Folding steps. Folding stairs to the attic: pros and cons

Any room in the house can and should be equipped in an optimal way for the people living there. This also applies to the attic. Attic staircase made with your own hands becomes an excellent example correct use space and forces for organizing space indoors.

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

Classic look retractable ladder to the attic

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

DIY folding ladder to the attic

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Standard sizes

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

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

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

Drawing

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

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

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

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

Installed frame and mounted hatch in open position

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

Installation of steps on bases

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

Metal hinges for connecting structural elements

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

Staircase of several sections in assembled condition

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

Attic ladder mechanism with hatch - hinged without spring

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stair options

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

— folding ladder on hinges

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

Folding ladder on hinges

- simple wooden staircase

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

- two-piece folding ladder

An attic ladder option that is suitable for small height premises or a type of simplified design.

Folding ladder

- sliding attic ladder - retractable flights to the attic

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

Sliding staircase

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

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

Stairs from the street

Photo gallery of attic stairs

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

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

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

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

Climbing into the attic or attic can be made very convenient. The most suitable option for this would be attic folding stairs, which combine compactness with practicality.

Peculiarities

The main feature of folding staircase structures is their compactness. It is thanks to it that you can free up maximum space, which is often so lacking. Most of the time it is folded and does not interfere with movement at all, preserving the beauty of the interior.

Modern stairs to the attic look even more attractive when unfolded. They can easily transform any space, making it more interesting. With all this, folding stairs cope with their main functions perfectly.

Folding ladders are made from various materials and have many subspecies, which allows you to easily choose the most suitable option. Moreover, all models of stairs are easy to use. Modern attic ladders are very easy to reach and secure in the desired position.

Retractable staircase structures are especially popular in private homes, where constant access to the attic is a necessity. They are much more convenient than stepladders or transformers, which need to be carried and installed, which is very difficult.

Another feature of the attic structure is that it is easy to make yourself. Moreover, even an old wooden staircase can be turned into a comfortable attic.

Advantages and disadvantages

There are a lot of advantages to folding stairs to the attic, so first of all It is worth highlighting the main or brightest of them:

The compactness of folding staircase structures is one of their main advantages. Moreover, such stairs can take up a minimum of space in any form: folded and unfolded.
The ease of use of a folding ladder is undeniable. It literally “invisibly” waits for the hour of use. Then in a matter of seconds it can be unfolded and used for its intended purpose. At the same time, convenience and safety can be increased with the help of railings or overlays on metal steps.

The lightness of the staircase structure is a huge plus, because sometimes a fragile girl needs to cope with it. This advantage significantly increases the popularity of folding models, which are much lighter compared to other ladder options.
Ease of use is another advantage. Simply pull it out from under the hatch using special mechanisms, and then it’s also easy to push it back. Installing or completely removing the folding structure is also easy. The steps are so simple that even those who have not done anything similar can do them.
The invisibility of the folding structure when not needed can also be considered one of its main advantages. After all, most stairs are bulky and immediately catch your eye, often disrupting the beauty of the space.
The attractive price is another advantage. Even completely ready-made systems are inexpensive.

Of course, like any other ladder, a folding one has some disadvantages:

A large angle of inclination of a folding ladder is not always convenient, especially if you need to lift quite heavy or large things along it. They are also not suitable if you often have to go up and down into the attic.

The load capacity of folding stairs often does not exceed 150-200 kilograms.

Difficulties self-made Some types of attic structures are due to complex and very precise calculations, as well as the mandatory presence of special tools.

Kinds

Retractable structures can be divided into types or models depending on the type of device, their appearance or the material from which they are made. For example, the type of devices allows us to distinguish the following types:

folding;
folding (leg);
sliding (telescopic, sectional).

It is partly clear from the name that these types of transformers differ in the layout principle. To better understand them, it is worth considering the features of each of these types.

Folding is the most interesting option. This design includes several sections at once, which, when opened, gradually extend to the floor. The movement is carried out due to special hinges and hinges. Card loops on the side allow you to securely fix the structure on the wall when folded. When the staircase is unfolded, its appearance resembles a regular staircase due to its inclination angle of 45 degrees.

Among the disadvantages folding design We should highlight its massiveness, not very attractive appearance and the need for a considerable amount of free space for layout.

The folding design has earned its popularity due to its compact size when folded. The most striking model of such a staircase was the scissor staircase, which is also called an “accordion”. Just by the name, the principle of operation of such a staircase becomes clear. When folded, it looks like a small block, and when unfolded, it unfolds like an accordion. This design unfolds very simply, you just have to pull the bottom step towards you.

The only disadvantage of the model is the unreliability of the interblock fastenings. Scissor models of folding stairs require careful handling and regular lubrication of the mechanisms located between the segments.

Among modern models There are even automatic folding scissor structures that are very convenient to use. No physical effort is required to pull them out.

Sliding transformable structures represent several flights of stairs, stacked or superimposed on one another. Among their advantages, it is worth noting the minimum storage space and low cost compared to other types. Convenience sliding structures is also due to the flat steps on which the foot becomes stable without slipping

Sliding stairs are divided into two types:

Telescopic. Telescopic structures are characterized by the extension of sections, like a nesting doll. It turns out that in tubes with a larger diameter, smaller tubes are attached, and in them even smaller ones. The folded state of the structure is held in place by clamps located on the outside metal beams. To fold the structure, it will be enough just to loosen the latch. This design is extremely simple to unfold. The disadvantage of this model can be considered problems that arise with the clamps over time. Often the metal fasteners jam, and the structure no longer straightens easily.

Sectional. They are somewhat similar to scissor ladders, but in them the segments are stacked on top of each other rather than pressed together. During the unfolding process, the sections are straightened and then fixed in a certain position. The number of sections in such a staircase can be two or even three. This type of staircase requires a stable platform to rest on the floor.

Materials

The materials from which folding stairs are made play a significant role. After all, they must provide staircases with strength, make them light and at the same time inexpensive. If we adequately consider all these important parameters, then it becomes clear that best materials for attic stairs - wood and metal.

Wooden stairs are mainly made from trees coniferous species, for example, pine trees. Their advantages are reliability and low cost. Moreover, such stairs are not difficult to manufacture and assemble independently. Another advantage of such stairs is that they give the interior a special rustic flair.

The disadvantages of wooden attic stairs are due to their massiveness, short service life and low load capacity (up to 100 kilograms).

It is worth considering that in wooden models there are still metal parts. This means they will need additional care eg regular lubrication.

Folding and sectional types stairs

Metal folding stairs are much more common among modern models. Moreover, stairs made of steel or aluminum are absolutely in no way inferior to their wooden counterparts. Price metal stairs not much higher, and the load capacity reaches 200 kilograms. Moreover, such stairs are characterized by high strength, durability, high stability to mechanical influence. Aluminum stairs have one more additional benefit in the form of low weight.

The only disadvantage of metal stairs is the difficulty of making them yourself. This is due to the fact that similar works require welding equipment and appropriate knowledge and skills.

Prominent representatives of metal attic ladders include telescopic and scissor ladders. Moreover, telescopic ones are most often made of aluminum.

Combined models, made simultaneously from wood and metal, are often found and have advantages characteristic of both of these materials.

Dimensions

Regardless of the type of staircase in design or material, it should be as comfortable as possible and at the same time completely safe. When choosing an attic staircase or designing it, it is worth considering a number of parameters:

The flight of stairs should be optimal width, equal to 60 - 70 centimeters.
The structure should have an inclination angle varying from 45 to 75 degrees.
The number of steps on the attic stairs should be optimal. It is best if there are about fifteen of them.
The thickness of the steps is 2 centimeters and is considered the most convenient and suitable for a folding staircase structure.
The steps of the stairs should be located along the entire span at the same distance from each other (within 17-22 centimeters).
The horizontal part of the step must be at least 20 centimeters. This will provide additional convenience when using the stairs frequently.
The dimensions of the staircase hatch should be slightly larger than the opening in order to cover it.

How to choose?

When choosing a staircase to the attic, the first thing to start with is to decide where exactly it will be located and measure the dimensions of the hatch.

The height of the room is very important when choosing stairs. In a three-meter room, a staircase 250 centimeters high is unlikely to be useful. It should be borne in mind that a structure designed for a large height can often be shortened if the height of the room is lower. To do this, it is enough to dismantle one or several last steps.

However, it is advisable that attic stair structures do not exceed a height of three meters so that the risk of injury does not increase.

When determining the size and location of the opening, you should Special attention also pay attention to the overlap. An obstacle to installing a ladder in a certain place may, for example, be reinforced concrete slab or wooden beam. If the overlap allows, then it is definitely better to give preference to models with a large hatch. They will have wider steps and a less steep climb.

The dimensions of the hatch are indicated in the passport for the finished product. This document also indicates the maximum distance by which it flies beyond the hatch when it is opened and closed. This characteristic is especially important when placing stairs in small spaces.

When choosing a folding staircase made of metal, it is recommended to choose models with anti-slip pads on the steps. All details metal structures It is worth checking for corrosion protection, that is, they must be galvanized.

Wooden attic stair structures should be installed in areas that are not too dry or damp. This precaution will extend their service life. When inspecting a wooden structure, it is worth checking its integrity, dryness and absence of knots. It would be useful to clarify what protective mixtures the wood was treated with and what finishing coat used (most often paint or varnish).

Among modern models, you can choose both mechanical ones, which need to be unfolded by hand, and automatic ones with an electric drive.

When choosing, be sure to check the reliability of fasteners and mechanisms. Having finally decided on a particular model, you should find out the features of caring for it so that the entire structure remains in order for a long time.

The space between the ceiling and roof in private houses is occupied by attic space. It is used by the owners to store things and provides the opportunity to carry out inspections and repairs. inside roofing pie. A folding ladder installed to get into the attic can be made by yourself. Portable structures such as stepladders are not always convenient and reliable. Stationary option, which can be easily pulled out when necessary, and is folded most of the time, will become optimal model for a small space.

At installation location:
- external - 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 – attachments, stepladders;
- folding - sliding, folding, scissor, folding.

Monolithic structures ensure complete safety of climbing into the attic. But they 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. Optimal choice It is considered a folding staircase that takes up minimal space. This design is often mounted on a hatch; it is compact in size, and making it yourself will save money.

Features of folding structures

Transforming models have several design options from which you can choose the one that suits your home. When designing a product, you 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 model consisting of 2 parts will require a significant increase in the size of the attic hatch. Folding ladder lowered manually, using a weight for weighting, or automatically, using an electric drive.

Types 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 corrosion resistant. It is compact, functional, and will last for a long time, but it is difficult to make such a product with your own hands. The option of mounting on a hatch of a finished design is possible.

Scissor model made from metal parts. It folds like an accordion. Robust design with convenient steps, it has one drawback - over time, creaking appears at the joints. The problem can be prevented by timely lubrication of the mounting 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 string with card loops, and in the folded position folding model fixed on the wall.

Retractable ladder the attic consists of several sections, the upper part is firmly attached to the hatch, it is equal to the size of the lid. The remaining sections are connected special fittings and hinges. When unfolded, they form an even flight of stairs. It is not difficult to bring the product into working position due to its mobility. The difference between 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 using rollers from the outside along guides.

The structure for climbing into the attic should be installed in a place where it will not create interference, usually a hall or corridor. Sliding and folding staircase can be adjusted to fit standard sizes, which are designed taking into account safety requirements:

the angle of inclination of the structure is 65-75 degrees, a larger value will make use unsafe, and a smaller value will require a lot of space for placement;
the optimal width of the stairs is 65 cm;
recommended number of steps – 13-15 pieces;
the length of the structure should be about 3.5 m; as it increases, it loses rigidity and strength, and the processes of lowering and lifting become more complicated;
convenient distance between steps for movement – 19.3 cm;
a DIY staircase is designed 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 unobstructed passage and minimal heat loss.

Materials for production

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

A combination of materials will allow you to reduce the overall weight of the ladder attached to the hatch. Steps are made from lighter wood. Bars of hardwood about 2 cm thick are used. To connect the products, a metal or plastic fittings, the latter reduces friction of parts. In the folded position, the structure is attached to the hatch, which prevents spontaneous falling out.

Manufacturing technology of a simple folding design

If the hatch is located near the edge of the ceiling, then to climb it 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 ready product, it will take about two hours to transform it.

A simple folding ladder that is easy to make 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 attached with hinges to the top 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 made along the intended line.
Metal hinges are screwed to connect the sections. Pay attention to how the fittings are positioned. It should ensure that the lower part of the ladder folds under the upper one.
A block is fixed to the wall under the attic opening, to which the folding structure is attached.
To securely fix it in the folded position, a loop is screwed in near the cut 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, but the disadvantage is its open location.

Making a hatch

If a folding staircase is placed on the cover of the opening, it is not visible from the room and will not become a hindrance in the interior. Simple drawings will help you determine the size of the hatch and the product. Having measured the sides of the passage into the attic, they begin to assemble the hatch with their own hands.

It is necessary to prepare the following materials:

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

Two parts are cut from the block equal to length opening and two similar to its width (120x70 cm). Each edge of the block is cut to half the width. These areas are smeared with PVA glue and glued together into a rectangle. To maintain the exact diagonal, right-angled triangles of plywood, called gussets, are attached to the frame. After the glue has dried, the bars are additionally connected with self-tapping screws, and the scarves are removed. A prepared sheet of plywood is screwed to the workpiece. The design will be fitted 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 be opened.

Assembling the opening mechanism

Making a hatch opening mechanism with your own hands is a rather complex process; to make the task easier, you just need to purchase a finished product in a store.

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

In order not to make a mistake with the size of the hinges, they are initially cut out of cardboard. After fitting, they move on to working with metal.

The places for fastening according to the template are marked on the metal strip.
Holes are drilled for a bolt with a diameter of 10.
The parts are assembled and bolted. Using a small tool, the selected angle of fixation of the ladder is measured, and then the parts are moved apart to the required value.
The area on the metal is marked which, when lowered, is covered with a corner. This area is cut off. Having removed the excess, the parts are processed to give an aesthetic appearance.
The second mechanism must be identical to the one already manufactured. To ensure exact alignment of the holes, the parts are connected with a clamp and drilled.
Having inserted bolts into the second mechanism, it is aligned according to the sample, cutting off excess metal.
Ready-made opening mechanisms are installed on the hatch yourself . They will create a stop, fixing the folding structure at the desired angle.

The installation of a second hinge mechanism supporting the hatch in the middle will ensure uniform distribution of the load. 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, into which the second part rests. When the hatch is lowered, the hinge will move apart, taking part of the weight of the structure.

Wooden stairs, we do it ourselves

The easiest way is to make a structure from wood, 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 lengths of the sections are marked on the two boards used to make the bowstring. The marks should mirror each other, so before work the workpieces are connected with tape. Holes for hinges are drilled in the designated places, after which the boards are sawn. To make everything attractive wooden parts sanded and coated with two layers of varnish. Metal hinges are coated with primer and paint before installation.

For fastening the steps, holes 5 mm deep are cut from the inside of the bowstring. PVA glue is applied to them, and then fixed with self-tapping screws. Next stage– connecting three sections into a common structure using hinges. After checking the possibility of bending the parts, the ladder is secured to the hatch. The upper section of the product is fixed to it with anchors. The folding staircase to the attic is ready.

In contact with

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

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

Material for work

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

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

Tool:

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

Operating procedure

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

Assembling the hinge mechanism

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Manufacturing of sections

Calculation of the length of each section:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Assemble the individual plates into hinges using bolts.

Assembly of sections and installation of stairs

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

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

Then attach the lower short elbow and test the system.

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

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

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

Finished view of the staircase:

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

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

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