home railing

Make a folding ladder to the attic with your own hands. How to make a ladder to the attic with your own hands. Assembly of sections and installation of stairs

The space between the ceiling and the roof in private houses occupies attic space. It is used by the owners for storage, provides an opportunity for inspection and repair. inside roofing cake. 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.

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.
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 occupy usable area rooms. Portable models are convenient as a temporary option, but they are not suitable for permanent use due to the increased risk of injury. Best Choice a folding ladder is considered, 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 size 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, for 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. Rugged 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 - 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.

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.
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.
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.
A bar is fixed on the wall under the attic opening, to which the folding structure is attached.
For secure fixation in the folded position, a loop is screwed in near the cutting 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, they crash into it door latch. 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.

Places for fastening according to the template are marked on the metal strip.
Holes are drilled for a bolt with a diameter of 10.
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.
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.
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.
Having inserted bolts into the second mechanism, it is equalized according to the model, cutting off excess metal.
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 general design with loops. 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

In most private houses, attics and attics are operated premises. And to get to the basement, of course, you need a staircase.

Types of attic stairs - device and construction types

Attic stairs can be located both outside and inside the building. The advantage of the second option is ease of use. You don't have to go outside to get to the attic, which is in winter time year is very important. In addition, in the absence of access to the street, the attic does not come into contact with cold air, which significantly reduces heat loss.

By type of construction, the following types of attic stairs are distinguished:

Monolithic:
- screw;
- marching.
Folding loft ladders:
- scissor;
- folding or lever;
- telescopic or sliding ladders;
- folding.
Portable:
- ladders;
- attached.

Portable stairs are usually used as a temporary option for connecting floors. They are used during the construction of a house or to access attic spaces that are rarely used. They are not safe.

The most convenient, of course, are the traditional monolithic stairs, with a wide march and railings. But it is far from always possible to place a massive structure leading to the attic - there may simply not be enough space.

In this case, retractable attic stairs will be the best option. They are quite convenient and safe, easy to use and take up very little space. A wide variety of designs will allow you to choose the option that suits you.

Folding ladder-transformer

Attic folding stairs are made of wood and metal (aluminum). The combination of these materials gives the best results. A flight of stairs is made of wood to reduce the weight of the structure, and springs, mechanisms and fasteners are made of metal to ensure the rigidity of the product. Of course, there are also purely metal models.

For wooden models, hardwoods should be used. The thickness of the beam must be at least 2 cm. The tree should not be used when the folding ladder is used too intensively, because this leads to rapid wear. In this case, the best option is a metal attic ladder.

Plastic fittings are also used to prevent friction of components during transformation and seal the opening when the product is folded. The manhole cover is filled with polystyrene foam and provides good thermal insulation.

Folding attic stairs can be opened both manually and automatically, using an electric drive. Often, with a manual drive, a load is attached to the mechanism, which greatly facilitates the assembly process, as if tightening the ladder into a niche and, conversely, smoothly lowers it, compensating for the weight of the product.

The main requirements for such products are compact dimensions and strength. The aesthetics of the model is also important - a good transformer staircase should merge with the ceiling.

Standard dimensions of attic stairs:

the width of the stairs. The optimal width is about 65 cm;
ladder height. It is not recommended to use a product with a height of more than three and a half meters, because then the rigidity of the structure suffers, and a fall from such a height can lead to serious injury. The process of lowering or raising it will also be inconvenient. In this case, you still have to opt for a monolithic staircase;
number of steps. Usually equal to 14 or 15;
distance between steps. It is believed that the optimal step width is 19.3 cm. With a larger or smaller value, the stairs will be inconvenient to use;
the thickness of the steps is in the range from 18 to 22 mm;
the angle of the stairs. The standard value is considered to be a value from 60 to 75 degrees. With a greater slope, it will be dangerous to use the stairs, with a smaller slope, the product will take up too much space;
folding attic ladder must withstand a weight of at least 150 kg;
steps should be parallel to the floor and not slip, or anti-slip pads should be glued to the steps.

When buying folding attic stairs, it is necessary to take into account that the product parameters must match the dimensions of the hatch cover, otherwise, the folding parts will touch the opening. The hatch is considered optimal, in which it is built sliding ladder 70 cm wide and 120 cm long. With a smaller opening, it is inconvenient to climb. If the dimensions of the hatch are too large, then large heat losses are possible. Since the attic is an unheated room, it is necessary to provide good heat and vapor barrier.

When choosing the angle of inclination of the stairs to the attic, it is important to consider what less angle, the more it is necessary to make the dimensions of the attic hatch and the more space the ladder takes when unfolded.

Sliding attic stairs - retractable marches to the attic

scissor ladder
As a rule, they are made entirely of metal. They also bear the name "accordion staircase", which has taken root due to the fact that the structure is folded in the form of an accordion. And the transformation mechanism resembles a sliding tram current collector and is shaped like a parallelogram or an oval.

A retractable staircase to the attic has one drawback inherent in cheap models. Due to the fact that the structure is completely made of metal, with poor-quality assembly or over time, the flight of stairs begins to creak. This can be avoided by periodically lubricating the retractable ladder.

Telescopic ladders

The telescopic ladder consists of many retractable sections that fold into one another. Made from aluminum for light weight and rigidity. In the domestic market, a sliding attic ladder is quite rare and is not very popular.

Folding stairs to the attic - sectional and articulated

Folding stairs can consist of two, three or four sections, depending on the design. The first knee has a length equal to the dimensions of the hatch cover, and is rigidly fixed to it. The other two segments open up and form an even flight of stairs. Sectional stairs are so mobile thanks to special hinges and hinges.

Reclining ladder

If you really love order, suffer from a panicky lack of space, and you have a second floor or attic, a folding staircase can be a great option to meet all your needs at once. The idea is this: most of the time, the structure is folded and fixed to the wall, and only in the evening, when you need to go up to the bedroom, you put it forward.

The steps are attached to the bowstring with card loops. When folded, the structure is fixed on the wall. The reclining design is not very popular because of its complexity, but later in the article we will still tell you how to do it yourself.

Do-it-yourself attic folding stairs

Option number 1 - a simple design of 2 sections

Do-it-yourself attic stairs are made within 2-3 hours. To make an attic ladder we need:

hacksaw for woodworking;
measuring tape;
stairs, the height of which will be about 30 cm more than the distance to the ceiling;
four card loops as wide as a kosour;
two bars, the length of which is equal to the width of the hatch and two more bars, longer than the first, by about 20 cm. The thickness of the bars is 2-3 cm;
self-tapping screws, anchors, hook and eyelet.

We fasten one of the short bars to the upper end of the ladder with the help of loops, the other is rigidly fixed to the bottom. Two slats are attached to the flight of stairs obliquely so that they do not interfere with movement. They will give the whole structure rigidity.

Next, we measure 2/3 of the length of the stairs and make a neat cut. Then we connect both parts with the help of loops. It is important to attach the hinges with the correct side so that the ladder folds in the correct direction, as shown in the photo.

The upper bar is fixed to the wall immediately under the hatch. So that the folding ladder to the attic does not open, it is fixed to the wall with a hook. The eyelet is screwed into the kosour next to the cut, and the hook is fixed to the wall.

The disadvantage of this model is that it remains in sight. This can be avoided by using a product of a more complex design, in which the sections are attached to the hatch cover. Let's see if it is possible to make such an attic ladder with your own hands.

Option number 2 - a hatch to the attic with a ladder

We will tell you how to make a ladder to the attic, consisting of 3 sections, which is identical in design to those sold in stores. Here is such a folding attic ladder we should succeed.

How to make a hatch to the attic with your own hands - the basis of a folding ladder

You can make a hatch to the attic from improvised means. First, we will determine the location and size of the opening, and then we will make a hatch. Let's say the size of the stairway is 125 by 70 cm. Then, in order to cut out the hatch, you should add 7-8 mm to these dimensions on each side. These gaps will allow the lid to close easily, but will not affect the thermal insulation.

From the material you will need:

four bars 50 × 50 mm - two short and two long;
10mm plywood sheet (in our case, two panels are used - unfortunately, there was no solid sheet at hand).

At the ends of the bars we make cuts in half the thickness, coat with glue and fix with self-tapping screws, after checking the diagonals. In order for the diagonal not to go away, you should use temporary scarves made of 4 mm plywood. After, we remove them and already fasten a sheet of 10 mm plywood (the photo shows how the sheet is fixed along the perimeter with PSh screws). Next, try on the opening.

In order for the hatch to close well and there are no locks outside, we cut a door latch into the lid. Our packaging said "reinforced". To open the latch, we will use an old handle (you can use any device in the form of a cylinder), which is inserted into a special hole. The latch holds the hatch well, very convenient.

Attic ladder mechanism with hatch - articulated without spring

The turn has come to the most difficult - the opening mechanisms. All components, of course, can be bought in the store, but we will go the hard way and do everything ourselves.

To begin with, let's draw on cardboard a drawing of an attic staircase with an approximate angle at which the hatch should open. Cut out the cardboard parts and try on the design. Thus, you can quite accurately choose the length of the hinges.

I think everyone in the garage will find iron corners, trim strips and pieces of sheet metal, in general, everything that can be used to make a mechanism for a ladder. For one mechanism we need:

one corner;
piece of sheet metal;
two strips of different lengths.

We mark the holes for the hinges, the distances of which we previously estimated empirically, and drill them under the M10 bolt. Assemble together without tightening the bolts too much. With a small one, we measure the desired opening angle of the hatch and push the future mechanism to the selected angle. We mark on the metal the area that, when opened, overlaps the corner and cut it out with a jigsaw.

We bring the strips of metal into the proper form, cutting off the excess length and rounding the ends. So they will not touch the corner and interfere with each other. We assemble the whole mechanism again. After we removed part of the metal, the corner began to abut and stop in the desired position.

So, one mechanism is ready, now we proceed to the manufacture of the second. It is very important that it turns out exactly the same, but in a mirror version. To do this, we fasten each pair of parts with clamps and drill the necessary holes.

After one hole is cut out, insert a bolt into it and drill the second one.

Then, twisting both parts with bolts, we level them in length.

In this way we make all the parts.

The output should be two completely identical mechanisms.

Now we will install the mechanisms on the hatch and try it on in the stairwell. It turned out that even when designing the unit, we made a mistake - we did not take into account the height of the fastening on the floor beam. That is, the part simply got out of the overlap. Because of what we had to install temporary bars.

We adjust the hatch so that it opens well and does not touch the walls of the opening.

Now let's make another simple mechanism to support the whole structure. We need two strips of metal 20 mm wide and a corner. To do this, we weld a piece of metal to the end of one of the strips, into which the second strip will abut. From the corner we make a support platform.

The result should be a hinge, which, when opening the hatch, remains slightly bent and at the same time holds the load. Subsequently, this node will need to be installed in such a way that it is fully expanded when the mechanisms made earlier are opened to the maximum. Then the load that the hinged ladder creates will be equally distributed between them.

Do-it-yourself wooden staircase on bowstrings

Do-it-yourself staircase to the attic is constructed from wooden planks. We will cut the bowstring and steps from an inch board 100 mm wide. The length of the first section is made according to the size of the hatch, the second is the same or slightly less than the first, but taking into account the fact that it should not touch the ceiling during the transformation process. The third section is equal to the distance that is left to the floor.

We measure the angle of inclination of the hatch in the open position with a small one and transfer it to the board, thereby marking the steps. Next, mark the length of the sections.

Pressing the boards tightly against each other and fastening them with molar tape, we transfer all the markings to the second board (the lines should be in mirror image). Using a pen at 25, we drill a hole where the hinge hinge will subsequently be located.

Now attention, we made the mistake of drilling both holes on the same side, because the second recess should be on the outside of the boards, as noted in the photo.

For a more aesthetic look, we grind all the edges with a milling cutter.

On the bowstrings of the stairs we make small recesses (5 mm) for the steps. Using glue and PSh screws, we collect all the details together. It should turn out just like in the photo.

Many want to live in a comfortable country house with attic room or attic. When designing and building such housing, the question arises of a convenient and safe ascent to the second floor. Therefore, it is worth considering in more detail the nuances of making stairs for the attic.

Peculiarities

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

One of the most simple options is the attic staircase located outside the house. It is elementary to make it, but in cold weather it will not 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 a staircase project to the attic from the inside.

The attic space can be used in different ways. It can serve as a full-fledged living room, be a workshop, storage room. Depending on its purpose, it is worth choosing the type of attic stairs. If access to the attic is required several times during the season, then you can get by with the simplest folding model made of wood or aluminum, and if there is a bedroom or a nursery on top, then you should definitely make a durable and comfortable design with a hatch and railings.

The task of making an attic staircase with your own hands for an experienced craftsman is not too difficult, the main thing is to choose its type, shape, location in advance and pre-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 also be built in any other residential area.

Kinds

All types of attic stairs can be divided into portable and stationary. Portable options are ordinary ladders that are attached to the attic hatch and used for their intended purpose. Constantly going up and down them will not bring much convenience, especially for children or the elderly, and they are also unsafe. Their advantage lies in the fact that they are easy to manufacture, do not take up much space in the room, if they are not in demand, then they can simply be removed to any free space.

Portable stairs are most often used as temporary (during construction or repair), 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 give 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 this height is usually not required, for a floor height of 2.5–3 m, two sections are sufficient.

A folding attic ladder according to the mechanism of its disassembly can be:

retractable;
scissor;
lever;
folding.

A sliding attic ladder made of aluminum is good because it easily unfolds to the desired length and is securely fixed, and when folded it takes up very little space, it can be leaned against a wall or put 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 a homemade ladder with a folding part. It can be mounted on a ceiling door or hatch, then it can be easily folded back and unfolded. There can be 2-3 sections, in the unfolded state it turns out to be rigid and stationary. Hardwood is used for mounting its frame and steps, and metal parts are used for fastening and folding mechanism. With a competent design and careful work, such a design can be automatic, very convenient and completely safe.

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

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

A very common option is monolithic stairs, that is, not folding and not portable. Such lifting structures, although they take up more space, are strong, do not need 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 with maximum benefit.

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

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 that have wooden steps. Most often they are made 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 and wooden. For sliding and folding structures, it is better to use metal, which will wear out less with constant friction of parts.

The most commonly chosen material is aluminum, which is light, strong and does not corrode.

Stair 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 choose hardwoods: 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 a wooden monolithic staircase, only ordinary nails are needed to fasten parts. For sliding or reclining ceiling options, more complex components will be required. To open the attic hatch, you will need metal corners and strips, hinges, hinges, bolts or self-tapping screws. The number of parts is selected depending on the length of the stairs and the number of sections.

Mounting

As an example of making a comfortable and safe staircase to the attic, consider the device of a folding model of three sections, which leans up onto the skylight. It can be built independently in almost any country house with wooden ceilings up to 280 cm high.

Step by step it is made in several stages.

First you need to make an attic hatch. The ceiling opening can be of any size, for example, 80x70 cm. The hatch itself should open easily and withstand the design of the folded ladder. For its manufacture, bars of 5x5 cm and plywood 1 cm thick are taken. The bars, cut to the size of the opening, are connected with glue and self-tapping screws; for rigidity, the frame can be strengthened with metal corners. Then plywood is nailed to it with thin nails.
Next, you need to install the hatch on the ceiling with the help of hinges so that it opens and closes easily and smoothly. At this stage, it is important to correctly select and mount the hinge mechanism. There should be enough space in the attic for the folded 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 the layers of plywood, sheathing the edges with a rubber seal so that there are no gaps.

After that, you need to make the stairs themselves. For her, a board of 2x10 cm is taken, sections of the desired length are cut. The steps must be fixed not at a right angle, but at an angle in accordance with the angle of inclination of the ladder itself, that is, when unfolded, they must lie horizontally.
Further, the sections are fastened with metal hinges in such a way that the whole structure can be easily moved apart and folded. The assembled ladder 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 wooden house, which you can do yourself - this is a stationary monolithic structure with one span. A place for it should be chosen in the corner of the room, so that one side of the flight of stairs rests on the wall. Since the climb will be quite steep, it is best to provide the stairs with wooden railings. For the frame and steps, 10 cm wide inch boards are selected.

Steps are sawn 650 cm wide, the step between them should be 10-15 cm, the length will depend on the height of the ceiling. For railings, you can take polished bars 5x5 cm. Installation takes place on anchors or screws. If necessary, a hatch is mounted on the attic opening, which opens with 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 mount a wooden staircase with one section longer than 3.5 m, since its rigidity suffers, the structure has a risk of collapse. In a private house with high ceilings, it is better to use a monolithic version with 2-3 spans. If the floor height is high and there is not enough space, then there is a good option spiral staircase. But such structures are not very convenient, there is a high risk of falling.

The stairs 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 a warm climate, or if it is used irregularly. Often such projects are used in houses with an attic for an additional entrance to the upper room. If the ability to build a solid and beautiful internal structure does not allow, and you need to use the attic regularly, then you can create the simplest temporary street option.

For ease of use, steps should have a step of no more than 20 cm, but they should not be placed too often. The optimal height is 19.3 cm.

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

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

The calculation shows that the optimal length of the steps should 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 ladder must support a weight of 150 kg. The width of the steps should be at least 20 cm, then it will be convenient to step on them.

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

If it is decided to make such an ascent to the attic completely independently, then it is worth creating detailed drawing with dimensions, calculation of the possible load, make an estimate, including building materials for the frame, steps and railings, fittings and fasteners, insulation for the hatch.

Unlike railings, steps should not be made of smooth, polished wood. In this case, the surface will be very slippery and there is a high risk of falling, especially with a steep or helical version. If, however, the wood is too smooth, then it is best to provide steps with anti-slip stickers.

Successful examples and options

The scissor ladder to the attic is easy to install, 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 ladders and stools are required.

Beautiful option a monolithic wooden structure with original steps can be made and assembled with your own hands.

1 Design requirements
2 Varieties
3 Dimensions
4 Site selection
5 Measurements
6 Material selection
7 Form
8 Getting Started
9 Two-section ladder
9.1 Manufacturing technology
10 Making a folding ladder on bowstrings
11 Videos
12 Photos
13 Schemes

If in the near future you intend to convert the attic into a functional room, then before starting work, think about where to install the stairs and how to make it. A ceiling door or hatch will also be installed here. You can order or buy such a design, but let's find out how to make a staircase to the attic with your own hands. So, you will considerably save the family budget and acquire new skills that may well be useful to you in the future.

Previously, attic stairs were made outside, but hardly anyone will be pleased with the prospect of climbing into this room across the street in frost or rain. Many people in the attic have a ceiling door, most often in the hallway, and if necessary to climb into the attic, they use a ladder. But this is also inconvenient if you have to do in the attic, for example, an office or a rest room. For a civilized person, a better choice would be to install a stationary or folding ladder. If you do not have room for the first option, then the second will suit you very well.

Design requirements

Design requirements

Whatever version of the stairs you choose, it must comply with safety requirements. The design must provide a safe passage to the attic and be strong enough. Spiral staircases take up relatively little space and are highly attractive, however, it will be very difficult for older people to climb this design.

If the area of the corridor or hallway where the staircase will be installed allows, then it is better to make an opening wide enough so that a good stationary staircase can be installed.

The larger the opening under the stairs to the attic, the greater the heat loss, if, of course, we are not talking about a heated attic.

Stationary ladder

Handrails and railings provide sufficient safety for a person climbing stairs. Therefore, if possible, then make a design with these elements. Since in our case we are talking about self-manufacturing stairs, it is also important to process it by special means that increase the fire resistance of the structure. This is especially true in the manufacture wooden stairs.

The carrying capacity indicator should not be small, since if it is necessary to lift a heavy load into the attic, its own weight must also be taken into account. So, the optimal load capacity is 260 kg.

Varieties

Varieties

Attic stairs are divided into the following types:

Monolithic. They can be marching and screw.
Folding. There are lever, scissor, folding, sliding or telescopic.
Portable ladders or ladders.

Portable types of stairs are a temporary option for connecting floors. If you plan to use the attic in rare cases, then an attached structure is the best option. But when arranging an attic space for a recreation area or for children to play, you need to make a more reliable staircase.

Ladder

Most often, there is no place for the arrangement of a massive structure in residential buildings. Therefore, it is not surprising that retractable stairs and their folding counterparts are most in demand in the arrangement of the attic. They take up little space, are safe and convenient, and easy to use.

Dimensions

The attic staircase has standard parameters, following which you can make a really reliable and easy-to-use design:

The width of the march should be 65-110 cm.
The height of the stairs is up to 3.5 m. This is due to the fact that a fall from such or a greater height is fraught with injury, and the rigidity of a high structure will be much less.
The average number of steps is 15.
Riser height - 19 cm.
The thickness of the steps is 1.8-2.2 cm.
The angle of inclination ranges from 60 to 75º. This is because an angle less than 60º will require a lot of space, and an angle greater than 75º is dangerous to use.
If you have to make a folding ladder, then it must withstand weight up to 150 kg.
Steps should not be slippery. They are installed parallel to the floor.

Location selection

Location selection

If you have to make the stairs yourself, then it is important to determine the installation location of the stairs - inside or outside, if you choose the first option, then in which room will the opening be made to climb to the attic? It is important that the stairs do not interfere with the household. Therefore, installing it in the kitchen or in the bedroom is not cost-effective.

If the attic space is not being used intensively, then a ladder to climb into it can be made in the living room. It is better that the stairs to the attic in this case be closed or autonomous. In such a situation, a folding ladder is very a good option.

measurements

If you are making a folding ladder, then take into account its dimensions when folded and unfolded. Take a measurement from the floor of the room in which the ladder will be installed to the ceiling. Decide on the width of the stairs, the number of steps, the angle of inclination. Record all the data on paper, which will help you make the most accurate drawing. Mistakes in calculations can lead to undesirable consequences. For example, the stairs will be inconvenient to use, the risk of injury will increase.

Steps should be parallel to the floor. Doors should not open onto a flight of stairs.

Material selection

Material selection

When making wooden stairs, all parts should be treated with antiseptics to prevent rotting of the finished product. After assembly, it will be possible to paint the structure with any varnish / paint that suits the color. Usually attic stairs are made of pine. This material is chosen by most homemade ones, since wood is easier to work with than metal.

If you still decide to work with metal, then use materials with a galvanized coating. This type of metal does not rust. Such structures are highly durable. So, you can save space, galvanized elements are thin, and therefore do not take up much space.

To prevent metal elements from rubbing against each other, plastic parts should be used. Thus, due to the interchangeable side plastic inserts, slipping will be prevented.

The form

The peculiarity of the attic stairs is the shape. It should be ergonomic, compact, comfortable and convenient. In a small room, the overall design will look ridiculous. In a sufficiently large room - there are no restrictions, you want to install a compact staircase, but you want to make a stationary massive one.

It depends on the available space and personal preferences whether the staircase will be one-, two- or three-flight. If from floor to ceiling is no more than 3 m, then it is quite possible to get by with the simplest single-march design. But, if you want to be more original, then make a staircase consisting of two flights.

To make a single-march design look more interesting, make it arched. Steps can be made in the form of diverging rays.

Beginning of work

Beginning of work

If you have taken measurements and outlined the drawings, then it's time to draw up an estimate of materials. So, so that you can independently make an attic wooden staircase, you should stock up:

Screws.
Screwdrivers.
Roulette.
Wood saw.
Set of wrenches.
Mounting foam.
Goniometer.
Hinges.

As a base, side and vertical beams are used, which serve as a support for the stairs. The value of permissible loads on the structure depends entirely on the strength of the foundation.

Two-section ladder

Two-section ladder

One section of this design is folded up. When assembled, the two-section ladder is not hidden, but remains in sight. This is allowed if access to the attic is arranged in a garage or other workroom. When decorating a house in the appropriate style, a two-section staircase will also look good in the corridor. To make it, you will need the following materials:

Roulette.
Ordinary wooden stairs.
Wood saw.
4 bars having a thickness of 2-3 cm, 2 of them should correspond to the width of the hatch, and 2 should be 20 cm longer than the hatch.
4 things. card loops corresponding to the width of the stringer.
Fasteners.

Kosour is the basis of the stairs on which the steps are laid.

Manufacturing technology

Manufacturing technology

First you need to connect a short bar with loops to the upper end of the stairs, another similar bar should be rigidly fixed to the bottom of the stairs. So that in the end the design is reliable, take 2 slats and nail them obliquely from the back of the flight of stairs. In this case, these actions should be carried out so that these reinforcing rails do not interfere with movement up the stairs.

After that, you need to measure 2/3 of the total length of the structure. Measurements are taken from below. In the intended place, a ladder should be cut. These parts of the structure will subsequently be connected by card loops, which are attached to the back of the stairs. Thus, the structure can be easily folded.

The top bar is fixed under the hatch. Thanks to the hook and loop, your staircase will not open arbitrarily. So, the hook needs to be attached to the wall, and the loop to the bar.

Making a folding ladder on bowstrings

Making a folding ladder on bowstrings

The manufacturing process of a folding ladder consists of the following steps:

Divide the height from the floor to the attic hatch into 3 parts. In this case, the first part should be the same as the size of the hatch, the second - a little less, and the third - should cover the remaining distance to the floor.

Now you need to measure the angle of the hatch with a small one.

Transfer the corner to the blanks under the stairs, which will allow you to mark the steps.

Drill holes between the sections for subsequent mounting of the hinge.

Sand all elements.

In places where the hinges are installed, the boards are sawn.

Cut and sand steps.

Make recesses in the bowstrings for installing steps.

Insert the steps into the bowstrings, putting them on the glue, and then tightening them with self-tapping screws.

Connect the sections with loops. To properly perform this stage of work, place the sections on a flat plane.

Check section functionality.

Assemble the structure and temporarily install it in the hatch. If it turned out that the ladder needs to be adjusted a little under the hatch, then do it.

Now sand the ladder and open it with varnish in several layers. In this case, the next can be applied only after the previous layer has completely dried.

After the varnish has dried, install the ladder in the hatch.

To speed up the process of making an attic ladder, do all the work with a partner. This will also help prevent injury when working at height.

The main points for the manufacture of attic wooden stairs have been described in this article. If you have questions on the topic, be sure to ask our expert. Would you like to add to the article or provide useful additional recommendations? Leave your comments.

In the provided video, you can learn about other intricacies of making attic stairs:

The photo shows several options for attic stairs:

Staircase to the attic from the street

Staircase above the entrance

original staircase

Folding ladder

Stationary ladder

Types of folding stairs

Calculation of a spiral staircase

Ladder drawing

Scheme of a wooden staircase

Ladder scheme

Scheme for determining the height and slope of the stairs

In most cases, the attic is used to store unused and old things. In past times, few people could dare to use it for living space. Today, in pursuit of everyone square meter many rebuild the attic space, making a living room. Accordingly, the attic ladder in this case plays a key role. In this article, we will look at the manufacture of this piece of furniture from different angles, and find out what types of stairs to the attic exist.

Devices and types of structures

Stairs are installed both outside and inside the house. The last option has much more advantages. To get into the attic, you do not need to go through the yard. There are several types of staircase designs:

Monolithic.

Marching.

Folding attic stairs.

Folding.
Scissor.
Telescopic.
Folding or lever.

Portable.

Attached.
Stepladders.

As for the latter option, such stairs are often used as temporary structures. For example, they are applicable in cases where the attic does not have to be used so often. Portable ladders are not so reliable.

If we talk about reliability, then here, of course, monolithic stairs should be noted, which have a wide march and reliable railings. But if you have a small room, then it will be almost impossible to accommodate it. In such circumstances perfect option stairs are retractable. It is easy to operate, safe and ergonomic.

Ladder-transformer folding

Mostly, the transformer ladder is made of metal or wood. If these two materials are combined, then the result will be very worthy. For example, a flight of stairs is made of wood, and important components are made of metal: fastening, mechanism and springs. Wood will lighten the entire structure, and metal will add strength. For the manufacture of wooden elements, it is better to use hardwoods.

In some situations, you can use plastic fittings. In the process of transformation, the plastic levels friction. According to the opening method, folding stairs are manual and automatic. A weight is attached to the ladder for easy manual opening.

The main requirements for folding attic stairs are compact dimensions and strength. The aesthetic appearance of the building also plays an important role.

Retractable ladder with retractable flights

Scissor ladders are very popular. Its production is carried out only from metal parts. In another way, it is called "accordion". But they have a number of negative qualities. For example, after a while, the flight of stairs will make an unpleasant creak, as some parts will wear out. But this can be prevented by timely lubrication of each working connection.

telescopic ladder

This type of construction consists of sections that are retractable. When folded, it takes up little space, as the parts are assembled one into the other. They are mostly made from aluminium. The telescopic ladder has high durability.

Sectional and hinged

It can have 1-4 sections. The first is fixed on the lid. Subsequent sections are interconnected and form a uniform flight of stairs. They are equipped with hinges and special hinges.

folding

If you do not have free space, a folding ladder has clear advantages. In most cases, it is folded into the wall. It can be pulled out if necessary. Using card loops, the steps are fixed on a bowstring. When it is folded, it hides against the wall.

General requirements for attic stairs

It should be mentioned about the standard dimensions of such structures:

The permissible march width is 650 mm.
It is not recommended to make a ladder more than 3000 mm in height. This will result in less structural rigidity, resulting in an accident. Among other things, too high a design will be problematic to fold.
Steps in the amount of 13 to 15 pieces.
Between the steps there should be a gap of no more than 19.3 cm. Otherwise, the operation of the stairs will be difficult.
The step should have a thickness of 1.8 to 2.2 cm.
The standard tilt angle is 60–75°.
The entire structure must withstand a weight of up to one hundred and fifty kilograms.
The location of the steps is only parallel to the floor. For complete safety, they can be glued with anti-slip pads.

Separately, it should be noted the size of the hatch. The standard size is 120 × 70 cm. If the opening is smaller, then it will be inconvenient to climb. With large hatch sizes, there will be large heat losses. If your attic will not be heated, then the hatch must be steam and heat insulated.

Location of attic stairs

The stairs should not interfere with living in the house. For this reason, installing stairs in the kitchen or in the bedroom would be impractical. Therefore, it can be placed, for example, in a corridor, a hall. The selected room must be of the appropriate size. In some cases, such stairs are used as an interior detail, so in some cases it can not be hidden. It is recommended to make a preliminary drawing to represent the staircase in your interior.

Production of a ladder from two sections

If you want to make a simple staircase without complex mechanisms, then a two-section staircase is ideal. To make it you will need:

Wood saw.
Roulette.
Ladder.
Card loops along the width of the stringer - 4 pieces.
Timber - 2 pieces 2–3 cm thick. The length should be equal to the width of the hatch.
Hinges, screws, hook and anchor.

With the help of a loop, a short beam is fixed to the upper end of the stairs. The second, similar segment of the bar, on the bottom. They must be fixed obliquely, otherwise they will interfere with the movement. Such a design will be quite rigid. After, measure out 2/3 of the stairs and make a neat cut. Using metal loops, connect the two parts.

The hinges must be properly fastened, otherwise the ladder will open in the wrong direction.

Now, on the wall under the hatch, mount the top bar. To prevent the ladder from opening when folded, you can use a hook. To do this, screw the loop next to the cut, and the hook at the appropriate distance into the wall. Attic two-section ladder is ready!

One of the disadvantages of this design is that it is always in sight. But if you make a little more effort, then with your own hands you can build a ladder that will be hidden in the hatch.

We hide the ladder behind the hatch

This type of ladder has three sections, but in this case it will be successfully located in the hatch. First of all, decide on its location. For example, the opening has dimensions of 120 × 65 cm. Then, to prevent heat loss, the hatch should be cut 7–8 mm wider on each side. To work, you will need the following material:

A bar with a section of 50 × 50 mm - 2 long and 2 short.
Plywood, 10 mm thick.
Plywood, 4 mm thick, for making scarves.
PVA glue.
Self-tapping screws.

At the end of each bar, make a drank halfway through its thickness. After these places, coat with glue and connect everything together in a groove into a rectangle. For strength between themselves, you can additionally twist with self-tapping screws. To get the exact diagonal out of 4 mm plywood, cut a scarf.

When the glue is dry, dismantle the scarves and fasten the 10 mm plywood sheet with self-tapping screws. Now try on the design in the opening. If everything fits, then the measurements were taken accurately.

For an aesthetic look, cut a door latch into the lid. With the help of a screwed handle, it will be possible to open the hatch on the latch.

Mechanism for stairs with a hatch - articulated without spring

One of the important components of a folding attic ladder is the opening mechanism. The easiest method is to buy it. But if you want to save the family budget, you can do it yourself.

For this you will need:

Corner - 1 piece.
Piece of metal sheet.
Two strips of different lengths.
Bolts M10.
Drill.
Malka.
Jigsaw.
Teskey.
Clamps.

Manufacturing technology:

The first step is a drawing on the cardboard stairs. In this case, the approximate angle of its inclination in the open state should be indicated.
Now cut out an example of construction and individual parts from cardboard. This will allow you to choose the correct hinge length.
On metal strips, measure the holes for the hinge. Distances are measured according to preliminary measurements. The hole is made for the M10 bolt.
You collect these parts together and slightly tighten.
Now measure the desired angle using the bevel. Then move the mechanism to the desired angle.
On the metal, mark the area that, when opened, will overlap with a corner. Cut it out with a jigsaw.
At this stage, you give the stripes a presentation. Round off the corners and trim off any excess. This will allow them not to cling to each other and, accordingly, not to interfere with each other.
After removing excess metal, the corner will rest in the desired position. The first mechanism is ready!
To prepare the second mechanism, fasten each pair of parts together with clamps. This will make an identical part. Drill holes.
Insert a bolt into the finished hole and drill a second one.
Having twisted the blanks with two bolts, level them in length and give the same shape.

By this principle, you make all parts of the mechanism. As a result, you will be able to make two identical parts of the mechanism.

When the mechanisms are ready, they should be attached to the hatch that was made earlier. In this case, you should try on the hatch with mechanisms to the opening.

In the open position, the hatch should not touch the walls of the opening. If necessary, it can be adjusted. In order for the whole structure to be well held, another one should be made. important detail. To do this, take two strips, the width of which is 2 cm, as well as a corner. To the end of one of the strips, weld a small piece of metal. A corner will act as a support platform.

So, you will make a hinge that, in the open position, will bend slightly, but at the same time withstand the entire load. Among other things, it must be fully disclosed. This will evenly distribute the load created by the hinged ladder.

Staircase made of wood on bowstrings

Let's make a ladder out of wood. Take an inch board, ten centimeters wide. It is useful for making bowstrings and steps. The first section is made exactly along the length of the hatch, the second is similar, and the third is slightly smaller. As for the last section, its length should be equal to the remaining distance between the floor and the two sections when unfolded. Here you will also need to use small. Measure the slope of the angle of the ladder in its unfolded state. Transfer these measurements to the board and mark the steps. This is done on two long sections. These lines should be applied evenly on two boards. To do this, they can be fastened with tape. The applied lines should be mirrored. In places where there will be hinge loops, drill 25 holes with a pen.

The holes should be on both sides of the boards, so first make holes on the inside, and then on the outside. Grind each hole with a milling cutter.

This will give the blanks an aesthetic look. Saw the boards at the junctions of the segments.

Cut the required number of steps, sand them. For each step on the bowstring, make small holes of 5 mm. Assemble the entire structure with PVA glue and self-tapping screws.

Making metal loops

To connect the sections of the march, loops should also be made. Thanks to their presence, the ladder will fold and unfold, respectively. For this purpose, it will be necessary to take a metal strip 2.5 cm wide. You will need eight such strips. To four of them, weld a small piece of a similar strip. In each of them, make holes that will be used to attach the stairs.

Now lay the first and second segment of the stairs on a flat surface. The joint between them must be sufficiently tight. Screw the hinge so that the hinge bolt fits into the recess in the center of the connected sections. On the other hand, the edge of the bowstring will be a guide. After screwing on the two hinges, check the ladder for bending. If everything is working properly, use the same example to connect the third segment.

Installation of a folding structure in the opening

Now there is very little left. When all the parts you made are finished and interconnected, you can proceed with installation in the opening.

First of all, treat all metal parts with a metal primer, spray paint and apply two coats of varnish to the wooden elements.

When the whole structure is dry, it remains to fix it with anchors in the opening to the attic. After a lot of work, the folding ladder is ready! You can find photo instructions at the end of the article.

How to make a folding attic ladder?

You can climb to the attic or to the attic made by you using a folding ladder. To do this, you will need the following building material:

For the manufacture of a bowstring 2 boards. Thickness 30 mm, width 200 mm. The length directly depends on the angle of inclination of the stairs and the height of the ceiling.
Boards for steps. Width 120 mm, thickness 30 mm, length 500 mm.
There are two card loops for each step.
Self-tapping screws.
Anker.
Hook for fixing the structure on the wall.

For successful assembly of the stairs to the ceiling, the upper edge of the stationary bowstring should not reach 550 mm.

So, all the work is done in the following sequence:

Anchor one bowstring to the wall. The mount itself must be rigid, since the entire structure will be held on it.
Mark out the steps. The position of the first mark parallel to the floor. Spend a segment, the length is equal to the width of the step 120 mm.
Now draw two parallel straight lines through the ends of the segment parallel to the edges of the bowstring.
Then draw a perpendicular from the end of the first segment.
Step back from this line to the right by 10 mm and draw a line parallel to the perpendicular.
The point of intersection of this line with the upper one, which is drawn parallel to the edge of the bowstring, determines the location of the next step. According to this principle, the marking of all subsequent steps is carried out.

To prevent the steps from rubbing against each other when folding, an indent of one centimeter is required between them. Transfer all this markup to the second string and fasten the steps in the marked places. As for the loops, they should be located on a stationary bowstring so that they eventually raise the steps up, and lower the movable bowstring down. Accordingly, a hook is mounted on the wall in suitable places. This is perhaps the easiest and fastest method of making a folding loft ladder.

Small business

So, we have considered with you several options for making attic stairs with your own hands. Of course, at first it may seem that this is an unthinkable task, but with effort and diligence, everything can be done. Leave your comments on this article and share your impressions!