladder yourself. How to do this will be discussed in detail in the instruction table below.

The diagram shows a box framing the opening. It is equipped with elastic rubber gasket, thanks to which the hatch will be pressed tightly, without gaps, to the inner walls of the box.

The hatch of the design shown is made of chipboard, but when making a similar ladder yourself, it is quite possible to replace it with boards and assemble a shield from them. For this purpose, it is recommended to choose light, porous wood, such as linden or pine.

The wooden steps are equipped with an anti-slip coating. When making your own stairs, you can use a router to cut out recesses on the steps, in the form of two or three grooves running along the entire length of their surface.

The steps are fixed in the side posts of the staircase sections using the connection " dovetail", which is more reliable than straight spikes.

Metal scissor ladders

Another option for a folding structure is the so-called scissor ladder, which is made of metal. As a rule, aluminum is used for this purpose due to its light weight. The design has proven itself quite well, especially for those cases where the attic has to be visited quite often.

The advantages of this type of stairs include its versatility. This means that the modules that form the steps can be stretched “to their fullest” if the room high ceiling, or compressed to a certain level, of course. The main thing is that the bottom step rests on the floor. Thus, the staircase is designed for a certain, and quite considerable, range of ceiling heights.

When folded, such a staircase is quite compact and does not extend beyond the boundaries of the box intended for it, installed in the thickness of the attic floor.

The disadvantage of this scissor design is that it requires some effort to install and fold it. This may pose a problem for some home occupants who do not have the required physical capabilities.

It is quite difficult to make such a staircase yourself, as precise adjustment is required metal parts, and the design itself is replete with hinged joints. Yes, this is not profitable, since the material for self-production will probably cost no less than the cost of the finished product.