Sliding staircase to the attic. How to make a folding or retractable staircase to the attic with your own hands. What to consider when designing

What is an attic? It is known that in our area the attic can become anything - a warehouse, a workshop or a living room.

It all depends on the capabilities of the room and your imagination, but one thing is certain - the attic space needs to be used. How to equip the entrance to the attic with your own hands?

Arrangement of the entrance to the attic

If you intend to equip functional room in the attic you need to think about choosing a place for the attic ladder. The attic staircase requires the presence of a hatch - a ceiling door.

It is most reasonable to equip a hatch with a ladder in the corridor, hallway or passage room. In many houses there are rooms that are not used as living rooms, where you can easily install a staircase to the attic.

In the old days, the entrance to the attic was arranged from the outside, but the prospect of climbing into such an attic on a frosty or rainy day would not please anyone.

The most extreme loft lifting mechanism would be several stools stacked together. But speaking in detail, to get there in a civilized manner you need a good attic ladder. She may be both stationary and folding, the latter are in great demand.

Folding options are compactly stacked on top after use, saving a lot of usable space. A beautifully decorated hatch can become a fresh element of the interior.

Manufacturers offer wooden options for small loads (up to 150 kg) and metal for more serious loads. Prices for such stairs vary from 7,000 rubles to the limit of the consumer's wallet. When choosing the cheapest option, you shouldn’t count on its quality, so isn’t it better to make a folding attic ladder with your own hands?

Let's look at some possible options for homemade stairs, the simplest for a beginner and more difficult for those who are confident in their abilities. At your service is a description of materials, work and drawings of the proposed stairs.

A simple two-piece DIY staircase

This is the staircase that consists of two sections, one of which folds up. IN assembled version the staircase is not hidden at the top, but remains in plain sight.

This may not be critical if the attic is in a workroom, garage, etc. Even in a hallway it may look quite appropriate, it all depends on the style of your home.

This staircase can be made in a few hours, you just need to prepare the necessary materials:

Wood saw.
Measuring instruments(roulette).
Ordinary wooden staircase.
Card loops, the width of which is equal to the width of the stringer - 4 pcs.
Four bars 2–3 cm thick: two as long as the width of the hatch and two 20 cm longer.
Self-tapping screws, anchors, loop and hook.

Kosour is load-bearing beam stairs on which steps are laid.

There is no need to tell anyone how to make a ladder, but we will only note that its length should be approximately 30 cm greater than the distance from the floor to the hatch.

We take short bars:

We connect the first block to the upper end of the stairs using loops.
We securely fasten the second block to the bottom using a rigid method.

To make the structure more reliable, you need to take two slats and nail them with reverse side march obliquely. Just try to do this in such a way that the design did not interfere with movement on the stairs.

Measure exactly 2/3 of the entire length of the ladder from the bottom and cut it in this place. Next, connect these parts with card loops. The hinges are attached to the back of the ladder so that it can fold properly.

Secure the top bar directly under the hatch. The hook and loop is needed to ensure that the ladder does not open randomly. The hook is attached to the wall, and the loop is on the bottom bar.

The first attic ladder is simple, but it has the disadvantage of visible stairs. There are other models shown in the photo - these are retractable, folding and telescopic.

Attic staircase designs

DIY folding ladder on hinges

This is a folding attic ladder with a hatch, consisting of three sections, as well as an attic hatch. This option is very attractive for literally any room.

You will need to determine what the opening for the hatch will be, taking into account wishes and dimensions prospective visitors to the attic. For example, the opening for the stairs will be 125 x 70 cm.

In order to cut the hatch correctly, you need to add 7 mm on each side. Hatches for stairs to the attic should close well without compromising the thermal insulation.

Necessary materials:

bars 5 x 5 cm – 2 short and 2 long;
plywood 1 cm thick according to the size of the hatch.

At the ends of each block you need to make a cut to half the thickness, connecting glue and screws into a perfect rectangle. Using the means at hand, to prevent the diagonal from moving out, you can attach temporary triangles from thin plywood. Then we screw a sheet of plywood to the size of the rectangle.

Instead of locks we use door latch, any door handle or a cylinder of suitable shape. The latch holds the hatch closed well and opens easily. To conveniently open the hatch without using stepladders and stools, this handle needs to be specially made. You need to insert a long cylindrical handle into a special hole to open the hatch while standing on the floor.

Making hinges for opening the hatch

All components for the hatch opening mechanism can be purchased ready-made, or you can also make it yourself.

In order to do everything yourself, you need estimate dimensions and angles using a cardboard mockup. We make parts from cardboard; you can practice on them with the length of the hinges so that the hatch can open to the required angle. Based on the resulting model, we make a mechanism for opening the hatch.

The main thing is through experience determine the length of the hinges, since this type of attic ladder involves a hinged method. In the drawings you can see how the hinge is installed; the logic of its operation is very simple - it helps to smoothly open and close the hatch.

Necessary materials that can be found in every garage:

Metal corner – 2 pcs.
Sheet metal.
Metal strips 2 cm wide – 4 pcs.

We take two narrow metal strips and use a drill to make holes for an M10 bolt. We assemble the parts together in pairs, slightly pulling them together. Using the measuring carpenter's tool Malka, measure the opening angle of the hatch and we move our mechanisms exactly to this angle.

Using a jigsaw, cut out the part of the metal that will overlap with the corner. We remove the excess length of the metal strips and round the ends. After processing and removing excess metal, we assemble the mechanism - now the corner will lock in a certain position. Both mechanisms for two sides exact copies each other, but only mirrored.

Attic ladder fixation mechanism

The hinge mechanism is reliable, stopping the hatch with the ladder in the desired position thanks to the angle.

But for more reliability and smoothness To open the opening mechanism, you need to add another simple mechanism, similar to a hand.

For the “hand” you will need:

Long strips of metal, 2 cm wide – 4 pcs.
Corner - 2 pcs.

At the end of one of the strips you need to weld metal part, on which this strip will rest, and the corner will play role support element . We make simple hinges that, when the hatch is open, will maintain the bending angle, while supporting part of the weight of the structure.

In order for the load to be distributed evenly between two different hinges, this unit must be secured correctly. Yes, him needs to be fixed with the first hinges fully deployed.

Installation of attic stairs

All that remains is to make the attic ladder itself; it should be 35 cm longer than the distance from the floor to the hatch.

The folding ladder will consist of three sections, the length of which it is important to calculate correctly. The first section is equal to the size of the hatch, the second section is slightly shorter than the first (it should not touch the ceiling when unfolded). The third section is equal to the remaining segment.

Materials for the stairs:

Inch board 10 cm wide.

Hatch angle open position, which we previously measured with a small spoon, we transfer it to the board. That's how we mark the slope for the steps.

Let's start marking the string boards for the steps along the lengths of the sections according to the order described above. The boards must be pressed tightly, secured with masking tape and marked equally, making the slopes of the steps in a mirror image.

The sections will be fastened again with hinges, so you need drill a hole for the hinge bolt on each section using a 25-point pen. Using a router we give all the edges a finished, neat look. We cut the boards exactly according to the sectional markings.

Need steps cut to width and sand, like bowstrings. At the places where the steps are marked, you need to make 5 mm recesses for them. We assemble all the parts using glue and PSh screws.

Hinges for folding stairs

To assemble the structure into a folding mechanism, you need to make a set of hinges.

Necessary materials:

Metal strips 2.5 cm wide – 8 pcs.
Bolts for the hinge 8 mm and self-tapping screws.

In order for the loops to serve and not bend, four strips need additionally weld the segments the same metal (about 1/3). We make holes in each strip - 2 small ones for fastening to the bowstring (one at the bottom and one under the finished piece), and one large 8 mm for the hinge (at the top).

The hinges need to be secured when the ladder itself is lying on flat surface. The hinge must be secured so that the hinge bolt lay down in the previously drilled hole, and the ends were along the edge of the bowstring. So secure all four loops.

Installation of stairs

We collect all the elements and install them in their places, and the first segment of the ladder is stationary and is needed attach with corners to the hatch cover.

We check the operation of the mechanism, if everything suits you, then we disassemble it again for processing. We varnish the wood metal primed and painted.

As you can see, there is nothing difficult in creating an attic staircase with your own hands, especially when photos of drawings are available on the Internet. You can make all the metal parts yourself, or it’s even easier to buy them ready-made. Then it’s a complete pleasure – all that remains is to assemble this construction set.

This article provides step-by-step instruction on creating a folding attic ladder. You will learn how to correctly assemble the main hinge element, what to make sections of the stairs from and how to securely fasten the structure in installation position. The article contains diagrams and drawings.

An inventory factory staircase to the attic is a fairly common product that can be purchased in many construction stores. However budget options They are not always reliable, but strong branded products cost accordingly. Making a necessary item or device with your own hands from scrap materials is very popular among home craftsmen. The attic staircase is no exception.

Material for work

To assemble an analogue of a factory product, you will need quality materials, which may be available, especially during construction:

Bar 50x50 (pine) 1st grade - 20 linear. m. The frame of the lid and opening will be made from it.
Plywood 8-10 mm - 2 sq. m. Needed for covering the lid.
Board 100x25-30 mm - 15 linear. m. Will go on steps and bowstrings.
Steel strip 3-4x20 mm - for movable fastening of knees.
Angle and plate 3-4 mm - for the main mechanical element.
Bolts, nuts, washers, bolts M12-M14.
Self-tapping screws.

Tool:

Plotnitsky - saw, screwdriver, protractor.
Locksmith - welding machine, electrodes 3-4, grinder.
Workbench and clamps.

Operating procedure

First of all, you need to choose a place for the stairs and make an opening. If necessary, trim and install intermediate beams in the ceiling - by 6-7 mm larger size proposed cover. Next, according to the size of the hatch, you need to assemble the cover itself - from a block and plywood. The design can be arbitrary, but it must be reliable (it is better to glue the connections). The block on one of the short sides should be rounded so as not to interfere with the lid opening.

Assembling the hinge mechanism

This is the most critical element of the design. To make it you will need: a steel corner, a plate and strips with a thickness of at least 3 mm. The shape of the parts is clear from the diagram, but the dimensions of the drilling site should be determined individually, based on the local situation. Manufactured parts must be of high quality; they must be cleaned and edges processed.

1 - thrust plate; 2 - corner, top view; 3 - short slide; 4 - long drawstring

The key point is determining the opening angle. This angle is very important and figures into the production of the plate. In order to set it correctly, project the future march on the ground - stretch the thread and set the desired angle experimentally (by selecting the best position). Securely attach it to the protractor - it will be needed when making steps.

The resulting angle must be transferred to the part, namely to the plate. To do this, set the mechanism to its original position, attach the inclinometer and move until the corners of the corner flange and the inclinometer coincide. Then mark the plate along the resulting trajectory and cut out the area where the part moves.

Holes should be pre-drilled in the plate for mounting to the beam. We assemble the mechanism with bolts and washers.

After rough assembly, you need to try the unit in place, attach it and accurately reproduce the procedure for opening and closing the hatch. If any movement defects are found, correct them.

Then you need to make a response mechanism. It should completely repeat the first one, but in mirror image. Use clamps and a workbench - by clamping the parts together, you will achieve complete identical dimensions.

Make adjustments experimentally and final installation. The lid in the open position must exactly follow the angle projected by the cord.

Manufacturing of sections

Calculation of the length of each section:

1st - opening length minus 10%
2nd - length of the first minus 10%
3rd - march length minus the sum of the first two

Let's assume that the flight length is 2500 mm. Based on the opening length of 1200 mm:

1st - 1080 mm
2nd - 972 mm
3rd - 448 mm

We mark the entire boards according to the calculation and transfer the angle of the march to the bowstrings.

Attention! Bowstrings must be installed in a mirror manner! Take this into account when marking and drilling.

At the joints of the sections we drill holes Ø 25 - mirror through one.

All parts must be processed with high quality sanding belt, chamfers must be rounded in order to bring the quality as close as possible to the factory one.

Then we cut grooves for the steps according to the markings. We select wood with a chisel.

The design of individual sections is assembled using 65 mm self-tapping screws with a press washer using D-3 wood glue.

The hinges for the knees can be made from the same strip as the opening mechanism. To do this, cut 4 strips of 160 mm and 4 of 120 mm, rounding the ends. We weld legs to four of them to a length of 160 mm with a hole of 8 mm. You should end up with 8 pieces of equal length, but 4 of them with a step.

Assemble the individual plates into hinges using bolts.

Assembly of sections and installation of stairs

Lay it out on a flat surface and install the finished sectional hinges so that the fastening bolts fit into the holes in the wood. Install the hinges with M8-10 bolts.

After assembling the first bend, check the system for functionality. If necessary, correct any distortions.

Then attach the lower short elbow and test the system.

Now all that remains is to mount the ladder in its designed position - on the manhole cover. For installation, use bolts (self-tapping screws are not reliable). If after installation and testing everything works without distortions, the structure can be dismantled for painting. Use varnishes and spray paint for metal.

Subsequently, the design can be complicated and made more convenient by adding to it:

Additional hinges to eliminate play.
A spring to support the structure to make opening easier.
Locking lock.
Handrails.
Use decorative finishing and additional insulation.

Finished view of the staircase:

The issue of finishing and insulation is decided locally, based on needs. The lid can be finished with any material that fits into the ceiling. Basically it is plastic - lightweight, inexpensive and has an additional layer of air. The difference in price between the “home” and “store” versions of a folding ladder is about 90% (80-150 USD). The work required only a few new boards, covering them and hardware.

Any room in the house can and should be equipped in an optimal way for the people living there. This also applies to the attic. A do-it-yourself attic staircase becomes excellent example correct use space and forces for organizing space indoors.

The ascent to the attic includes the ladder itself, a special hatch for penetration and a system of levers for fixing the installed span. A do-it-yourself attic staircase allows you to save money and provide excellent quality construction.

Classic look of a retractable staircase to the attic

There are plenty of options on how to make a staircase to the attic. So the choice is up to you optimal solution and its implementation.

Staircase manufacturing, installation and testing are the main stages of work. But without design and calculation future design and construction will be complicated, and the quality may not meet expectations.

The beginning of work is the creation of a hatch leading to the top. A DIY attic ladder is a great approach if you have sufficient knowledge and skills. The correct choice of hatch location, its precise creation and staircase equipment serve as the basis for the entire project.

You have 2 options: use a ready-made hatch or make it yourself. The size of the hole should be comfortable for climbing, so as not to touch the ceiling and slings with your head. The place should not be crossed by beams and load-bearing elements. The hatch must be additionally insulated, because the integrity of the structure is compromised and this can lead to heat loss.

If you decide to make an attic staircase with your own hands, then you should understand that this is not just a classic path to the upper floor. The attic staircase has its own characteristics and requires a special approach.

Manufacturing a hatch for an attic staircase includes the following work:

Development of drawings
Accounting and detailed analysis of the thickness of all structural elements and hatch dimensions.
Selection necessary materials and tools.
Forming an opening where there will be a folding ladder or other option for climbing into the attic.
Assembling the hatch frame and securely fixing all elements.
Making a cover from leftover floor coverings.
Decoration and complex of insulation works.

As a result, you get an equipped hatch that can be easily closed for a while.

The hatch in the closed position practically does not stand out against the background of the ceiling

DIY folding ladder to the attic

In most cases, the design of the stairs to the attic appears this way. An attic ladder that can be folded freely looks convenient and practical, saving space without sacrificing functionality.

Making this type of staircase yourself is quite complex and time-consuming, but proper preparation And step by step execution quite feasible. To make a folding attic ladder, you will need the following tools:

Hacksaw
Polyurethane foam
Screwdriver (preferably electric)
Screwdriver
Anchor bolts
Self-tapping screws of different diameters
Loops for fastening
Roulette.

Before starting the production of an attic ladder, you should make sure that you have an extension ladder, which will serve as the basis for work. A folding ladder can be made in just 1 day, if you have all the materials and tools.

This design option is objectively the most popular, for which there are reasons:

A folding ladder can significantly save space.
The element folds easily and is extremely simple to use.
Harmonious fit into any interior.
Fast production speed.
High strength and long service life.

If you manage to make a folding staircase exactly with the planned dimensions, you will get a spectacular and effective element in home improvement.

Standard sizes

Although the attic ladder is made by hand, there are certain established dimensions that are recommended to be followed. They are selected and laid at the design stage, and during the manufacturing process they serve Starting point for all actions. Below is a list of sizes that can be used:

With a staircase height of 290 cm: 60x90, 60x120 or 70x120 cm.
Height 280 cm: 60x120 and 70x120 cm.
Height up to 280 cm: 60x120, 70x120 and 70x130 cm.

This is the accepted order of numbers. In any case, you choose the final parameters yourself, solely based on personal preferences and understanding of the ease of use of the design.

Drawing

Here is a set of diverse ladders with detailed drawings for work.

The manufacturing process step by step with photo illustrations and detailed descriptions

When making stairs for the attic, it is important to follow the stages of the work in order to get the optimal result. For this we offer you universal instructions(Attention: some changes and adjustments are allowed for a specific case).

Drawing development. Not required here high accuracy and correctness of design. The main thing is that your document is understandable to you personally and contains precisely calculated and verified parameters.
Preparatory work. This important and extensive stage includes the selection complete set tools and materials that will be required to complete the work. Already at this stage, a drawing will help you a lot, because you will clearly imagine what the staircase will look like, which means you can easily draw up full list everything you need.
Manufacturing of the support frame. Based on the standard and selected size of the hatch, you form the frames, carefully adjusting all the corners and cleaning individual areas.

Installed frame and mounted hatch in open position

The frame is installed in the working position and secured with bolts and inserts. The opening fits exactly.
After mounting the frame, the hatch cover is inserted into the body.
Grooves for stairs are made on the guides.
The ends of the support beams should be cut at an angle that will optimally match the floor when the stairs are opened.
The sawn and polished steps are carefully installed in the groove and secured with self-tapping screws.

Installation of steps on bases

All elements (staircase segments) are assembled into a single structure. Metal hinges are used to secure all parts.

Metal loops for connecting structural elements

The ladder assembled on the floor is installed in its working position and attached to the hatch frame.
Be sure to carefully check how the design you created works. To do this, perform the full set of opening/closing movements several times.

Staircase of several sections in assembled condition

See how you can make a staircase to the attic with a visual example

Attic ladder mechanism with hatch - hinged without spring

The design of the hatch opening mechanism is one of key elements when designing stairs. You can purchase a ready-to-install mechanism at any department store. If you do not want to purchase such parts, you can make it yourself.

For the manufacture of simple option opening system, you will need the following set of parts and tools: a corner, a metal sheet (a small piece), 2 strips with different lengths of the blade, bolts for fastening, drills, a jigsaw, cleats and clamps.

The manufacture of the mechanism for the stairs is as follows:

Drawing up a drawing with a detailed description of the elements. Be sure to calculate the angle of contact and the angle of inclination of the lid when opening.
Make a design of the mechanism from cardboard in order to accurately calculate the size of the hinge.
Take metal strips and mark holes on them. The hinges will be installed here. The size of the hole is determined by the size of the M10 bolt.
The strips are assembled together into a single structure and tightened, but not too much.
Determined exact angle using malka.
Extend the mechanism being created to the set angle.
On metal sheet mark the part that will overlap when the hatch is open.
Using a jigsaw, cut this section.
Stripes must be presentable appearance, for which they are carefully cleaned and rounded. The processing of all elements is very important, because it is this that ensures that all elements match exactly and fit optimally. No friction between parts should be allowed.
To make the second part of the mechanism, we recommend using clamps. To ensure accurate dimensions, it is enough to securely fasten the finished element and the source.
You can also use clamps to achieve precise hole placement.
Once the bolt holes are created, the bolt is placed into the finished hole.
The blanks are twisted with two bolts and aligned along their length.

Your task is to make 2 identical mechanisms. Completely finished opening mechanisms are installed on the hatch. Be sure to re-fit the hatch with the mechanisms to the opening - make sure there are no gaps or areas where the elements come into contact.

Adjusting the structure in this area is possible and is not difficult, so pay attention to this.

The hinge is easy to use and allows you to use the ladder comfortably.

Stair options

Attic stairs can have several types. The ability to choose allows you to optimally equip any room depending on your personal wishes and needs.

— folding ladder on hinges

A fairly common format for making stairs. The project consists of 3 sections that are connected into a single structure. This format is suitable for equipping stairs in any room. Hinges for an opening hatch can be purchased ready-made and installed in the shortest possible time.

Folding ladder on hinges

- simple wooden staircase

This option is more attractive and is a definite upgrade of the previous design. To make it, it is enough to cut a standard ladder into 3 sections. The smallest one should be the size of the hatch, the second one should be larger, and the third one should completely cover the remaining distance to the floor. Make grooves on and install steps into them. Be sure to finish all corners and surfaces accurately.

- two-piece folding ladder

An attic staircase option that is suitable for low room heights or a type of simplified design.

Folding ladder

- sliding attic ladder - retractable flights to the attic

A ladder with large retractable sections that can be pulled out and simultaneously cover the distance to the hatch. Requires precise fitting of elements and sufficient space.

Sliding staircase

- do-it-yourself staircase to the attic from the street

An attic staircase can have an unlimited number of design options - below you can admire the completed projects.

Stairs from the street

Photo gallery of attic stairs

Today you can find it online a large number of designs of stairs for the attic. Anyone can make them with their own hands, so you shouldn’t be afraid - you just need to prepare well and do it.

Do-it-yourself staircase to the attic is great way make your home more comfortable and make trips to the attic a real pleasure. The design has a small set of technical difficulties - therefore the product is often made by hand. Basic rules for those who decide to make an attic ladder themselves:

Carefully draw up a drawing based on the obtained dimensions and personal wishes.
Choose the best quality tools and materials.
Carefully inspect all connecting elements and docking parts.
Check the staircase elements more often to prevent defects and eliminate them in a timely manner.

The staircase for climbing to the attic is easy to decorate and fits perfectly into the style of any room. Comfortable handles and reliable fixation forms perfect option climbing to the top, which is an excellent alternative to a standard fixed ladder.

The attic in a house can be used for various purposes. Of course, comfortable access to it must be organized, for which a ladder is needed. It can be installed with outside building or inside it. The latter is easy to use and more popular. There are many ways to make an attic ladder with your own hands. Before describing how to make it into an attic or attic floor, you need to choose the one that’s suitable for your home. constructive solution.

Types of attic and attic stairs

Let's look at the most popular options for attic stairs.

The latter type is more often used for a while or in case of rare use attic space. But the most practical and compact will be a folding design with a hatch.

What to pay attention to when making your own stairs?

The first thing that must be ensured when building an attic or attic staircase with your own hands is safety. The staircase system must have adequate strength and reliability.

The dimensions of the staircase are also important: the more inclined it is, the larger the space occupied. The most suitable angle is considered to be 60-70°. Although with constant use, it is recommended to make it 45°. Steps with a height of 20 cm and a depth of 30 cm are considered standard. The width of the staircase should be comfortable, as a rule, it is about 70 cm. It is not recommended to make such stairs more than 3 m in height, since a higher structure will not have required rigidity and reliability.

It is advised to make a structure with a number of steps from 10 to 15, and leave the distance between them 19 cm. The recommended thickness of the steps is 2 cm. They should be positioned strictly parallel to the floor surface. For greater safety, anti-slip pads are glued to the steps.

Important!The ladder for climbing to the attic floor must withstand a load of 150 kg.

The hatch also has its own recommended parameters. The following dimensions are considered standard: width 70 cm, length 120 cm. Smaller sizes will make the opening not comfortable to use, and larger ones will increase heat loss in the room. For an unheated attic, it is recommended to make the hatch thermally insulated and vapor barrier.

Where is the best place to place the stairs?

The staircase structure should be located so as not to interfere with household members. Therefore, you should not install it in the kitchen; it would be more appropriate to use a corridor or hall for this purpose. It is also worth considering the size of the room. Sometimes a ladder can be used as an interior detail, then it is not hidden in a hatch.

Important! It is advised to first draw the future staircase, then it will be easier for you to understand which place will be the most suitable for its installation.

DIY one-section design

The easiest way to lift it to the attic floor will be a single-section structural solution that will be fixed in one place. To build a staircase with one section you need two wooden boards. The length must be suitable to obtain the appropriate angle of inclination, and the thickness must be at least 5 cm.

The steps can be secured with strings or stringers. Bowstrings are grooves made by a router in the end board. Kosour is called horizontal platform, carved on a board, on which a step is then placed. The steps are fixed in place using metal screw pins. A comfortable climb to the floor is provided by handrails. For their manufacture, polished solid timber appropriate length. Depending on the location of your stairs, the railing may be on one side or on both. To make the structure more reliable, it is worth adding vertical connecting beams.

Manufacturing of a single-section attic ladder.

Making a hatch

Installation and manufacture of the hatch is also an important aspect of the work. It will prevent cold air masses from entering the house. This is the main reason for equipping staircase structures with a hatch. To make it you will need 50x50 bars and a sheet of plywood.

Work order:

Determine a suitable location, taking into account a dimensional margin of 0.8 cm, so that the hatch closes normally.
The bars need to be cut into four parts according to the size of the hatch, and holes should be cut along the edges.
You need to apply glue to each resulting groove and fasten the bars with self-tapping screws.
To maintain the diagonals, screw the gussets.
The next step is attaching the plywood.
The finished cover is tried on, and then the latch is installed on the opening.
To ensure that the lid opens without interference, a handle is installed in the opening.

Important!The resulting structure should open easily and unhindered.

Homemade example attic hatch with metal-plastic cover.

A staircase equipped with a hatch and leading to an unheated attic floor or attic has design features. The opening for the construction of such a structure with a hatch must be insulated. When making a hatch, a layer of thermal insulation and vapor barrier is placed on plywood. The top is once again reinforced with a vapor barrier film. After the work is completed, it remains The final stage– decoration. It is made similar to the ceiling finishing. At your request, the color scheme can contrast with the walls. Sometimes instead plywood sheets They use metal ones, which must be painted with paint that matches the color and performance characteristics.

How to make a folding staircase structure from two sections?

The staircase design of two sections is quite simple to manufacture and does not involve the use of a complex mechanism. This design will be optimal for execution by a person without special construction skills.

First of all you need to do a simple ladder. After manufacturing, it is carefully adjusted according to the dimensions, and precisely observing the angle of inclination. Then finished design cut into two sections that need to be attached to each other using canopies, and you get a folding ladder. All you have to do is install the folding structure to the cover of your hatch.

Folding staircase design can be supplemented with an auxiliary cable mechanism, which will facilitate disassembly and assembly of the system. To prevent the folded structure from opening, install a fixing hook. To secure it, a loop is installed at the junction of the sections, and a hook is mounted on the wall at the required distance from it. The design is ready for use, but it will always be in your sight, which is considered its disadvantage. If this point is important to you, then you can use the following recommendations. Make a three-section ladder, which is made using the above technology. Such a ladder can be easily hidden in a hatch.

Making a folding staircase to the attic.

Manufacturing of the hinge mechanism

When making a folding structure, the mechanism that opens it is important. You can make it yourself using the following materials:

metal corner;
part of a sheet of metal;
two strips of different lengths;
bolts;
clamps;
set of drills;
drill;
jigsaw;
Teks;
small

Manufacturing procedure:

First, the staircase is drawn on a sheet of cardboard indicating the future angle of inclination when opened.
Then they cut out a mock-up from cardboard to check all dimensions.
On strips of metal, measure out the places for the holes where the hinge will be attached. The hole must match the size of the bolt.
The parts are assembled and pulled together.
Use a measuring stick to measure desired angle. Then open the mechanism to the resulting angle.
Mark on the metal the part that will be covered by the corner during opening. Cut it out with a jigsaw.
Round the corners of the strips and remove unnecessary length so that the strips do not catch, which will allow you to operate the mechanism.
When the excess metal is removed, the corner will rest in the desired place. You have made the first hinge.
The second is made by fastening parts with clamps in pairs, with special tools for better fixation. Drill a hole and place a bolt in it.
Then a second hole is made.
The blanks are twisted using two bolts. After which they can be aligned, giving them the same shape.

This is how all parts of the hinge are performed to obtain the same elements. The completed mechanisms are attached to the hatch and tested to see if it matches the opening. They do it this way: if, when fully opened, it does not touch the edges of the opening, then the dimensions were taken correctly, and the hatch is ready for installation.

Manufacturing of folding staircase structure

Construction folding stairs has similar technology to folding ones. At the first stage, an extension ladder is made using the technology described above. Then choose the more suitable of the two options:

The entire structure can be folded back.
The ladder folds out in parts, similar to a folding one.

This type of structure is not hidden in a manhole cover. Manufacturing of folding attic stairs.

Advice! If you decide to make a staircase for the attic or attic yourself, it is recommended to use materials that are light in weight, this will make the structure easier to operate. When making your choice, also consider the ease of processing of materials and their aesthetics.

For country cottages, private houses and simple country houses, equipped with an attic, the presence of a convenient and reliable staircase leading to the mentioned room is a common necessity of life.

At the same time, the staircase does not have to be capital and bulky at all - you can assemble and install an excellent folding structure, which will be in no way inferior to stationary stairs.

You can complete all the related tasks yourself, saving money and testing your own strength.

There are several types of stairs that can be installed to access your attic.

Stationary

A staircase with wide flights and railings is the most reliable, durable and easy-to-use design. However, the possibility of arranging such a staircase is not available everywhere - it certainly cannot be equipped in small areas.

Portable

They are used primarily as a temporary option, as well as for access to rarely used rooms. The main disadvantages of such a ladder are low safety and ease of use. Therefore, if possible, the use of such a design should be abandoned.

Folding

They are something between portable and stationary stairs. In terms of ease of use and safety, they are almost in no way inferior to full-fledged ones. stationary structures and have, at the same time, a significant advantage - they require very little space for their arrangement. Therefore, when self-production It is recommended to give preference to folding stairs.

Selection of materials

No less important point is the choice of materials from which the stairs to the attic will be assembled. Wood is usually used to make the main elements of folding sectional stairs, and fasteners are traditionally made of metal.

Currently there are many various materials, types of controls and fasteners, which makes it possible to easily assemble a folding ladder that will best suit your specific room.

When choosing materials for the manufacture of attic stairs, you need to take into account a number of important factors. First of all, decide on the functional purpose of the structure, its type, width, and optimal quantity sections.

The functional purpose of the stairs to the attic is very important in terms of determining the maximum permissible load on the steps. So, for example, factory-made wooden stairs can withstand an average load of 150 kgf, metal ones - 250 kgf. For homemade stairs, these figures are slightly reduced.

This does not mean that the steps will not be able to withstand a higher load, but it is definitely not worth loading them regularly, otherwise the structure will break very quickly.

The width of the stairs should not be greater than the width of the attic opening.

When choosing the dimensions of the attic ladder, be guided by proven and approved standards.

Remember: the steps must be installed strictly parallel to the floor surface. In addition, the steps of the stairs must be non-slip. To do this, you can stuff linings of any non-slip material over the base material.

Guide to making a staircase to the attic

There is nothing overly complicated about making your own stairs to the attic. Of course, an inexperienced craftsman is unlikely to be able to assemble a structure with the same attractive appearance as factory-made models, but it’s definitely worth a try.

Before starting work, create a drawing of the future staircase. If you do not have the necessary skills, order the creation of a drawing from a specialist, or select a suitable diagram from the options presented in open sources.

Tools

Prepare all the necessary tools immediately so as not to be distracted by searching for missing tools in the future.

You will need:

Also, before starting work, you need to buy or assemble an ordinary ladder. To assemble this design yourself, you only need to fix the transverse steps between two long vertical posts and further strengthen the structure.

The finished staircase should be approximately 30 cm longer than the distance from the level of the opening to the attic to the floor.

You can also easily handle making a hatch with your own hands. The only materials you need are sheets of plywood and wooden beam 5x5 cm.

First step. Choose a location to place the hatch and determine its optimal dimensions. Add approximately 7-9 mm on each side to the dimensions of the hatch so that in the future you can easily close the lid without squeaks or other noise. Make the opening according to the specific dimensions.

Second step. Cut the wooden beam into four parts in accordance with the dimensions of the hatch.

Third step. Make grooves at the ends of the bars. Lubricate the prepared grooves and connect the bars into a rectangular (square) structure. Additionally strengthen the connections using self-tapping screws. Screw the gussets so that the diagonal does not move.

Fourth step. Attach the plywood cover to the resulting base and try on the product in the hatch opening.

Fifth step. Install a regular latch into the hatch cover. You will open the latch using a handle. Attach it to the lid and finally fix the product in the pre-aligned opening. Usually loops are used for this.

Simple folding ladder

Start making a folding ladder. It is assumed that you already have at your disposal the previously mentioned wooden extension ladder.

First step. Attach the width of the beam to the bottom of the ladder. Attach the same block to the top of the product. In this case, the lower bar must be fixed rigidly, and the upper one - on the hinges.

Second step. Saw the ladder into 2 parts. Top part should have a length of about 2/3 of the total length of the stairs.

Third step. Attach a pair of slats to provide additional diagonal rigidity.

Fourth step. Connect the parts of the structure using loops.

Fifth step. Secure the top beam under the hatch using anchors.

Sixth step. Secure the bottom of the ladder with a hook - this will prevent it from opening spontaneously. Place the loop on the stringer above the cutting line.

Seventh step. Press the finished structure against the wall surface and secure.

The main disadvantage is this homemade stairs is not a very attractive appearance - the entire beam and fasteners remain visible. However, such a staircase copes 100% with the main tasks - ensuring a convenient and safe ascent and return descent.

An improved and more attractive version of the previous design. There is also nothing complicated in making such a staircase; it is enough to follow all the instructions step by step.

First step. Share a regular sideboard wooden stairs into 3 parts. Make the first part according to the dimensions of the attic hatch, make the second a little smaller than the first, and make the third such that the remaining space to the floor surface is completely covered.

Second step. Take a small tool and measure the corner of the attic hatch. Transfer the angle to the boards, thus marking the location of the steps.

Third step. Drill holes where the hinges will be located between the individual stair sections.

Fourth step. Sand the edges of the structures.

Fifth step. Saw the boards at the hinge points.

Sixth step. Cut and sand the steps.

Seventh step. Prepare indentations for the steps in the strings.

Eighth step. Insert the steps into the prepared recesses. Use glue and further strengthen the connections with self-tapping screws.

Ninth step. Connect the sections of the stairs using special loops. To do this, the sections must be placed on a stable, flat surface.

Tenth step. Check the operation of all sections. If you find any defects or deviations, try to correct them immediately.

Eleventh step. Sand everything down wooden surfaces and coat them with varnish.

Twelfth step. After completely dry varnish, install the structure in the attic hatch opening. If necessary, make final adjustments to the structural elements.

Thus, self-assembly stairs is extremely simple and accessible to almost every event. At the same time, the cost of a homemade staircase will be much lower compared to the price of a similar factory-made design. Follow the instructions and everything will definitely work out.

Good luck!

Also read the article on our website - do-it-yourself staircase to the basement.