Folding staircase to the second floor. Do-it-yourself arrangement of stairs to the attic: features of folding and stationary stairs, arrangement of a flight of stairs and fixing steps

In most cases, the attic is rarely used. For this reason, installing a massive stationary staircase is far from ideal. A more practical solution is a folding ladder to the attic, the small size of which allows you to save free space as much as possible.

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

Among the shortcomings, it is worth highlighting the following points:

• Difficulty in manufacturing. Some models are quite difficult to make with your own hands. This will require complex and accurate calculations, tools, as well as appropriate skills.
• Lack of sufficient comfort when using. Climbing or descending stairs with a large angle of inclination is not very convenient, and lifting massive objects along such structures is not the most reasonable option.
• Low payload. Most models can not withstand weight more than 150 kg.

Types of folding stairs

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

• scissor;
• telescopic;
• sectional;
• folding.

scissor models

Folding scissor-type products are also called “accordion stairs.” This name perfectly describes its essence: when folded, the product resembles a small block, and when unfolded, it straightens out like accordion bellows. 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 in the folded state are minimal. Perhaps the only drawback of this variety is not very reliable fastenings between the blocks. Therefore, the scissor ladder should be handled with care and do not forget to lubricate the mechanisms between the segments. Working principle of electric scissor ladder

Telescopic varieties

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

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

Sectional stairs

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

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

Folding products

The most unusual option is a folding ladder. This model has a couple of interesting features:

Since the design is similar to direct march varieties, the angle of inclination of the folding ladder is about 45 degrees, which contributes to the most convenient use. As negative points it is worth highlighting:

• high requirements for free space;
• "specific" design (when folded, the folding ladder does not look very nice, because it is not hidden and is always in sight);
• massive structure.

Material used

The material plays an important role for folding stairs. On the one hand, it must be durable, on the other hand, it must have a minimum cost. These requirements are fully met only by 2 materials - wood and metal.

Wooden products are mainly made from coniferous wood, such as pine. Such models have good reliability and low price. In addition, the creation of wooden stairs does not require specific skills or sophisticated equipment. As disadvantages, it is worth highlighting the following points:

• 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 wooden counterparts. In particular, the advantages of such products include:

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

The only drawback of metal varieties is the difficulty of self-manufacturing. For work, knowledge of welding and appropriate equipment will be required.

Important Points

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

• optimal span width - 60-70 cm (excluding load-bearing beams);
• the recommended angle of inclination of the structure is 45-60 degrees, the maximum is 75 degrees;
• average number of steps - 15 pcs.;
• step thickness - 2 cm (± 2 mm);
• The “step” of the steps is 17-22 cm (the steps should be located at an equidistant distance from each other throughout the entire flight of stairs);
• with frequent use of the stairs, 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 put anti-slip pads on metal steps;
• wooden models should not be installed in too dry or damp rooms (the service life is reduced);
• fasteners and mechanisms must securely connect the sections of the product;
• it is recommended to lubricate the mechanisms of the structure from time to time.

Making a folding ladder with your own hands

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

• preparation for work;
• staircase manufacturing.

Preparatory stage

The manufacture of stairs begins with the design - taking measurements and creating a drawing. The scheme is recommended to be performed in three projections: front view, top view and side view.

Important! In this case, the design in the drawing should be displayed in the "straightened" state.

Also, the drawing must meet the following requirements:

• on the projection from above, draw a plan of the room, on which the location of the stairs should be noted;
• for greater clarity, the dimensions of the elements are recommended to be indicated in separate footnotes;
• metal parts are displayed with diagonal lines, wood - with curlicues (imitation of wooden "rings").

After preparing the drawing, the necessary materials are purchased. When everything is ready, it is worth preparing the toolkit. So, for 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 drills for metal;
• fasteners.

In order for the structure to fold, it is necessary to purchase metal card loops.

Execution of works

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 carrier beam;
3. steps are inserted into the holes made;
4. rubber pads are put on from below the bearing 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 bar with the help of loops;
7. the lower part () is pressed against the wall and fastened on a hook.

Making a folding ladder

The procedure for manufacturing a folding folding ladder is completely different:

1. the first bowstring is rigidly 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 faces of the carrier beam;
4. a line is marked perpendicular to the end of the first segment;
5. from the perpendicular mark, an indent is made to the right by 1 cm and a vertical line is drawn;
6. the marking made marks the beginning of the second step (the following steps are marked in the same way);
7. the markup is transferred to the second string;
8. with the help of loops, the steps are attached to the supporting beams (on a stationary bowstring they should rise, on a movable one they should go down);
9. a loop is attached to the movable bowstring and a hook is installed for it in the appropriate place on the wall.

An example of a folding ladder to the attic

Folding stairs for the attic are gaining more and more popularity in the CIS countries. This is facilitated by low cost, ease of installation and, most importantly, compactness of products. However, it should be borne in mind that, in comparison with conventional structures, using folding stairs is less convenient.

Or a cottage there is no need to explain what an attic is. Often, the layout of the internal space does not allow equipping a stationary staircase for climbing to the named room. This circumstance is due to a rare visit, the theft of quadrature and clutter of the interior. Of course, many will say that they do a good job with a stepladder, however, regular trips for this device, as well as its unsteadiness, make many owners think about building a compact ladder structure. To solve this problem, it is necessary to understand the variety of types of the named element and find out how to make a staircase to the attic without resorting to the help of specialists and without wasting 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 tips from professionals, which will later help you quickly and efficiently complete the assembly work, as well as ensure reliable operation over a significant period of operation. The main ones are:

• the width of the stairs is not more than 65 cm;
• height no more than 3 m;
• the optimal number of steps is up to 15 pcs.;
• the distance between the steps is not 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 more weight;
• the position of the steps at the time of opening must be strictly parallel to the floor;
• standard hatch dimensions - 120 × 60 or 120 × 70 cm.

Compliance with all of the above requirements for the arrangement of stairs to the attic room will allow you to perform work with proper quality and focus on durability of operation, as well as eliminate excessive heat loss in winter periods.

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

In the assortment of modern stores there are many options for the execution of stairs, but it is more expedient to single out 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 single structure thanks to hinge mechanisms and hinges;
• telescopic - consists of several flights of stairs, which at the time of assembly are stacked one on top of the other (aluminum is usually used as the fundamental basis of this design).

Making a folding ladder to the attic with your own hands is a simple event that 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 material. The tool kit does not provide for the availability 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 hinged hooks;
• one-piece staircase design with a margin of 20–25 cm for the length of the side bases;
• 4-6 card-type loops;
• timber with a thickness of 3-4 cm.

The diversity of this element allows the homeowner not to be too attached to traditional methods and to choose the type that is best for himself, depending on the available square footage, interior and other important characteristics. However, with little building experience, it is more expedient to independently manufacture a ladder structure for an attic in simple accessible ways, which are represented by hinged and folding types.

hinged view

The named type of stairs can be easily made in 3-4 hours. To make it, it is enough to take two beams with a 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 ladder supports. Further, from the upper edge of the prepared wooden stairs, we measure 2/3 and make a cut. Then we fasten these components and the top with the upper support beam with the help of loops. The design is ready, it remains only to equip a hook in the wall in the place where the lower section is folded so that the ladder is securely fixed to the wall.

It would be useful to reinforce the upper support partition with steel corners or anchors, since most of the load will fall on this element.

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

In order to avoid spontaneous opening of the resulting staircase, a bar located on the upper edge of the structure should be equipped with a hook.

Before fixing the hinge devices, additionally check the correct opening of all components. It would be useful to install a sheet of plywood on the back of the stairs, so that when closing the stairs completely folded into the gap between the hatch and the common 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 the independent arrangement of auxiliary structures from time immemorial has been the subject of attention of most owners of private houses. By adhering to the general rules of construction and following the simple recommendations presented, you can easily make an excellent staircase to the attic without spending a lot of money on it.

Video

The provided video material, consisting of two parts, tells in detail about the manufacture of the attic stairs:

A photo

The photographs show various options for attic stairs:

Scheme

If you decide to make a staircase yourself, then below are a number of schemes that you can take as the basis of your design:

The space between the ceiling and the roof in private houses is occupied by the attic. It is used by the owners for storage, provides an opportunity to inspect and repair the inside of the roofing pie. A folding ladder installed to get to the attic can be made by hand. Portable structures such as ladders are not always convenient and reliable. The stationary version, which is easily extended if necessary, and most of the time is in the folded state, will be the best model for a small space.

1. Place of installation:
   • outdoor - mounted outside the building, the disadvantage is the need to leave the premises in any weather;
   • internal - located in the house.
2. By design:
   • monolithic - screw or marching;
   • portable - attached, ladders;
   • folding - sliding, folding, scissor, folding.

Monolithic structures provide complete safety of lifting to the attic. But they take up valuable space in the room. Portable models are convenient as a temporary option, but they are not suitable for permanent use due to the increased risk of injury. The best choice is a folding ladder, which takes up a minimum of space. This design is often attached to the hatch, it has a compact size, and making it yourself will save money.

Features of folding structures

Transforming models have several options, from which you can choose the right one for your home. When designing a product, one should take into account not only the dimensions, but also the design features. The minimum number of sections of a folding ladder should be 3 pieces. A 2-piece model will require a significant increase in the size of the attic hatch. The folding ladder is lowered manually, using a weight for weighting, or automatically, using an electric drive.

Varieties of folding attic stairs

telescopic model consists of parts that slide into each other. The material for it is aluminum, which is lightweight, durable, and resistant to corrosion. It is compact, functional, will last a long time, but it is difficult to make such a product with your own hands. A variant of mounting on a hatch of a finished structure is possible.

scissor model made from metal parts. It develops according to the principle of an accordion. A solid construction with comfortable steps has one drawback - over time, a creak appears at the joints. Preventing the problem will allow timely lubrication of the attachment points.

The scissor ladder is reliable and has a beautiful appearance

Folding ladder will not take up a single extra centimeter. It is difficult to design and install. Its steps are attached to the bowstring with card loops, and in the folded position, the folding model is fixed on the wall.

Retractable ladder to the attic consists of several sections, the upper part is firmly attached to the hatch, it is equal to the size of the cover. The remaining sections are connected by special fittings and hinges. When unfolded, they form an even flight of stairs. It is easy to bring the product into working position, thanks to its mobility. The difference between the telescopic and sliding models is in the way the sections slide. In the first case, they are placed one inside the other, and in the second, they move with the help of rollers from the outside along the guides.

The attic climb structure should be installed in a place where it will not interfere, usually a hall or corridor. Sliding and folding stairs are adjusted to standard dimensions, which are designed with safety in mind:

• the angle of inclination of the structure is 65-75 degrees, a larger value will make use unsafe, and a smaller one will require a lot of space for placement;
• the optimal width of the stairs is 65 cm;
• the recommended number of steps is 13-15 pieces;
• the length of the structure should be about 3.5 m, with an increase, it loses rigidity and strength, the processes of lowering and lifting become more complicated;
• convenient distance between the steps for movement - 19.3 cm;
• a ladder made by one's own hands is calculated for a load of up to 150 kg;
• the safe thickness of the steps is 1.8-2.2 cm;
• horizontal crossbars are mounted parallel to the floor, for safety they are supplemented with anti-slip pads.

The attic hatch also has standard dimensions, its parameters are 120x70cm, they provide unhindered passage and minimal heat loss.

Materials for manufacturing

The materials from which the stairs are made with their own hands are subject to requirements for strength and weight. The design for frequent use due to rapid wear is not made of wood. Metal is the best option for such a product, it will ensure safe and durable operation.

To reduce the total weight of the ladder attached to the hatch, the combination of materials will allow. Steps are made from lighter wood. Bars of hard wood with a thickness of about 2 cm are used. Metal or plastic fittings are installed to connect the products, the latter reduces the friction of the parts. In the folded position, the structure is attached to the hatch, which eliminates spontaneous loss.

Manufacturing technology of a simple folding design

If the hatch is located near the edge of the ceiling, then for lifting you can install a folding ladder of two sections with your own hands, which will rest on the wall. The basis for the design can be a finished product, it will take about two hours to transform it.

A simple folding ladder that is easy to do with your own hands

Tools for work:

• screwdriver;
• roulette;
• hacksaw.

Materials:

• wooden blocks measuring 2x3 cm;
• card loops;
• self-tapping screws;
• hook and loop.

1. Take two bars equal to the width of the stairs. One is hinged to the upper edge, and the second is firmly fixed at the bottom, ensuring the stability of the unfolded structure.
2. The ladder used is divided into two parts - one of them is 2/3 of the length, and the second is 1/3. A neat cut of the bowstring is performed along the intended line.
3. Metal hinges are screwed to connect the sections. Pay attention to how the fittings are located. It should ensure that the lower part of the ladder folds under the upper one.
4. A bar is fixed on the wall under the attic opening, to which the folding structure is attached.
5. For reliable fixation in the folded position, a loop is screwed in near the sawing point, and a hook is installed on the wall in the appropriate place.

The advantage of such a product is the ease of doing it yourself, and the disadvantage is an open location.

Manufacture of the hatch

If a folding ladder is placed on the cover of the opening, it is not visible from the room and will not interfere with the interior. Simple drawings will help determine the dimensions of the hatch and the product. Having measured the sides of the passage to the attic, they begin to assemble the hatch with their own hands.

You need to prepare the following materials:

• bars with a section of 50x50m;
• plywood sheet 10 mm;
• PVA glue;
• fasteners;
• door latch with handle.

Two parts equal to the length of the opening and two similar to its width (120x70 cm) are cut off from the bar. Each edge of the bar is sawn to half the width. These sections are smeared with PVA glue and glued together into a rectangle. To hold the exact diagonal, right-angled plywood triangles, called kerchiefs, are attached to the frame. After the glue dries, the bars are additionally connected with self-tapping screws, and the scarves are removed. A prepared plywood sheet is screwed to the workpiece. The design will fit to the opening. To keep the hatch in the closed position, a door latch is cut into it. The fittings have a convenient handle with which the hatch will open.

Assembling the opening mechanism

Making a hatch opening mechanism with your own hands is a rather complicated process to make the task easier, it is enough to purchase a finished product in a store.

Those who decide to assemble the entire structure on their own must prepare a metal corner, two strips and a sheet of metal.

In order not to be mistaken with the size of the hinges, they are initially cut out of cardboard. After fitting, proceed to work with metal.

1. Places for fastening according to the template are marked on the metal strip.
2. Holes are drilled for a bolt with a diameter of 10.
3. Details are assembled and baited with bolts. The selected angle of fixation of the stairs is measured with a small one, and then the parts are moved apart by the desired value.
4. On the metal, a section is indicated, which, when lowered, is blocked by a corner. This area is cut off. Removing the excess, the details are processed to give an aesthetic appearance.
5. The second mechanism should be identical to the one already made. For an exact match of the holes, the parts are connected with a clamp and drilled.
6. Having inserted bolts into the second mechanism, it is equalized according to the model, cutting off excess metal.
7. Ready-made opening mechanisms are installed by hand on the hatch . They will create an emphasis, fixing the folding structure at the right angle.

To ensure uniform distribution of the load will allow the installation of a second hinge mechanism that supports the hatch in the middle. You will need: two metal strips 2 cm wide, a corner and a piece of metal. The corner serves as a support for the mechanism when opening. A piece of metal is welded to one part, against which the second part rests. When lowering the hatch, the hinge will move apart, taking part of the weight of the structure.

Wooden staircase, do it yourself

The easiest way is to make a wooden structure, the material will be a 2.5x10 cm board. The product consists of three sections, the first two are equal in length to the hatch, and the size of the last is the distance remaining to the floor.

The length of the sections is marked on two boards used to make the bowstring. The marks should mirror each other, therefore, before work, the workpieces are connected with adhesive tape. Holes for the hinges are drilled in the designated places, after which the boards are sawn. To give attractiveness, all wooden parts are sanded and covered with two layers of varnish. Do-it-yourself metal hinges are coated with a primer and paint before installation.

Holes 5 mm deep are cut out under the fasteners of the steps on the inside of the bowstring. PVA glue is applied to them, and then fixed with self-tapping screws. The next step is to connect the three sections into a common structure using hinges. After checking the possibility of bending the parts, the ladder is fixed to the hatch. The upper section of the product is fixed on it with anchors. Folding ladder to the attic is ready.

In contact with

Currently, every developer is trying to make the most of the available area of ​​his home. However, climbing into the attic without a ladder is almost impossible. Do-it-yourself attic stairs are the best option for safely climbing to the attic.

The ladder to the attic can be located both indoors and outdoors. Of course, when the ladder is located inside, it is much more convenient to use it - you do not need to go out in the cold in winter or get wet in the rain in autumn.

There are several types of attic stairs, namely:

• folding;
• stationary;
• portable.

Stationary stairs with railings and wide flights are the most convenient, but their use is limited due to the impossibility of operation in small areas.

Portable ladders are used mainly as a temporary option and serve to access rooms that are rarely used. The main disadvantage of such a ladder is low security.

Folding attic stairs are the middle link between stationary and portable. In terms of convenience, they are almost as good as stationary ones, but they take up much less space. In terms of safety, they are significantly superior to portable designs.

The choice in favor of one or another type depends on several factors:

• the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe room where the staircase will be located;
• purpose of the attic;
• possible angle of inclination.

Standard sizes

There are a number of standards that an attic staircase must comply with:

• the optimal width of the march should be about 65-110 cm;
• the height should not exceed 3.5 m. This is due not only to the fact that the rigidity of the structure is significantly reduced, but also to the fact that a fall from such a height can lead to serious injury;
• the number of steps should usually not exceed 15;
• between the steps it is customary to make a distance of about 19 cm;
• the thickness of the steps is usually 18-22 mm;
• the standard tilt angle is 60-75 degrees. A small angle requires a lot of space, and a large one is dangerous during operation;
• folding ladder must withstand 150 kg load;
• steps should be installed parallel to the floor and should not be slippery.

Manufacturing process

Making attic stairs with your own hands is not at all as difficult as it might seem at first glance. Of course, you won’t achieve such beauty as industrial models, but it’s worth a try. Do-it-yourself drawings of attic stairs that you can make can simply be found on our website.

Luke - the basis of any attic stairs

You can make a hatch with your own hands using the following materials:

• bars 50 × 50 mm;
• plywood.

The order of work is as follows:

• determine the location and size of the future hatch;

Note!
7-8 mm should be added to the overall dimensions of the hatch so that the lid closes easily and without creaking.

• cut the timber into 4 parts of the required size;
• we cut grooves at the ends of the bars;
• lubricate the grooves with glue and connect the bars, reinforce the junction with self-tapping screws;

• so that the diagonal does not go away, we fasten the scarves;
• fix plywood;
• try on the hatch in the opening;
• to close the hatch well, we will cut the latch into the lid;
• to open the hatch we will use the handle, which is inserted into the hole and presses the latch.

Necessary tools and materials

For self-manufacturing stairs to the attic with your own hands, you must have the entire list:

• wood saw;
• foam gun;
• a set of screwdrivers or a screwdriver with a set of bits;

• various self-tapping screws, anchors;
• roulette;
• card loops;
• bars 20-30 mm thick.

These are just the basic tools that you will need for self-manufacturing if you already have a ready-made wooden ladder 30 cm longer than necessary to the level of the opening.

Simple design

As an example, consider how to make an attic ladder with your own hands.

The instruction will allow you to understand the principle of work:

• on the finished one-piece staircase made of wood, we fix 2 bars in width, on the lower and upper parts. Moreover, we fasten the upper bar to the hinges, and fasten the lower one rigidly;
• sawing the ladder into 2 parts. measuring 2/3 of the length. The top part will be longer, the bottom short;
• to stiffen diagonally, we fix 2 slats;
• we connect both parts of the stairs with loops;
• with the help of anchors we fix the upper bar under the hatch;

• so that the lower part does not open, it is fixed with a hook. The loop is located on the stringer above the cut.
• the finished staircase for the attic is pressed against the wall surface and fixed.

The main disadvantage that this design of the attic stairs has is its appearance and the fact that all fasteners and bars are visible. However, even such a do-it-yourself ladder to the attic will greatly simplify the difficulties with climbing and descending from the attic.

Folding design on bowstrings

For the manufacture of the structure, several steps must be performed:

• divide the total height into 3 parts. The first part will correspond to the dimensions of the hatch, the second is slightly smaller, and the third will cover the remaining distance to the floor;

• we measure the angle of the hatch with the help of a bevel;
• we transfer the angle to the boards, thereby marking the steps;
• in place of the future hinge between the sections, we drill holes;
• we grind all edges;
• we cut the boards in those places where the hinges will be placed;
• cut and grind steps;
• under the steps we make small recesses in the bowstrings;
• we insert the steps into the recesses, putting them on glue and fastening them with self-tapping screws;
• connect the sections with special loops. To do this, be sure to place the sections on a flat surface;

we disassemble the entire system into details;

carefully sand and varnish all surfaces;

after the varnish has dried, we assemble the entire structure and use it.

Note!
Working at height is recommended with a partner.
This will not only help to avoid injury, but also greatly speed up the whole process!

The price of a ladder made by one's own hands is much lower than the price of a factory design, so if the financial issue is acute, be sure to try to do everything yourself.

Conclusion

Purchasing a ready-made staircase to the attic is the easiest option, however, with the necessary tools and initial skills, it is not at all difficult to make it yourself. In the presented video in this article you will find additional information on this topic.

The staircase to the attic is a simple design that you can easily create yourself. It can be solid - made of wood or metal, or it can have a light and convenient folding shape. What options are suitable for your attic and how to make and install an attic staircase with a hatch with your own hands, read in our material.

Attic ladders? It's in the past!

Access to the attic is almost always located in one of the living rooms on the top floor of the house. Therefore, you either have to sacrifice space and spoil the interior, or use a portable stepladder. The last option is not only troublesome, but also quite risky, since unstable steps can break off, and in order to hold the ladder itself, you often need to invite home help.

We suggest you make a choice in favor of a more reliable option - the design and implementation of a new modern attic staircase. The types and recommendations for creating a solid staircase to the attic with your own hands, which we give below, will help you make your choice.

Attic stairs: overview of options

The main elements of the stairs are the bowstring and kosour (side parts); tread (steps) and riser (for fixed stairs).

I. Capital Steps

If there is enough space in your house, then we advise you to build a stationary staircase to access the attic or attic. This option is reliable, practical and durable. Capital steps can be made on the basis of a metal frame or high-quality wood.

Monolithic stairs can be marching, with one or more bends, and spiral (spiral). Marching options have steps in the form of rectangular plates (boards), which evenly tend upward with the same distance. The spiral staircase is folded around the central base, has steps narrowed to the inner edge and is arranged in a spiral. The latter option is more compact and can be built even in small rooms, without sacrificing space.

The "pluses" of the capital option include durability, reliability and comfort in use.

The capital staircase, in most cases, does not provide a hatch for access to the attic, so it is more suitable for houses with a warm roof. For a cold roof, the exit to the attic must be closed with an airtight hatch. The standard dimensions of the hatch are 120x70 cm. It does not make sense to make a smaller passage, as this will make it difficult to get into the attic and install the steps.

The material for the hatch is wood, metal or plastic. You can order a blank for the hatch at the factory of metal-plastic structures with installation or self-assembly. The hatch can be automatic and manual opening. The latter option uses a special pole that opens the latch (lock) and lowers the door with a ladder.

II. Portable ladders

Portable steps - the closest analogue of the "good old" stepladders. Such a ladder will be reliable only if you make a folding version with a platform. However, it is difficult to call such a construction convenient. You will have to make extra efforts to get into the attic hole, and the issue of storing such a ladder will cause a lot of trouble.

III. Folding attic stairs with hatch

A very convenient and easy-to-implement type of attic staircase is folding steps connected to a hatch. Due to the convenience of the design, this type of steps has become the most popular among professional craftsmen.

Today, there are many varieties of folding ladders, among which you can choose the most suitable option (telescopic, scissor, folding, etc.).

The folding mechanism is suitable for any attic with a hatch, on which the ladder structure can be fixed.

1. Scissor steps. This type is made of metal. The steps themselves can be wooden. The ladder is a compressible mechanism. When folded, the design takes on a very compact shape and size, so it is perfect for a small attic hatch;
2. Telescopic steps. They are a system of retractable sections (like a folding telescope). This option is made of aluminum and also looks very compact on a small attic door;
3. Folding (folding) ladders. This type is the most popular, as it is characterized by practicality, durability, economy and ease of installation. Next, we will describe it in more detail.

In general, most stairs schematically look like this:

Before proceeding with the design of the attic stairs, consider some of the standard design features:

• The width of the march for attic steps should not exceed 60-65 cm;
• The height of the entire structure (taking into account the slope) is allowed up to 300 cm. Anything that exceeds this length becomes less stable and less strong. The higher the ladder, the less load it can withstand;
• Based on the recommended length of the stairs, the number of steps is selected - 13-15 pieces, with a distance between them of up to 20 cm;
• The most convenient and safe angle of inclination of the stairs is 60-700 degrees;
• Steps are the direct recipient of the load when lifting, so they must have a dense structure and a thickness of 18 mm or more, and be located strictly parallel to the floor.

The choice of material for the flight of stairs should be determined by the frequency of operation of the structure. Wood wears out faster than metal. So, if you go up to the attic every day, it is better to design stairs made of metal. In other cases, wood, as a material that is light, environmentally friendly and easy to install, is very popular.

So, let's get started and create a modern attic staircase with a do-it-yourself hatch according to the drawings that our specialists have prepared for you.

Stages of design and installation of a ladder of three sections with a hatch

Any work must begin with a project. Determine the height of your future stairs, taking into account the height of the ceiling and a slope of 60-70 degrees. It is also worth accurately measuring the attic passage and drawing the appropriate diagram. The drawing should contain the following information: the length of the stairs, the angle of inclination, the height of the ceiling of the room, the dimensions of the passage and the attic hatch, the width of the march, the number and dimensions of the sections, the number, distance and dimensions of the steps.

I. Drawing preparation

At this stage, the design is calculated. The length of the stairs is easy to calculate. We use a simple mathematical formula: D \u003d B /, where α is the selected angle of inclination, B is the height of the ceiling. So, with a ceiling height of 3 m and an angle of inclination of 60 degrees, the length of the stairs will be 3 / 0.867 = 3.46 m. ​​Masters advise adding a few centimeters to the resulting figure, so that later you can more accurately measure and cut off the desired length:

The dimensions of the hatch should be slightly smaller than the opening itself. For calculation, 6-7 mm are left on each side of the door.

We calculate the length of the sections according to the following scheme: the first section is the length of the hatch minus 10%; the second section is the length of the first section minus 10%; third section - the sum of the lengths of the first two sections is subtracted from the total length of the stairs.

Now the calculations need to be transferred to paper and proceed to the preparation of the necessary materials and tools.

II. Choice of materials and tools

To implement the project, you need to prepare carpentry tools: a tape measure, a chisel, a hacksaw, a screwdriver, a welding machine (or capital connections for a metal frame), a square, a hacksaw, clamps, carpentry glue, masking tape, electrodes, carpentry glue.

The main materials that we need: 50x50 mm bars for finishing the hatch (about 4-5 pieces); two boards for a bowstring 100x25 mm long, equal to the chosen length of the stairs; board for steps 100x20 or 100x25 mm; plywood or material with similar characteristics (one standard sheet is enough for the hatch door); plates and corners for opening and loops; nuts, bolts, screws, washers, etc.

III. Hatch door manufacturing

Step I. Prepare the bars for the hatch. At the ends of the bars, make notches-grooves to tightly connect the structure into a regular triangle using mounting adhesive and fasteners. Protect the corners of the frame with temporary plywood plates so that the rectangle does not lead.

Step II. Attach a sheet of plywood of the appropriate size to the base of the bars. Now you need to try on the hatch to the passage to the attic. It should be 6-7 mm smaller on all sides.

Step III. Provide a lock for the attic door. It can be an automatic mechanism, or the most ordinary latch that can be opened with a pole with a tip.

Step IV. We mount the mechanisms for opening / closing the hatch. If you do not want to buy ready-made mechanisms, you can make them yourself. There should be two fasteners - left and right. For work, purchase a 4x20 mm steel plate and a corner. The photo shows a drawing of the left mounting detail. The right one is mirrored. The sizes are given conditionally. For more accurate calculations, consider your parameters. Before fixing, be sure to check the mechanisms in operation:

IV. We assemble the stairs

You can always order a ready-made sectional ladder from the masters, which you can fix yourself according to the finished scheme. But if you decide to do the work with your own hands to the end, you can assemble a ladder from prepared materials.

Step 1. We mark the places for mounting the steps on the bowstrings. To do this, mark each part with a pencil, according to the selected angle of inclination of the stairs and the calculations made earlier. Now press the ends of the boards tightly together and fasten them with masking tape. This is necessary to drill through holes at the junction of the sections. Drill a hole for a hinge with a diameter of about 25 mm at the junction of the first and second sections. Next, you need to remove the tape and turn the boards over, fastening them again. Now we drill a similar hole at the junction of the second and third sections:

Step 2. Cut the bowstrings along the marked lines. Next, grooves are made for steps on the inside of the bowstrings using a chisel. The depth of the grooves must be at least 5 mm (this should also be taken into account at the first design stage). The lower section of the bowstring should be beveled according to the angle of the stairs.

Step 3. We cut the steps according to the markup and attach them to the left bowstring. We put the steps on glue and fix them with self-tapping screws. We attach the right bowstring and also fasten it with self-tapping screws.

Step 4 We fasten the hinges for the sliding ladder mechanism. Hinges, like hinge mechanisms, can be bought at the store, or made independently from metal tape. We need eight strips of metal (you can use the remains of the door mechanisms). Weld small pieces of the same strip to four strips. We drill two holes in each part (for fastening and hinge). We connect the hinge with the hinges. Now we join the cut sections and apply the hinges so that each hinge falls into the groove (25 mm holes drilled before cutting the sections). We fix the loops on the bowstrings:

V. Final Assembly

Now the top of the finished ladder needs to be fixed to the hatch, after checking the operation of the hinge mechanisms. The ladder should also be checked after installation. After making sure that all the details are in good condition and functional, open the steps with varnish:

And another step-by-step installation guide:

You can insulate and seal the hatch with foam rubber or construction wool. The edges of the hatch should be sheathed with a rubber sealant tape.

That's all, your staircase with a hatch is ready! This is exactly the option that is quite feasible "in one helmet." We wish you fast and easy work.